Eric McCormack's Perspective on Casting: Talent Over Sexuality

Actor Eric McCormack, known for his role as gay lawyer Will Truman in "Will & Grace," shared his thoughts on whether non-LGBT actors should portray gay characters. In a recent interview on British television, McCormack, who is straight, expressed his belief that the most qualified individual should be chosen for the role, regardless of their sexual orientation.

Susanna Reid, a co-host on ITV’s “Good Morning Britain” show, asked McCormack what he thought about straight actors playing gay characters.

McCormack and "Will & Grace" co-star Debra Messing in June 2023

McCormack and "Will & Grace" co-star Debra Messing in June 2023

Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images

"It's a challenge for me because I didn't choose to be an actor just to portray myself," McCormack explained.

"In every role I take on, I'm always stepping into a character that is different from who I am. That's just part of the job."

"And I've always believed that if gay actors couldn't play straight roles, Broadway would suffer," he mentioned.

"So here's how I see it. I try to do justice to it, you know, authentically. I have a background in theater, and one of my closest friends was gay."

A scene from episode 110 of "Will & Grace"

A scene from episode 110 of "Will & Grace"

Chris Haston/NBCU Photo Bank/Getty Images

“So I think I took their spirit and their message in what was otherwise just a sitcom and, represented it, I hope,” said the Canadian-born actor.

Ed Balls, co-host of "Good Morning Britain," then asked McCormack if he thought he would be chosen to play Will if the show was being produced now.

McCormack replied, "I suppose they would have to ask in the casting room: 'And you're gay, aren't you?' which I don't think they can ask."

(From left) Eric McCormack and Janet Leigh Holden McCormack in New York City in July.

(From left) Eric McCormack and Janet Leigh Holden McCormack in New York City in July.

Bruce Glikas/WireImage/Getty Images

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In a recent interview, Eric McCormack shared his thoughts on casting decisions. He believes that the best person for a role is the one who truly excels and impresses during auditions.

"Will & Grace" was created by Max Mutchnick and David Kohan. It follows the lives of two best friends, interior designer Grace Adler and lawyer Will McCormack, who live together in New York City and rely on each other a lot.

The show was considered groundbreaking for its portrayal of single, urbanites, both gay and straight, during that time.

The show debuted on NBC in September 1998 and ran until 2006, before returning from 2018 to 2020. In total, there were 246 episodes over 11 seasons.

Editor's P/S:

Eric McCormack's perspective on casting non-LGBT actors in gay roles sparks a thoughtful discussion on inclusivity and authenticity in representation. While he emphasizes the importance of merit and talent, the question remains whether straight actors can fully embody the experiences and perspectives of queer characters. Some argue that lived experiences provide a unique authenticity that enhances the portrayal, while others believe that skilled actors can transcend their personal identities to deliver compelling performances.

McCormack's own experience as a straight actor portraying a gay character highlights the complexities of this debate. His commitment to authenticity through understanding the lived experiences of his friend and drawing inspiration from the show's groundbreaking portrayal of queer characters suggests that non-LGBT actors can effectively embody gay roles. However, as the entertainment industry continues to strive for greater inclusivity, the conversation about casting practices and the importance of authentic representation will likely remain ongoing.