After revisiting her star-making role in “Will & Grace” Debra Messing has boarded a new comedy series that’s taking her to the White House. The Emmy-winning actress will topline “East Wing,” a half-hour political comedy series in development at Starz.
Created and written by Ali Wentworth and Liz Tuccillo, “East Wing” “draws from the experiences of Wentworth’s mother, who served as Social Secretary in the White House during Ronald Reagan’s presidency in the 1980s. It tells the story of Hollis Carlisle (Messing), a hostess extraordinaire who juggles her threatened husband, rebellious children, Nancy Reagan’s Chief of Staff, and a crippling social anxiety disorder,” the source details.
Messing, Wentworth, and Messing are among the project’s exec producers.
In addition to her behind the scenes roles, Wentworth will also recur as Kelly, Hollis’ best friend.
“The charm and relatability Debra brings to every character she inhabits will captivate audiences once again as she brings Hollis to life on the screen,” said Christina Davis, President, Original Programming for Starz. “This is a whip-smart comedy that despite its 1980s set dressing, is a pointed commentary on politics and the politics of being a woman today that will be a valuable addition to our slate of premium programming by and for women. Debra, Ali, and Liz will most definitely not be pulling any punches.”
Messing reprised her role as Grace Adler in NBC’s “Will & Grace” revival. The sitcom originally ran from 1998-2006, and returned in 2017. Its final episode aired earlier this year. Messing starred in all 11 seasons of the show, and won an Emmy for it in 2003. Her other credits include “Searching,” “The Mysteries of Laura,” and “Smash.”
Wentworth created and wrote for “Nightcap,” a comedy about a talent booker on a late night talk show. She also starred in the series, which ran for two seasons on Pop. She created and starred in Starz’s “Head Case,” a comedy about a therapist who treats Hollywood stars that ran for three seasons.
“Divorce” and “Sweetbitter” are among Tuccillo’s credits.
