Emmy-winning star of the iconic Will & Grace, Debra Messing, shares her journey through fame, family, and self-discovery with these five compelling facts about her life and career. From her early inspirations to her present-day confidence, this is a story of growth, resilience, and embracing who you are.
Carol Burnett Inspired My Dream
Growing up in the woods of Rhode Island, Debra Messing lived in a world far removed from the glitz and glamour of Hollywood. But her life changed forever when she discovered The Carol Burnett Show. "We were isolated, but my parents watched Carol Burnett religiously," Debra recalls. "As a little girl, I was completely captivated. Watching Carol lead her show with such boldness, courage, and humor made me believe that pursuing a career in entertainment wasn't just some far-fetched dream. It showed me that women could be versatile, fearless, and unforgettable on screen—and that changed everything for me."
Even Stars Get Starstruck
Despite being a seasoned actress herself, Debra Messing admits she's not immune to the magic of meeting legends. "I was doing a play on Broadway when I first met Meryl Streep," she says with a laugh. "I had no idea she was even watching the show. When she came backstage to chat, I instantly reverted to my 11-year-old self—jumping up and down, taking selfies in my dressing room. It was one of those moments where you realize how much these icons mean to you, no matter how accomplished you become."
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Grace Adler Will Always Be a Part of Me
For Debra Messing, the character of Grace Adler isn't just a role—it's an identity that fans have embraced wholeheartedly. "There isn't a week that goes by without someone mentioning Will & Grace to me," she shares warmly. "And why wouldn't they? Grace Adler is such a special character, and she's had such a profound impact on people's lives. So, I've fully accepted that I'll be Grace until the day I die, and I couldn't be prouder of that. She's a part of who I am, and I want to be remembered as the woman who brought her to life."
A Beautiful Co-Parenting Journey
Though her marriage to screenwriter Daniel Zelman ended in 2016, Debra emphasizes that their bond remains strong. "We may not be married anymore, but we're still very much a team when it comes to raising our son, Roman," she explains. "To me, we'll always be a family. Coparenting beautifully is our priority, and I truly believe we've created a loving, supportive environment for him."
Confidence Comes With Age
At 25, Debra admits she was far too caught up in what others thought of her to truly embrace her authentic self. "Back then, I was still figuring out who I was and what I wanted out of life," she reflects. "Now, in my 50s, I've reached a point where I genuinely don't care what people think. And while I hate to admit it, part of that confidence does come with age. But it's also about learning to trust yourself and knowing that you've got this."
