Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

Debra Messing

Debra Lynn Messing (born August 15, 1968) is an American actress recognized primarily for her portrayal of Grace Adler, an interior designer, in the NBC sitcom Will & Grace (1998–2006; 2017–2020). Born in Brooklyn, New York, to a Jewish family, Messing graduated from New York University's Tisch School of the Arts and initially appeared in guest roles on series such as NYPD Blue and Seinfeld before landing the lead in Will & Grace, which propelled her to prominence. For her performance as Adler, Messing received six Primetime Emmy Award nominations for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series between 1999 and 2005, as well as seven Golden Globe Award nominations for Best Actress in a Television Series – Musical or Comedy. She has also starred in other television projects including The Starter Wife (2007–2008) and The Mysteries of Laura (2014–2016), and maintained an active stage career with Broadway appearances. Messing has engaged in political activism, vocally supporting Democratic causes and criticizing former President Donald Trump, notably calling in 2019 for media outlets to publicize lists of attendees at his rallies, which drew accusations of McCarthyism. More recently, following the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks on Israel, she has advocated for the Jewish state and against antisemitism, positions that have sparked backlash from some progressive circles amid the ensuing Gaza conflict.

Early life

Childhood and family influences

Debra Messing was born Debra Lynn Messing on August 15, 1968, in , , to Jewish parents Brian and Sandra (née Simons) Messing. Her father worked as a sales executive for a jewelry manufacturer, and her mother pursued multiple careers, including as a professional singer, banker, travel agent, and . When Messing was three years old, in 1971, the family relocated to , after her father received a job there. In East Greenwich, a predominantly non-Jewish community with very few Jewish families, Messing faced as a child, including ethnic slurs directed at her and discovering a painted on her grandfather's car. She has recounted learning the term "anti-Semitic" at an early age amid such incidents, which marked her formative experiences in the area. Messing's parents observed her early affinity for performance, noting her singing and dancing around the home by age three. They encouraged her acting interests but stressed the primacy of education, viewing it as the foremost priority and gift for their child, and advised completing college before committing to an entertainment career. This parental guidance influenced her to pursue higher education alongside her creative pursuits.

Education and early aspirations

Messing attended East Greenwich High School in , where she actively participated in theater productions, including the starring role of Wendy in the drama club's presentation of the musical in 1986. Her involvement in high school theater ignited an early interest in performance, leading her to pursue formal training rather than informal or accelerated paths into the industry. Initially drawn to musical theater, Messing applied to and was accepted into Syracuse University's program but opted instead for in , graduating summa cum laude with a in theater arts in 1990. This choice reflected a commitment to comprehensive academic grounding in the discipline, prioritizing skill development through structured coursework over specialized conservatory entry. She then advanced her training at New York University's Tisch School of the Arts, completing the elite Acting Program and earning a degree in 1993. Following graduation, Messing honed her craft through engagements in the early 1990s, including understudy roles for productions, which provided essential practical experience in ensemble work and character immersion without relying on prior connections. This progression underscored a methodical approach to establishing professional competence via intensive education and incremental stage exposure.

Acting career

Theater beginnings and initial television roles

Messing's entry into professional theater followed her completion of the MFA program at New York University's Tisch School of the Arts, where she received classical training emphasizing stage performance. In the early 1990s, she took on roles in productions, which served as foundational experiences amid the competitive theater scene. By 1997, she appeared in the off-Broadway premiere of Collected Stories at the Manhattan Theater Club, portraying a character in ' drama exploring literary mentorship and ethics. These theater engagements built her versatility in dramatic works but offered limited visibility compared to commercial television. Her initial forays into television began with the recurring role of Daisy Snow on the Another World from 1994 to 1995, marking her debut in daytime drama. She followed this with appearances as Officer Dana Abandando in multiple episodes of during 1994 and 1995, a role that provided her first significant exposure on a primetime series. Messing guest-starred as Beth Lukner, Jerry Seinfeld's brief romantic interest, in the Seinfeld episodes "The Wait Out" (aired May 9, 1996) and "The Yada Yada" (aired April 24, 1997), episodes that highlighted her comedic timing in ensemble settings. In film, she secured a supporting part as Betty Sutton, the unfaithful wife of the protagonist played by , in the 1995 romantic drama , directed by ; the film depicted post-World War II tensions but confined her to a minor, unsympathetic characterization. These pre-1998 credits, primarily guest spots and secondary roles, underscored the hurdles of transitioning from theater to screen, where opportunities for emerging actors often involved typecast or fleeting parts in established shows and productions.

Breakthrough with Will & Grace

Debra Messing landed the role of , a neurotic Jewish interior designer and straight best friend to gay lawyer , in NBC's sitcom , which premiered on September 21, 1998. She was the only actress considered for the part, auditioning directly at director ' home after producers sought a performer who could embody the character's vulnerability and humor without preconceived notions from prior fame. This casting decision propelled Messing from supporting roles to lead status, as the series' focus on their platonic bond provided a platform for her comedic timing and emotional range. The original run spanned eight seasons through May 18, 2006, followed by a three-season from 2017 to 2020, amassing 210 episodes. Averaging nearly 15 million viewers per episode in its initial airing, the show ranked in Nielsen's top 20 for much of its tenure and held the title of highest-rated among adults 18-49 from to 2005, reflecting broad appeal driven by sharp writing and ensemble chemistry. Messing's portrayal earned her the 2003 Primetime Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Series, underscoring her central contribution to the series' 16 Emmy wins overall, including for Outstanding Series in 2000. Messing shaped Grace's character by advocating for explicit Jewish elements, drawing from her own upbringing to depict a proud, culturally specific rather than a generic , which infused authenticity into storylines involving family dynamics and holidays. She influenced scripts to highlight these traits, avoiding overreliance on clichés while grounding the role in personal experiences of and . On set, dynamics emphasized collaborative improvisation under Burrows' guidance, though Messing later described emotionally taxing scenes—like the Season 5 confrontation where Grace argues with Will over her ex-boyfriend Leo, derailing their surrogacy plans—as particularly grueling, with live audiences falling silent amid the raw intensity. The sustained ratings and accolades from this role causally elevated Messing's career, shifting her trajectory toward sustained prominence in network television by demonstrating her ability to anchor a culturally impactful ensemble.

Subsequent television and film work

Following the end of the original Will & Grace run in 2006, Messing took the lead role of Molly Kagan, the ex-wife of a Hollywood mogul navigating independence, in the USA Network miniseries The Starter Wife (2007), which was followed by a 10-episode series in 2008 averaging 2.4 million viewers. In 2008, she shifted to film with supporting roles in The Women, an all-female ensemble remake grossing $26.9 million domestically, and Nothing Like the Holidays, a family comedy that earned $7.5 million in the United States. These projects marked a diversification from sitcom leads to ensemble features, though both films achieved modest box office returns relative to broader industry hits. Messing returned to leading television roles with the NBC musical drama Smash (2012–2013), portraying Julia Houston, a songwriter developing a musical about ; the first season averaged 6.74 million viewers amid mixed critical reception for its behind-the-scenes focus. She then starred as Laura Diamond, a divorced balancing work and family, in the procedural comedy-drama The Mysteries of Laura (2014–2016) on , which premiered to 11.3 million viewers and sustained averages of 7–8 million across its run, reflecting solid but not breakout network performance. Throughout this period, Messing incorporated voice acting, including the role of Giselle in the animated film Open Season (2006), and made guest appearances on series such as Royal Pains, signaling a transition toward varied supporting and episodic work as lead opportunities in traditional broadcast TV evolved with rising competition from cable and streaming platforms. This phase highlighted her adaptability, though empirical metrics like viewership and earnings indicated a stabilization rather than expansion beyond her sitcom peak.

Recent projects and stage returns

The revival of Will & Grace concluded its third and final season on April 23, 2020, with an 18-episode run that brought the total revival episodes to 52, following the original series' end in 2006. In 2020, Messing co-launched the The Dissenters with , featuring interviews with activists and public figures on topics including political engagement and social issues; the series has produced over 20 episodes, emphasizing personal journeys toward purpose and dissent. Messing starred in the off-Broadway world premiere of Robert O'Hara's play Shit. Meet. Fan., an adaptation of the film Perfect Strangers, alongside and , with announcements confirming her involvement in August 2024. On June 1, 2025, she co-hosted the 69th Annual Drama Desk Awards at NYU Skirball Center with , presenting honors for , , and productions. In October 2025, Messing participated in TLVFest, the International LGBTQ+ Film Festival, as a guest of honor, appearing in a closing ceremony conversation with festival director Yair Hochner about her career; the event ran from October 23, screening 63 films from 35 countries. Messing served as on the 2025 documentary October 8, which examines events following the October 7, 2023, attacks in .

Personal life

Marriages and family

Messing met screenwriter and producer while both were students at , and the couple married on September 3, 2000. They welcomed one son, Roman Walker Zelman, born on April 7, 2004, in , weighing 5 pounds 14 ounces. Messing and Zelman separated in early 2012, with Messing filing for in June of that year on grounds of ; the marriage was officially dissolved by a Los Angeles judge on March 1, 2016. The proceedings were described as amicable, with no public disputes over custody or finances detailed in court records, and the former couple has since emphasized cooperative co-parenting of their son. After separating from Zelman, Messing began a relationship with actor , her co-star on the series Smash, which lasted from late 2011 until October 2014. The pair parted as friends, with no children or further commitments from the relationship. As of 2025, Messing has not remarried and is single.

Political views and activism

Alignment with liberal causes

Messing has publicly endorsed Democratic presidential candidates, including campaigning for during the 2016 election cycle by speaking at a women's roundtable discussion in , on July 20, 2016, where she emphasized Clinton's qualifications and the importance of women's leadership. She also participated in the cast reunion video for released on September 26, 2016, which satirized Donald Trump's candidacy and highlighted contrasts with Clinton, aligning with broader opposition to Trump prior to 2019. In January 2017, Messing attended the Women's March on Washington, D.C., describing her motivation as defending civil rights and reproductive freedom, drawing from her earlier college-era protests on similar issues; she traveled by bus from a rally to join the event, which drew hundreds of thousands protesting the incoming administration. Messing has advocated for , including support for access, as evidenced by her 2022 discussions on educating her son about reproductive issues in light of challenges, and her backing of causes like the through affiliations with groups such as the ERA Coalition. On gun control, she joined the NoRA coalition in April 2018 to oppose influence by targeting politicians accepting NRA funds, and promoted gun safety awareness following incidents like the . Her public statements have also included calls for environmental protections, such as using to highlight climate-related concerns amid .

Advocacy for free speech in Hollywood

Messing and her Will & Grace co-star requested in August that media outlets publish the names of attendees at a Beverly Hills fundraiser for 's re-election campaign. The stated intent was to identify participants so that "all the amazing survivors of , Parkland students, & families" could be privately invited to the for a public acknowledgment of their advocacy. The call prompted widespread criticism for resembling McCarthy-era tactics, with detractors arguing it aimed to expose and potentially ostracize Trump supporters in an industry where conservative views are underrepresented. In response to the backlash, Messing and McCormack issued a joint clarification on September 4, 2019, emphasizing their opposition to punitive measures: "I absolutely do not support blacklists or of any kind, as anyone who knows me would attest." This position aligned with broader concerns over ideological conformity in , where empirical patterns of and exclusion of non-progressive voices have been documented, limiting substantive debate and fostering echo chambers that hinder artistic innovation. Messing later reflected on the professional repercussions of her public stances in an August 2020 interview, revealing that "there were some job offers that were almost closed, and then there was some hesitation about me because of my outspokenness politically." She framed such incidents as symptomatic of an entertainment sector prone to penalizing deviation from prevailing norms, even among those aligned with dominant liberal positions, thereby illustrating causal mechanisms where fear of backlash suppresses diverse expression and reinforces uniformity. This personal experience reinforced her advocacy for protecting , countering narratives that portray as inherently tolerant of variance in political thought.

Stance on antisemitism and Israel

Following the Hamas attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023, Messing publicly condemned the violence on social media within hours, describing the acts as murder, rape, beheading, burning, bombing, and kidnapping of innocent civilians. She participated as a speaker at the March for Israel rally in Washington, D.C., on November 14, 2023, which drew an estimated 300,000 attendees, where she declared the attacks "madness" and "terrorism" while affirming Jewish resilience: "We will win. We always have." Messing has repeatedly highlighted the silence from peers amid rising antisemitic incidents, stating in a 2025 interview that she was "devastated" by the industry's muted response to the attacks and subsequent global surge, which she linked to a broader failure to acknowledge Jewish vulnerability. This stance draws from her personal experiences with , including childhood incidents in where, as one of three Jewish students in her school, she and her family faced targeted harassment such as gunfire shattering their driveway lights and verbal abuse. She has invoked survivor testimonies to underscore ongoing threats, including a 2020 episode featuring Auschwitz survivor Edith Eva Eger, a 93-year-old , to discuss 's persistence and critique policies perceived as enabling it. In 2025, Messing continued advocacy through media appearances and events, executive producing documentaries like Primal Fear (2024) and October 8 (2025) that document antisemitic eruptions on U.S. campuses and social media following October 7. She appeared at the Tel Aviv International LGBTQ+ Film Festival (TLVFest) in October 2025, receiving a lifetime achievement award for her support of Israel and the LGBTQ+ community post-attacks, and engaged in discussions on her career alongside pro-Israel solidarity. Messing has emphasized refusing to let global attention shift from Israeli hostages, urging sustained focus on their plight during the 2023 march.

Controversies

2019 Emmys open letter and Trump-related backlash

In August 2019, Debra Messing publicly called for media outlets to publish the names of attendees at a planned Beverly Hills fundraiser for President scheduled for September 8, 2019. Responding to a Reporter article about the event, Messing tweeted on August 30: "@TheWrap @THR please print a list of all attendees please. The public has a ," framing the request as a push for transparency in amid perceptions of conservative attendees concealing their support. Her co-star echoed the sentiment in a separate , urging outlets to "start doing their job: print the names of celebrities attending @realDonaldTrump fundraiser," which amplified accusations of seeking to expose and potentially shame supporters in the industry. records already make donor contributions public, but the demand focused on event attendees, raising questions about intent versus routine disclosure. President responded on September 1, 2019, via , criticizing Messing and McCormack for what he described as "weak and, as usual, not very smart" tactics, linking it to broader bias against his supporters. On September 5, escalated, tweeting: "Bad 'actress' Debra The Mess Messing is in hot water. She wants to create a 'Blacklist' of Trump supporters, & is being accused of ism. Will allow a McCarthy style Racist to continue?" Messing clarified her position the same day, stating she opposed and supported open disclosure of political affiliations, as she herself donated publicly to without shame: "I am proud to be a donor when I contribute to a campaign. I am happy to be listed when I attend a fundraiser. I am NOT ashamed of supporting a ." She emphasized the request aimed at countering alleged secrecy among conservative figures, not harassment. The incident drew polarized media reactions, with conservative outlets portraying it as evidence of Hollywood elitism and intolerance toward dissenting views, highlighting the irony of actors demanding lists for potential social pressure while decrying similar scrutiny of their own politics. Left-leaning coverage, including from and Deadline, critiqued the tweet as divisive and counterproductive to anti-Trump unity, potentially alienating moderate voters ahead of the 2020 election, though some defended it as legitimate on public events. No attendee list was published by requested outlets, and the fundraiser proceeded without reported disruptions, but the exchange fueled online debates about —conservatives noting Hollywood's history of right-leaning figures, while Messing's supporters argued it exposed uneven standards. No immediate professional penalties ensued from or Emmy organizers, despite the timing near the September 22, , Emmys where was nominated.

Impact on professional opportunities and public feuds

Messing has stated that her vocal opposition to certain political figures and for marginalized groups resulted in professional setbacks, including hesitations on job offers that were nearly finalized. In an August 2020 , she described instances where "there was some hesitation about me being outspoken," linking this directly to industry decisions by private entities prioritizing brand alignment over her . She emphasized that such choices, while lawful, reflected broader patterns of in entertainment, yet affirmed her resolve to continue expressing views without compromise. The revival of , which concluded in April 2020 after three seasons, showed no documented causal link to Messing's political positions as a factor in non-renewal; production dynamics, including her contract stipulations ensuring a proper finale, were cited by creators as primary influences. Speculation tying her later free speech advocacy to internal tensions remains unsubstantiated, with the series' explicitly anti-Trump episodes aligning with her initial public stances during its run. Public feuds intensified scrutiny, notably Messing's protracted exchanges with , whom she accused of downplaying risks associated with tolerance for -era policies, including family separations at the border. This conflict, rooted in Sarandon's 2016 election comments suggesting potential progressive gains under , reignited in December 2023 when Messing highlighted Sarandon's association with her former Will & Grace co-star at a theater event, framing it as inconsistent with anti- solidarity. Such disputes underscored Messing's push for ideological consistency in , contrasting Sarandon's defense of diverse voter motivations. Critical media narratives have portrayed Messing's defense of free speech for supporters and her pro-Israel positions as personal decline, exemplified by the October 2025 podcast episode "The Unraveling of Debra Messing and 'Liberal Zionism'" on A Bit Fruity, which attributes her shifts to ideological homelessness amid post-October 7, 2023, tensions. Messing has rebutted these as misrepresentations, positioning her stances as principled resistance to , evidenced by her The Dissenters, which profiles activists challenging orthodoxy. By 2024 and 2025, Messing demonstrated career continuity, co-hosting the Drama Desk Awards on June 1, 2025, and headlining the digital series And They're Jewish, alongside sustaining The Dissenters with episodes featuring figures like . These developments empirically challenge narratives of lasting professional ostracism, suggesting that targeted backlash failed to halt her output in independent and live formats.

Reception and legacy

Critical evaluations of performances

Messing's portrayal of Grace Adler in Will & Grace (1998–2006, revived 2017–2020) earned widespread acclaim for her comedic timing and ability to convey relatable neuroses through exaggerated physicality and vocal inflections, with critics describing the series as "one of the sharpest, well-acted sitcoms" featuring her standout contributions. Reviewers highlighted her skill in blending vulnerability with humor, noting in later seasons her "brilliant" dramatic turns amid comedic arcs. Some observers drew parallels to Lucille Ball's physical comedy style due to Messing's red-haired persona and expressive mannerisms, particularly in tribute episodes mimicking I Love Lucy antics. Post-Will & Grace, critics noted challenges with typecasting, as Messing's subsequent roles often echoed Grace's quirky, high-strung archetype, leading to perceptions of limited range in non-comedic parts; audience feedback in revival discussions criticized her as "cosplaying as Grace," suggesting stagnation in character differentiation. Her lead in the procedural The Mysteries of Laura (2014–2016) drew mixed-to-negative reviews, faulted for formulaic plotting, unfunny domestic comedy, and tonal inconsistency, with outlets deeming it a "terrible cop show" and "bad, bad show" despite Messing's energetic performance. In film, Messing has been a solid supporting player but garnered limited acclaim as a lead, with projects like (2005) praised for her appealing chemistry amid "schlock" scripting, yet overall aggregates for her key roles hover around 60-70%, reflecting competent but unremarkable dramatic ventures such as (2002) and higher-rated outliers like (2018) at 93%. Critics consensus positions her as a reliable television comedian effective in ensemble formats but less versatile in cinematic demands requiring broader emotional depth.

Broader cultural and political influence

Messing's portrayal of in (1998–2006, revived 2017–2020) contributed to increased mainstream visibility for gay characters, as the series was the first U.S. prime-time to feature openly gay leads, helping normalize LGBTQ+ representation prior to the 2015 decision legalizing same-sex marriage nationwide. However, the show's humor has faced retrospective criticism for reinforcing stereotypes, particularly in the depiction of as embodying exaggerated, flamboyant traits that some viewed as limiting rather than expansive portrayals of gay life. Politically, Messing's evolution from a Hollywood liberal icon to a vocal critic of industry conformity underscores the sector's ideological uniformity, where dissent on issues like or free speech has led to professional repercussions, as she has publicly stated in interviews about lost opportunities. Through her 2020-launched The Dissenters, co-hosted with , she amplified voices challenging prevailing narratives across fashion, justice, and politics, including episodes addressing 's personal and societal impacts, thereby fostering discussions on amid rising global incidents. By 2025, Messing's sustained public presence—evidenced by appearances at events like the International LGBTQ+ Film Festival in October and the Film Festival in June, alongside executive producing the documentary October 8 on campus —demonstrates ongoing relevance tied to advocacy rather than major acting roles, positioning her trajectory as an empirical in the costs of diverging from norms.

References

  1. [1]
    Debra Messing - IMDb
    FAQ ; How old is Debra Messing? 56 years old ; When was Debra Messing born? August 15, 1968 ; Where was Debra Messing born? Brooklyn, New York City, New York, USA.Biography · Awards · Filmography · 3 of 708Missing: notable | Show results with:notable
  2. [2]
    Debra Messing Biography, Celebrity Facts and Awards - TV Guide
    Birth Name:Debra Lynn Messing ; Birth Place:Brooklyn, New York, United States ; Profession Actress, Soundtrack, Producer ...Missing: notable | Show results with:notable
  3. [3]
    Debra Messing Biography - Newsmakers Cumulation
    Actress. Born August 15, 1968, in Brooklyn, NY; daughter of Brian (a sales executive) and Sandy Messing; married Daniel Zelman (a screenwriter and actor), ...
  4. [4]
    Debra Messing | Television Academy
    Debra Messing is an American actress. After graduating from New York University's Tisch School of the Arts, Messing received short-lived roles on television ...Missing: profession notable
  5. [5]
    Debra Messing - Awards - IMDb
    Primetime Emmy Awards. The Starter Wife (2007). 2007 Nominee Primetime Emmy ... 2019 Nominee Golden Globe. Best Performance by an Actress in a Television ...
  6. [6]
    Debra Messing | Keynote Speaker | AAE Speakers Bureau
    Jul 29, 2025 · For her portrayal of Grace Adler, she received seven Golden Globe Award nominations and five Primetime Emmy Award nominations, winning the ...
  7. [7]
    Trump attacks actress Debra Messing after she pushed to out his ...
    Sep 5, 2019 · President Donald Trump on Thursday amplified accusations of McCarthyism leveled at actress Debra Messing after the “Will & Grace” star made a public plea for a ...
  8. [8]
    Debra Messing Sparks Backlash Over Israel Statements - Newsweek
    Nov 15, 2023 · Debra Messing faced with criticism across social media over comments she made at Tuesday's rally in support of Israel in Washington, DC.
  9. [9]
    My inconvenient Jewish fear | Debra Messing | The Times of Israel
    Jul 21, 2025 · I've spoken out, marched, signed petitions, testified before Congress, and shown up for communities facing injustice, violence, and inequity, ...
  10. [10]
    Debra Messing - Biography - IMDb
    Family · Spouse. Daniel Zelman(September 3, 2000 - March 1, 2016) (divorced, 1 child) · Children. Roman Walker Zelman · Parents. Sandy Messing · Brian Messing.
  11. [11]
    Debra Messing Biography
    Debra Messing was born into a Jewish family in the New York City borough of Brooklyn on August 15, 1968. When she was three she moved with her parent and her ...Missing: notable | Show results with:notable
  12. [12]
    Debra Messing: Glitter and Grace - The New York Times
    Nov 18, 2002 · He moved the family to East Greenwich, R.I. from Brooklyn when Ms. Messing was three years old. Advertisement.Missing: relocation | Show results with:relocation
  13. [13]
    https://www.wsj.com/real-estate/debra-messing-alto-knights-c0b4bd52
  14. [14]
    Debra Messing Shares Harrowing Antisemitic Incident from Her ...
    May 18, 2023 · Jewish actress Debra Messing opened up about experiencing antisemitism as a child. The story she shared was so harrowing that many of the fellow attendees ...Missing: bullying | Show results with:bullying
  15. [15]
    Not a Sitcom: Debra Messing on the 'Ugly Reality' of Being Jewish in ...
    Nov 9, 2015 · “The word anti-Semitic was a grown-up word that I learned early,” she said, relating her experiences growing up in a small town in Rhode Island.
  16. [16]
    Debra Messing Reflects on Roles: 'Angels in America' to 'Will & Grace'
    Oct 6, 2017 · Debra Messing was 3 years old when her parents first noticed her singing and dancing around their Rhode Island home.Missing: encouragement education
  17. [17]
    Debra Messing Quotes - BrainyQuote
    My parents always made education and school the number one priority. They believed that an education is the best gift you can give to your child. Share this ...
  18. [18]
    Debra Messing, of East Greenwich, turns 49 - The Providence Journal
    Aug 15, 2017 · Debra Messing, who portrayed Wendy in the East Greenwich High School drama club's presentation of the musical "Peter Pan" in 1986, turns 49 ...Missing: Brandeis | Show results with:Brandeis
  19. [19]
    Debra Messing On Stage | New York Theatre Guide
    After moving to Rhode Island, Messing attended East Greenwich High School and would later go on to study at Brandeis University in Waltham, Massachusetts ...Missing: relocation | Show results with:relocation
  20. [20]
    Emmys 2012: Debra Messing Aims to Turn 'Smash' Into 'Must-See ...
    Jun 19, 2012 · So, despite applying to and being accepted at Syracuse University's musical theater program, she begrudgingly headed off to Brandeis University.
  21. [21]
    Debra Messing Talks About the Past, Present, and Future
    Apr 12, 2016 · Debra Messing is an Emmy Award and Screen Actors Guild Award Winner who graduated from the NYU Tisch Grad Acting Program in 1993. Her best known ...Missing: Brandeis | Show results with:Brandeis
  22. [22]
    Debra Messing - TV Guide
    Seinfeld as Beth Lukner. Seinfeld · McHale's Navy as Carpenter. McHale's ... NYPD Blue as Dana Abandando. NYPD Blue · Another World as Daisy. Another World ...
  23. [23]
    The Stunning Transformation Of Debra Messing - The List
    Jul 16, 2021 · Debra Messing was born in 1968 and grew up in the town of East Greenwich in a rural environment. "I grew up next to a farm in Rhode Island ...
  24. [24]
    Debra Messing News & Biography - Empire Magazine
    In 1990, after graduating summa cum laude from Brandeis University with a bachelor's degree ... In 1995, Messing made her film debut in Alfonso Arau's A ...Missing: NYU | Show results with:NYU
  25. [25]
    A Walk in the Clouds (1995) - Full cast & crew - IMDb
    Pedro Aragon, Jr. (as Freddy Rodriguez). Debra Messing · Debra Messing · Betty Sutton · Febronio Covarrubias · Febronio Covarrubias · Jose Manuel.
  26. [26]
    A Walk in the Clouds - Rotten Tomatoes
    Rating 46% (28) When soldier Paul Sutton (Keanu Reeves) is on his way home after World War II, he realizes that he barely knows his young wife, Betty (Debra Messing).
  27. [27]
    'Will & Grace' Cocreators Reveal Debra Messing's Wild Audition ...
    Jun 6, 2023 · Debra Messing, who auditioned for Grace Adler at director Jimmy Burrows' house, was told she was the only one being seen for the role.
  28. [28]
    Why 'Will & Grace' Is Returning: NBC Has Nearly 15 Million Reasons
    Jan 19, 2017 · We know, pretty specific. But that's the exact number of total viewers each episode of “Will & Grace” received, on average, from 1998-2006.
  29. [29]
    Debra Messing accepts the Emmy for Lead Actress in a Comedy
    Oct 15, 2015 · Debra Messing accepts the Emmy for Lead Actress in a Comedy Series for Will and Grace at the 55th Emmy Awards. Watch More.
  30. [30]
    Debra Messing and Mandana Dayani: Jewish Champions
    Jun 1, 2023 · Her father, Brian, was a former vice president of the Jewish Federation of Rhode Island (JFRI), as well as president of Temple Sinai in Cranston ...Missing: occupations | Show results with:occupations
  31. [31]
    Debra Messing Recalls Her Most 'Painful' Scene on 'Will & Grace'
    Jun 13, 2023 · The Emmy-winning actress, who starred as Grace Adler on the series, went on to say at the Tribeca Film Festival event that she ultimately was “ ...<|separator|>
  32. [32]
    USA Divorces Starter Wife - TV Guide
    Feb 13, 2009 · The series, though, only attracted an average of 2.4 million viewers over its 10-episode run. But this breakup seems amicable. "The Starter Wife ...
  33. [33]
    The Women (2008) - IMDb
    Rating 5/10 (24,064) Box office · Budget. $16,000,000 (estimated) · Gross US & Canada. $26,902,075 · Opening weekend US & Canada. $10,115,210; Sep 14, 2008 · Gross worldwide.Full cast & crew · Theatrical Trailer · Trivia · Parents guide
  34. [34]
    Nothing Like the Holidays (2008) - IMDb
    Rating 6.1/10 (4,925) Box office · Gross US & Canada. $7,503,736 · Opening weekend US & Canada. $3,531,664; Dec 14, 2008 · Gross worldwide. $7,519,490.
  35. [35]
    Domestic Box Office For 2008
    The Women, -, -, -, $26,902,075, 2,995, $26,902,075, Sep 12, Picturehouse, false. 106, One Missed Call, -, -, -, $26,890,041, 2,240, $26,890,041, Jan 4, Warner ...
  36. [36]
    Smash: Season Two Ratings - TV Series Finale
    May 30, 2013 · Reference point: The first season's 15 episodes averaged a 2.3 rating in the 18-49 demographic with 6.74 million total viewers.
  37. [37]
    Ratings: Mysteries Of Laura Cops Big Numbers Leading Out Of ...
    which TVLine readers gave an average grade of "C+" – opened with 11.3 mil and a 2.3, then slipped to 9 ...
  38. [38]
    "The Mysteries of Laura" Retains 92% of the Prior Week's Rating in ...
    Wednesday Primetime Results: · "The Mysteries of Laura" (1.2/4 in 18-49, 7.5 million viewers overall from 8-9 p.m. ET) retained 92% of the prior week's 1.3 ...
  39. [39]
    Debra Messing — The Movie Database (TMDB)
    Messing's film work includes A Walk in the Clouds (1995), Jesus (1999), The Mothman Prophecies (2002), Hollywood Ending (2002), Along Came Polly (2004), The ...
  40. [40]
    Will and Grace Ending (Again) After Third Revival Season in 2020
    Jul 25, 2019 · Will and Grace Ending (Again) After Third Revival Season in 2020 · The final season will be 18 episodes, making the revival 52 episodes long.
  41. [41]
    'Will & Grace' Revival's Series Finale, Explained
    Apr 23, 2020 · This time, not only did Kohan and Mutchnick give their starring duo a happier and more evolved ending, but they also reunited Karen (Megan ...
  42. [42]
    the DISSENTERS The Dissenters is a podcast by Debra Messing ...
    The Dissenters is a podcast launched by Debra Messing and Mandana Dayani. Join them as they interview their heroes and accidental activists.the DISSENTERS · About · Episodes · Contact
  43. [43]
    The Dissenters with Debra Messing and Mandana Dayani - Podcast
    Rating 4.0 (1,049) Debra Messing and Mandana Dayani meet 20 of their heroes. Each episode, they learn about the journeys each of these Dissenters took to find their purpose.
  44. [44]
    Garret Dillahunt, Billy Magnussen & Debra Messing To Head Off ...
    Aug 27, 2024 · Garret Dillahunt, Billy Magnussen & Debra Messing To Head Off-Broadway Production Of New Robert O'Hara Play 'Sh*t. Meet. Fan.' By Greg Evans ...Missing: 2020-2025 | Show results with:2020-2025
  45. [45]
    2025 Drama Desk Award winners revealed - Broadway News
    Jun 1, 2025 · The 2025 Drama Desk Awards ceremony was held on June 1 at NYU's Skirball Center. Debra Messing and Tituss Burgess hosted the event, ...
  46. [46]
    Tituss Burgess and Debra Messing to host 2025 Drama Desk Awards
    Apr 24, 2025 · A pair of hosts has been revealed for the 2025 Drama Desk Awards ceremony. Tituss Burgess and Debra Messing will emcee the previously announced ...
  47. [47]
    https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/culture/article-871067
  48. [48]
    In Conversation with Debra Messing and the Closing Ceremony
    At the closing ceremony, Debra Messing will be in conversation with Yair Hochner, founder and director of TLVFest, discussing her extensive career, her ...Missing: 2025 | Show results with:2025
  49. [49]
    Debra Messing has produced an extraordinary documentary called ...
    Mar 16, 2025 · 21K likes, 536 comments - missmayim on March 16, 2025: "Debra Messing has produced an extraordinary documentary called October 8, ...Missing: projects 2020-2025
  50. [50]
    Will and Grace Cast: Real-Life Couples and Relationships
    Nov 23, 2024 · Debra Messing(Grace Adler) met her husband, screenwriter and actor Daniel Zelman, in 1990 on the first day that they attended New York ...
  51. [51]
    Debra Messing gives birth to boy - The Today Show
    Apr 8, 2004 · Debra Messing, co-star of the NBC sitcom, gave birth to a son Wednesday. The baby weighed 5 pounds and 14 ounces and was 19 inches long, ...
  52. [52]
    Debra Messing picks out name for baby - UPI.com
    Apr 21, 2004 · ... son Roman Walker Zelman, US Weekly reports. Messing gave birth to the 5-pound, 14-ounce boy in Los Angeles April 7. She and her husband ...
  53. [53]
    Judge ends Debra Messing's marriage to writer-producer - CBS News
    Mar 3, 2016 · Debra Messing and her husband are officially divorced. Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Mark Juhas entered a divorce judgment on Tuesday, more ...
  54. [54]
    Debra Messing Is Officially Divorced From Daniel Zelman - E! News
    Mar 2, 2016 · E! News has learned that the Mysteries of Laura actress' divorce from her former husband Daniel Zelman became official Tuesday.
  55. [55]
    Debra Messing Files for Divorce
    Jun 14, 2012 · After nearly twelve years of marriage Debra Messing and husband Daniel Zelman are calling it quits. Messing and Zelman say the split is amicable.Missing: details | Show results with:details
  56. [56]
    Debra Messing: 5 Things You Didn't Know About the Actress
    Oct 10, 2023 · She is happily divorced. Although her marriage to screenwriter Daniel Zelman ended in 2016, Messing says they're still very much part of each ...<|separator|>
  57. [57]
    Debra Messing and Will Chase split up after sparking during 'Smash'
    Oct 27, 2014 · “Debra Messing and Will Chase have ended their two and a half year relationship, but remain close friends,” her rep's office said in a statement ...Missing: 2016-2019 | Show results with:2016-2019
  58. [58]
    Meet the Real-Life Loves of the 'Will & Grace' Cast - People.com
    Sep 23, 2025 · After her marriage to Zelman, Messing dated her Smash costar Will Chase from 2011 to 2014. 03 of 07. Megan Mullally and Nick Offerman.
  59. [59]
    Debra Messing dating history
    Debra Messing was previously married to Daniel Zelman (2000 - 2016). Debra Messing has been in a relationship with Will Chase (2011 - 2014).
  60. [60]
    Debra Messing 2025 - Taddlr
    She made her 15 million dollar fortune with Will & Grace. The actress is currently single, her starsign is Leo and she is now 57 years of age.
  61. [61]
    Actress Debra Messing stumps for Hillary Clinton, speaks at ...
    Jul 20, 2016 · ABINGTON >> They may have come for different reasons, but the women who showed up for the Montgomery County Women's Roundtable discussion at ...Missing: endorsement | Show results with:endorsement
  62. [62]
    'Will & Grace' Reunion Election Video - The Hollywood Reporter
    Sep 26, 2016 · 'Will & Grace' Cast Tackles Donald Trump, Hillary Clinton and Brangelina for Election-Themed Reunion. The video, released Monday, marks their ...Missing: endorsement | Show results with:endorsement
  63. [63]
    Debra Messing: Why I'm Going to the Women's March on ...
    Jan 20, 2017 · "All we have to do is to not be armchair activists," says the actress as she heads from a New York rally to D.C. by bus for the big Saturday ...Missing: participation | Show results with:participation
  64. [64]
    https://www.vanityfair.com/style/2017/01/debra-messing-carrie-brownstein-womens-march-on-washington
  65. [65]
    Debra Messing explains how she talks to her son, 18, about abortion ...
    Aug 11, 2022 · '13: The Musical' star Debra Messing is opening up about how she holds space with her teenage son about important topics that impact women.
  66. [66]
    Debra Messing - The Body Agency Collective
    Messing supports the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), Moms Demand Action, ERA Coalition, ACLU, ADL, The Sheldrick Wildlife Trust and Marley's Mutts, amongst many ...
  67. [67]
    Celebrities, Activists Launch NoRA to Take on the NRA | TIME
    Apr 20, 2018 · They say their goal is expose public servants who have been stymying gun control legislation after taking money from the NRA.
  68. [68]
    Debra Messing under fire for 'gun safety selfie' in wake of UCLA ...
    Jun 2, 2016 · Actress Debra Messing came under fire on Wednesday on after posting a selfie that was meant to bring awareness to gun violence in America ...<|separator|>
  69. [69]
    JTA Twitter 50: Debra Messing - Jewish Telegraphic Agency
    Dec 15, 2018 · Messing uses her popular Twitter feed to advocate for progressive causes (like abortion rights, gun restrictions and environmental protections)Missing: control | Show results with:control
  70. [70]
    'Will and Grace' stars angry over Hollywood Trump fundraiser
    Aug 31, 2019 · ... blacklist participants from working in Hollywood. “Please print a list of all attendees please. The public has a right to know,” Debra Messing ...<|separator|>
  71. [71]
    Debra Messing, Eric McCormack address 'misinterpreted' comments ...
    Sep 4, 2019 · I absolutely do not support blacklists or discrimination of any kind, as anyone who knows me would attest.” It continued, “I'd simply like to ...
  72. [72]
    Debra Messing called for outing Trump supporters ... - NBC News
    Sep 5, 2019 · Trump slammed Messing after a tweet in which she demanded the names of attendees at an upcoming Beverly Hills fundraiser for him be made public.Missing: statements | Show results with:statements
  73. [73]
    'Will & Grace' Stars Debra Messing and Eric McCormack Are Being ...
    Sep 3, 2019 · On Twitter, people are calling the actors "fascists" for the list, which they felt was reminiscent of a "Hollywood blacklist."Missing: criticism conservative
  74. [74]
    Eric McCormack and Debra Messing tweets expose totalitarian ...
    Sep 5, 2019 · Eric McCormack and Debra Messing tweets expose totalitarian instincts of liberals · Subscribe now to The Washington Times.
  75. [75]
    Debra Messing on Getting Political, Losing Jobs and Paying No ...
    Aug 28, 2020 · Since then, she's become one of President Donald Trump's most vocal critics online. She's even been mean-tweeted by the commander in chief.Missing: controversies | Show results with:controversies
  76. [76]
    Debra Messing says she will never stop fighting against antisemitism
    Feb 7, 2025 · Debra Messing says she will never stop fighting against antisemitism: 'I don't think I've ever felt as proud of being a Jew' · 'Finding the light ...Missing: environmental | Show results with:environmental
  77. [77]
    Debra Messing on hostages: 'We cannot allow the world to move on'
    Nov 14, 2023 · Actress Debra Messing addresses an estimated 300,000 at the “March for Israel” rally in Washington, D.C., on Nov. 14, 2023. Source: Screenshot.
  78. [78]
    'We will win': Actress Debra Messing takes the stage at the March for ...
    Nov 14, 2023 · Actress Debra Messing spoke at the March for Israel in D.C. "This is madness. This is terrorism. But we will win. We always have," Messing said.
  79. [79]
    5 of Some of the Most Powerful Moments from the March for Israel ...
    Best known for her role on the sitcom Will & Grace, Jewish actress Debra Messing on Tuesday passionately advocated for Israel and Jewish people.
  80. [80]
    https://www.ynetnews.com/culture/article/r1ixu9frxg
  81. [81]
    Actress Debra Messing Talks About Facing Antisemitism, Hiding Her ...
    May 18, 2023 · Jewish actress Debra Messing spoke openly about her Jewish heritage and the antisemitism she and her family faced living in Rhode Island.
  82. [82]
    Debra Messing's new podcast antisemitism and Trump - The Forward
    Oct 19, 2020 · For Messing, antisemitism is bound up in her life story. Most people know her as Grace, the titular character she brought to life in NBC's ...Missing: bullying | Show results with:bullying<|separator|>
  83. [83]
    For Debra Messing, antisemitism never goes away, we simply fight it ...
    Oct 20, 2020 · On Thursday, October 15, they spoke with Dr. Edith Eva Eger, a 93-year-old Holocaust survivor and clinical psychologist. The topic? Antisemitism ...
  84. [84]
    'Primal Fear': Debra Messing To Executive Produce Documentary ...
    Feb 7, 2024 · Debra Messing has signed on to executive produce the feature documentary, Primal Fear about the explosion of antisemitism on college campuses, on social media, ...
  85. [85]
    New film 'October 8' exposes antisemitism on U.S. campuses after ...
    Jul 21, 2025 · New film 'October 8' exposes antisemitism on U.S. campuses after Hamas attack. Directed by Wendy Sachs and executive produced by actress Debra ...
  86. [86]
    Trump Debra Messing: President Targeted Will & Grace Star on Twitter
    Sep 1, 2019 · The actress and her co-star Eric McCormack had called for the names of wealthy Trump donors to be published.
  87. [87]
    President Trump Responds To Debra Messing, Eric McCormack ...
    Sep 1, 2019 · Debra Messing has responded via Twitter to President Trump and others who accuse her of Joseph McCarthy style tactics in her call for identifying and shaming ...
  88. [88]
    Donald Trump Attacks Debra Messing Again After Her Twitter Apology
    Sep 5, 2019 · On Wednesday, Messing apologized for “liking” the image of a church sign that called black Trump voters “mentally ill.” In the furor that ...Missing: anti- | Show results with:anti-
  89. [89]
    Trump calls 'Will & Grace' star Debra Messing a 'McCarthy style Racist'
    Sep 5, 2019 · “She wants to create a 'Blacklist' of Trump supporters, & is being accused of McCarthyism. Is also being accused of being a Racist because of ...
  90. [90]
    Debra Messing and President Trump spar on Twitter ... - Boston.com
    Sep 1, 2019 · Trump (@realDonaldTrump) September 1, 2019. Messing responded to Trump, asking him to focus on the Texas shooting, which killed seven people ...
  91. [91]
    Trump fires back at Debra Messing for wanting to shame his ...
    Sep 1, 2019 · ​Messing and her NBC co-star Eric McCormack ​said they would shame the Trump supporters in Hollywood who attend the fundraiser, where tickets ...
  92. [92]
    Debra Messing demands attendee list for fundraiser event, president ...
    Sep 2, 2019 · When actress Debra Messing publicly asked the outlet to release a list of fundraiser attendees, she inadvertently started a feud with the president.
  93. [93]
    Debra Messing's "pain in the ass" contract saved the Will & Grace ...
    Apr 24, 2020 · Will & Grace has ended for the second time and co-creator Max Mutchnick has revealed that actor Debra Messing's “pain in the ass” contract saved the series ...
  94. [94]
    Debra Messing Says Politics and Addressing Controversial Issues ...
    Oct 4, 2018 · Debra Messing says politics and addressing controversial issues are 'part of the DNA' of 'Will & Grace'. By Olivia Singh.
  95. [95]
    Debra Messing, Susan Sarandon Continue Trump-Themed Feud
    Sep 13, 2018 · Convince yourself that that this CATASTROPHE of a President who you said was better that [Hillary Clinton] IS NOT ripping children away from ...
  96. [96]
    Debra Messing calls out Megan Mullally for seeing play with Susan ...
    Dec 4, 2023 · Debra Messing has reportedly ensued an old feud with her former co-star Megan Mullally by targeting her in a post after she hung out with Susan Sarandon.<|separator|>
  97. [97]
    Debra Messing And Susan Sarandon Once Had A Heated Feud ...
    Jul 12, 2023 · Debra Messing and Susan Sarandon are both firmly against Donald Trump, but when the 2016 presidential election rolled around, ...
  98. [98]
    The Unraveling of Debra Messing and “Liberal Zionism” - Player FM
    Oct 3, 2025 · Listen to The Unraveling Of Debra Messing And “Liberal Zionism” and fifty-six more episodes by A Bit Fruity With Matt Bernstein, free!Missing: criticism | Show results with:criticism
  99. [99]
    Debra Messing, Mayim Bialik to Headline 'And They're Jewish'
    Mar 4, 2025 · Debra Messing, Emmanuelle Chriqui, Mayim Bialik to Headline New Digital Series 'And They're Jewish,' Hosted by Influencer Hen Mazzig (EXCLUSIVE).
  100. [100]
    RT25 First Reviews Flashback: Will & Grace | Rotten Tomatoes
    Jul 25, 2023 · "A big winner," "hilarious," and "one of the sharpest, well-acted sitcoms," critics said in 1998 about the show starring Eric McCormack, Debra ...
  101. [101]
    Will & Grace Review: Dead Man Texting (Season 10 Episode 10)
    Rating 2.5 (2) Feb 8, 2019 · First, let's start with the easy stuff: Debra Messing has been brilliant this season. Both her dramatic work and her storyline with Noah have ...
  102. [102]
    Debra Messing Talks 'Will & Grace's' 'I Love Lucy' Tribute Episode
    Apr 10, 2020 · You wouldn't be the first person to tell Debra Messing that she looks like Lucille Ball. You also wouldn't be the most important person to ...Missing: comparison | Show results with:comparison
  103. [103]
    Why do people dislike Debra Messing? : r/WillAndGrace - Reddit
    Sep 5, 2024 · But her Zionism and defence of the genocide in Palestine really is indefensible. And hiding behind antisemitism as a way to claim victim hood ...Between her pro-Israel takes, Debra Messing shares a tweet ...The Unraveling of Debra Messing : r/BreadTube - RedditMore results from www.reddit.com
  104. [104]
    Review: The Mysteries of Laura Has It All. All Wrong. - Time Magazine
    Sep 15, 2014 · You can be a terrible cop show and a terrible parenting show. You can be a ridiculous drama and an unfunny comedy. You can try to glom on to the ...
  105. [105]
    Mysteries of Laura Is a Bad Show. It's a Bad, Bad Show. - Vulture
    Sep 17, 2014 · The mystery is bad, the police work is bad, the home-life stories are bad, everything is bad. This is a bad, bad show.
  106. [106]
    Performances somewhat make up for formulaic comedy - Roger Ebert
    Rating 2.5/4 · Review by Roger EbertFeb 3, 2005 · “The Wedding Date” presents the curious case of two appealing performances surviving a bombardment of schlock.
  107. [107]
    Debra Messing Movies & TV Shows List | Rotten Tomatoes
    Explore the complete filmography of Debra Messing on Rotten Tomatoes! Discover every movie and TV show they have been credited in.
  108. [108]
    Will & Grace: How a Sitcom Made History On Prime Time
    Sep 21, 2025 · It was the first U.S. sitcom to feature openly gay lead characters in prime time, helping normalize LGBTQ+ representation in mainstream media.
  109. [109]
    Will & Grace is back, and so is the debate over its place in LGBTQ ...
    an unusual ...Missing: visibility | Show results with:visibility
  110. [110]
    'Will & Grace' Is Back. Will Its Portrait of Gay Life Hold Up?
    Sep 14, 2017 · The groundbreaking NBC sitcom helped normalize gay characters in the 1990s. But its sharp-edged humor and stereotypes may feel out of step in the identity ...
  111. [111]
    Debra Messing & Mandana Dayani Launch Podcast Series 'The ...
    May 13, 2020 · “We wanted to show there were dissenters everywhere, it's not just in the political or social justice lane, it's in the fashion lane and it's in ...Missing: influence | Show results with:influence
  112. [112]
    Debra Messing Honored at Israel Film Festival Luncheon
    Jun 8, 2025 · The Emmy-winning actress executive-produced the documentary 'October 8,' which chronicles the alarming rise of antisemitism on college campuses.
  113. [113]
    Debra Messing at Israel Film Festival Event Discusses 'Dismantling ...
    Jun 10, 2025 · Debra Messing at Israel Film Festival Event Discusses 'Dismantling Virulent Jew Hatred' Through Film.Missing: career | Show results with:career