Debra Messing is an accomplished American actress, best known for her role as Grace Adler on the NBC sitcom Will & Grace. Born on August 15, 1968, in Brooklyn, New York, she graduated from New York University's Tisch School of the Arts. Messing's career took off with her performances in Ned and Stacey and Prey, but it was Will & Grace that earned her widespread recognition and numerous award nominations, including seven Golden Globe nominations and five Primetime Emmy nominations, winning once in 2003.