Although Debra Messing is a relatively new name on the TV schedule, the talented star of “Will and Grace” has come a long way. After starring in a few forgettable movies and failed sitcoms, Messing has finally found a home on the critically acclaimed, groundbreaking show. Now in its third season, the show tackles issues that have never been seen on television before, and still manages to be funny. No wonder it’s a hit.
Messing was born in Brooklyn and raised in a suburb of Providence, Rhode Island. Although she always wanted to be an actress, her parents wouldn’t let her pursue a career in acting until she got a proper education. And that she did. She attended Brandeis University in Massachusetts, and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in theater arts. She spent her junior year abroad at the London Academy of Dramatic Arts. Upon graduation from Brandeis, she enrolled in New York University’s Graduate Acting program, and earned a master’s degree.
Messing then spent a few years navigating the New York theater scene, appearing in such plays as “Angels in America” and “The Importance of Being Earnest.” She then landed guest stints on shows such as “NYPD Blue” and “Seinfeld.” Finally, she got a starring role on the show “Ned and Stacy” opposite actor Thomas Haden Church.
On “Will and Grace,” Messing stars as slightly neurotic interior decorator Grace Adler, whose best friend and roommate Will Truman would make the perfect boyfriend – if only he wasn’t gay. Since its premiere two years ago, “Will and Grace” has been a runaway hit. The intelligent, funny writing, paired with the talented cast has earned the show much praise from critics, and was recently nominated for numerous Emmy awards, including best comedy. Messing was also nominated for a best actress award. The quality that sets the show apart is the writers’ willingness to tackle any issue, and still make it funny. Because of this, the show has also won several GLAAD media awards, and the cast constantly supports many gay and AIDS related charity organizations. In fact, the taping of their third season opener was a fundraising event for Amfar.
The relationship between Will and Grace is one that many people can relate to. According to Messing, “[Grace is] a little neurotic, and she knows Will is the only person who understands her and can help her put things in perspective. But Grace is also a lot of fun, and her humor helps balance Will's more serious personality. They're the kind of best friends who know each other's history and can finish each other's sentences.” Additionally, the cast members all have fun together in real life, which also adds to the show’s success.
Aside from starring in a hit TV show, Debra has also had roles in the films “A Walk in the Clouds,” “Celebrity,” and the recent TV miniseries “Jesus.” She currently lives in Los Angeles, and is wed to actor Daniel Zelman.
