After ‘Will And Grace’ wrapped up, Eric McCormack did not disappear from the limelight. Instead, he embraced new challenges and continued in the industry as an actor, producer, and more. Here’s an in-depth look at his endeavors post ‘Will And Grace.’
Eric’s Career After ‘Will and Grace’
After the success of the series, McCormack starred in a series of TV shows and movies. The actor appeared in 12 feature films and several TV movies between 2000 and 2016. He took on roles in series like ‘Perception,‘ where he portrayed Dr. Daniel Pierce, a neuroscientist and professor.
He also starred in TV series like ‘Trust Me‘ (2009) and had a recurring role in ‘Atypical‘ (2019-2021).
Eric ventured into the world of science fiction with ‘Travelers,’ a series that had him taking on the role of an operative from the future. He also contributed to the cinema, with movies such as ‘The Architect‘ and ‘Barricade‘ under his belt.
Beyond the screen, McCormack made a Broadway appearance in ‘The Music Man‘ in 2001, which he aspired to for 20 years.
Philanthropy and Activism
McCormack has been actively involved with various charitable organizations, supporting causes related to cancer research, AIDS awareness, and children’s welfare. The charity organizations he’s involved in include Elton John AIDS Foundation, National Breast Cancer Coalition, ASPCA, and the Human Rights Campaign.
His activism also includes advocating for LGBTQ+ rights. Initially, he turned down the role due to concerns about representing the LGBTQ+ community correctly. As Jim Colucci recalls:
“When Eric was originally offered the part of Will Truman and initially turned it down, you could be cynical and think, ‘Oh, yeah, he’s a straight guy afraid to play gay,’ and I really don’t think that’s what it was. It’s almost the opposite of that. It’s such a positive that he didn’t want to let the gay community down by being their sole representative and feeling like he might not be qualified.”
He continued:
“So rather than say, ‘Oh, I’m taking a personal risk,’ he turned it down out of modesty: ‘ I don’t want to overstep my bounds and speak for a community I don’t rightfully represent.’
In the end, Colucci said he was thankful that Eric changed his mind as he did a great job as Will Truman, who did great things for the LGBTQ+ community.
His Personal Life
McCormack has been married to Janet Holden since 1997, and the couple has a son, Finnigan Holden McCormack. Though he remains tight-lipped about his private life, his occasional public appearances with his family reveal a close-knit bond.
Eric’s Awards and Accolades
While his role in ‘Will And Grace’ earned him an Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series in 2000, his talent and dedication to the arts have not gone unnoticed post the show.
From receiving accolades for his performances in television and film to being recognized for his contribution to theatre, McCormack’s trophy shelf has only expanded with time. On September 13, 2018, he received the 2,644th star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Most recently, Eric and Sean Hayes reunited to host a rewatch podcast called ‘Just Jack & Will.‘ Nearly two decades after ‘Will & Grace’s finale, the two got together at lunch and decided to work on this project.