( ENSPIRE Entertainment ) Young Actor Finds Success Even After Accident
ENSPIRE Contributor: Logan Floyd
Gerald Isaac Waters is making the very best of a bad situation. The young actor recently landed a lead role in Netflix’s new film, “All Together Now,” which premieres on Aug. 28. He will also star in the Seattle Public Theater’s production of “Cost of Living;” set to hit the stage in 2021. Waters’ achievements come as he continues to deal with the challenges of his disability, which were the result of a terrible accident back in 2015 that left him confined to a wheelchair. Yet despite the obstacles placed in his way, Waters has proven resolute, continuing to make a name for himself as an actor and model.
A native of Tennessee, Waters’s beginnings as a small-town boy with big dreams saw him journeying to Los Angeles to make his mark on the acting world. Unfortunately, this dream seemed to be cut short after a terrible fall that left him paralyzed from the neck down. Yet while Waters’s doctors said that he would likely never regain movement, within the last year, Waters has defied all odds and managed to regain control over most of his upper body. As of this time, he continues to progress, pursuing physical recovery even as he still strives to make a name for himself as an actor.
Waters’ return to LA was, by his admission, and even more frightening tempt of fate than his first journey there. Even so, the young actor persevered, learning from fellow members of the disabled community while continuing to push himself to new heights.
“I was more determined than ever to prove not only to myself but those who put limits on me that I was going to succeed,” Waters said. “It’s an ongoing journey that comes with high highs and low lows, but honestly, I wouldn’t trade it for anything. It has given me purpose, focus, and a drive that gets me through each day.”
Waters’ bravery has more than paid off. He now has two big roles to add to his resume: Chad Fox in “All Together Now” and John in “Cost of Living.” Waters describes Chad as the “cool” kid, who is a devoted brother and a loyal friend. John is a graduate student suffering from cerebral palsy, a condition he attempts to prove he can face on his own without the aid of a caretaker. Even though the roles are quite different, Waters sees a bit of himself in each of them and is excited to bring the characters to life.
Waters’ incredible bravery in the face of terrible odds is a testament to his spirit, which after his accident, remains unbroken. It will be exciting to see where his budding career takes him next, and the strides he will continue to make for people with physical disabilities.
