Debra Messing

Debra Lynn Messing (born August 15, 1968) is an American actress born in Brooklyn, New York, and raised in Rhode Island who has had a successful career in television and film spanning three decades. She earned a degree in theater from New York University's Tisch School of the Arts and began her career in small television and film roles before landing her breakthrough role as Grace Adler in the NBC sitcom 'Will & Grace' (1998-2006), which became a cultural phenomenon and is widely credited with bringing LGBTQ+ representation and humor to mainstream American television. Messing's portrayal of Grace—a witty, fashion-conscious lawyer—earned her a Golden Globe Award, multiple Emmy nominations, and made her a household name. Her chemistry with co-star Eric McCormack and her comedic timing became iconic aspects of the show's success. Beyond 'Will & Grace,' Messing has appeared in numerous films including 'Sitter' (1991), 'Starter Wife' (2007), and has guest-starred in other television series. She is also known for her political activism and advocacy for various social causes, particularly LGBTQ+ rights and gender equality. After 'Will & Grace' ended in 2006, Messing continued to work in television and film, including a revival of 'Will & Grace' that ran from 2017 to 2020. She has maintained her relevance in entertainment through continued work and public advocacy, remaining a beloved figure in popular culture, particularly within LGBTQ+ communities.