Eric McCormack, Canadian-American actor and producer

Born on April 18, 1963, in the vibrant city of Toronto, Canada, Eric James McCormack is an accomplished Canadian-American actor and singer whose career has spanned several decades and captivated audiences across various platforms. He is perhaps most globally recognized for his iconic portrayal of Will Truman, the charming and witty gay lawyer in the groundbreaking NBC sitcom Will & Grace. Beyond this defining role, McCormack has showcased his versatility as Grant MacLaren in Netflix's compelling science fiction series Travelers and as the brilliant but eccentric Dr. Daniel Pierce in the TNT crime drama Perception.

Early Life and Theatrical Foundations

McCormack's journey into the world of acting began early, cultivated through his participation in high school plays in his native Toronto. His burgeoning passion for performance led him to Ryerson University, though his formal education there was destined to be brief. In 1985, a significant opportunity arose: a position with the esteemed Stratford Shakespeare Festival, Canada's premier classical theatre company. McCormack seized this chance, dedicating five formative years to the festival. During this period, he immersed himself in numerous stage productions, honing his craft and developing a profound understanding of theatrical performance, a foundation that would prove invaluable throughout his career.

The Path to Stardom: Hollywood and a Cultural Phenomenon

Following his extensive theatrical training, McCormack made the pivotal move to Los Angeles, a common pilgrimage for aspiring actors seeking opportunities in film and television. For much of the late 1990s, he navigated the competitive landscape, securing minor roles that gradually built his resume. His feature film debut came in 1992 with the science-fiction adventure film The Lost World. He also made appearances in a diverse range of television series, including Top Cops, Street Justice, the Western-themed Lonesome Dove: The Series, the sitcom Townies, and the popular legal drama Ally McBeal. These early experiences provided crucial exposure and prepared him for the role that would change his life.

In September 1998, McCormack achieved worldwide recognition with the premiere of Will & Grace. His portrayal of Will Truman resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike, making him a household name. The show itself became a cultural touchstone, celebrated for its sharp humor, witty dialogue, and its pioneering, often groundbreaking, representation of LGBTQ+ characters in mainstream television. McCormack's exceptional performance earned him considerable acclaim, leading to six Golden Globe nominations and four Primetime Emmy Award nominations. The pinnacle of this recognition arrived in 2001 when he triumphantly won the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series, solidifying his place among television's elite.

A Versatile Career Beyond Will & Grace

Even during the initial run of Will & Grace and certainly after its initial conclusion in 2006, McCormack continued to explore a diverse array of projects across various mediums. His stage roots were revisited with his Broadway debut in the 2001 revival of Meredith Willson's classic musical, The Music Man, showcasing his singing talents. On the big screen, he starred in the 2005 independent film The Sisters. Following the series finale of Will & Grace, McCormack returned to the New York stage, taking on the leading role in the 2006 production of Neil LaBute's play, Some Girl(s).

His television work remained prolific. In 2008, he starred in the miniseries adaptation of Michael Crichton's science fiction thriller, The Andromeda Strain. The following year, he returned to dramatic television in the TNT series Trust Me, though it was cancelled after a single season. 2009 also saw him venture back into science fiction film with a role in Alien Trespass. From 2009 to 2010, McCormack joined the cast of The New Adventures of Old Christine, playing Dr. Max Kershaw, the psychiatrist who becomes a love interest for Julia Louis-Dreyfus's title character. He further cemented his presence on television by starring as the brilliant but troubled Dr. Daniel Pierce for three seasons in the TNT crime drama Perception. Additionally, his vocal talents were utilized as he provided the voice of "Lucky" in The Hub's animated series Pound Puppies, demonstrating his range across live-action and voice acting roles. More recently, he captivated audiences with his leading performance as Grant MacLaren, a time-traveling FBI agent, in the Netflix original series Travelers, further solidifying his reputation as a highly adaptable and engaging actor.

Frequently Asked Questions About Eric McCormack

Is Eric McCormack Canadian or American?
Eric McCormack holds dual citizenship, being both a Canadian and American actor. He was born in Toronto, Canada, and later became a naturalized U.S. citizen.
What is Eric McCormack most famous for?
He is most widely recognized for his iconic role as Will Truman in the beloved NBC sitcom Will & Grace, which significantly elevated his profile and earned him critical acclaim.
Did Eric McCormack win any awards for Will & Grace?
Yes, Eric McCormack won a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series in 2001 for his performance as Will Truman in Will & Grace. He also received multiple Golden Globe and Emmy nominations for the role.
Has Eric McCormack performed on stage?
Absolutely. Eric McCormack has a strong theatrical background. He spent five years performing at the prestigious Stratford Shakespeare Festival early in his career and later made his Broadway debut in 2001 in The Music Man.
What other notable TV shows has Eric McCormack starred in?
Beyond Will & Grace, he has had significant roles in other popular series such as Dr. Daniel Pierce in the TNT crime drama Perception and as Grant MacLaren in the Netflix science fiction series Travelers. He also appeared in The New Adventures of Old Christine, The Andromeda Strain, and provided voice work for Pound Puppies.