Eric McCormack, renowned for his Emmy-winning performance as Will Truman in the groundbreaking sitcom Will & Grace, has had a profound impact on the world of television and theater. With his exceptional talent, McCormack has built a long-lasting career, becoming a beloved figure in the entertainment industry. Eric McCormack net worth, currently estimated at $20 million, mirrors his immense contributions to acting, producing, and directing. This article takes an in-depth look at his inspiring story, career milestones, and enduring legacy.
Early Life and Upbringing
Eric James McCormack was born on April 18, 1963, in Toronto, Canada. He grew up in a close-knit family alongside three siblings, with his mother serving as a homemaker and his father working as a financial analyst. McCormack’s Scottish ancestry played a part in shaping his disciplined and cultured upbringing.
He attended Stephen Leacock Collegiate Institute, where he developed an early affinity for acting through school plays. His first serious appearance was in the musical Godspell, which solidified his determination to pursue a career in the arts. After high school, he briefly attended Ryerson University’s School of Theatre in Toronto before leaving to join the Stratford Shakespeare Festival. There, he spent five seasons honing his craft in classical theater.
Early Career in Theater and Television
McCormack made his onscreen debut in minor productions, including The Boys From Syracuse and a Shakespearean TV adaptation of Twelfth Night in 1986. His initial years were filled with small roles in Canadian television and theater before he moved to Los Angeles in the early 1990s to explore more lucrative opportunities.
His move to the U.S. paid off with appearances in shows like Top Cops, Street Justice, and Lonesome Dove. Despite constant auditions, McCormack faced setbacks — including losing the iconic Ross Geller role in Friends to David Schwimmer. However, his perseverance soon brought him closer to his career breakthrough.
The Breakthrough Role in Will & Grace
Going from Unknown to Icon
When McCormack auditioned for NBC’s Will & Grace, he immediately resonated with the character of Will Truman, a sophisticated and witty lawyer who also happened to be gay. Despite not being gay himself, McCormack’s portrayal of Will was sensitive, endearing, and groundbreaking, offering mainstream representation of LGBTQ+ characters on American television.
The sitcom premiered in 1998 and rapidly gained traction, with its pilot episode being watched by over 8 million viewers. Running for eight seasons and concluding in 2006, the show became a cultural phenomenon, winning 18 Emmy Awards out of 83 nominations. McCormack’s performance earned him a Primetime Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series in 2001.
Financial Success and Eric McCormack Net Worth
During the peak of Will & Grace, McCormack’s salary was $250,000 per episode, earning him approximately $6 million annually. This not only contributed significantly to Eric McCormack net worth but also reinforced his status as one of television’s highest-paid actors at the time.
The show’s revival in 2017 further added value to McCormack’s career, as it ran for three additional seasons, concluding finally in 2020.
Expanding His Horizons
Film Roles and Theater Accomplishments
While McCormack made a name for himself in television, he also found success on stage and in film. His Broadway debut came in 2001 with The Music Man, where his magnetic presence wowed theater audiences. He later co-starred in Gore Vidal’s The Best Man (2012) and took on Off-Broadway roles in Neil LaBute’s Some Girl(s).
On the big screen, McCormack appeared in the science-fiction feature The Lost World and the comedy-drama My One and Only. Though his film career didn’t reach the same heights as his television work, these projects showcased his versatility as an actor.
Recent Projects
McCormack has appeared in several other notable television series, including Perception (2012-2015), Travelers (2016-2018), and Hulu’s The Other Black Girl. These roles further solidified his reputation as a highly skilled and adaptable performer.
Personal Life and Challenges
Eric McCormack has always prioritized family despite his workload. He married Janet Holden, an assistant director he met on the set of Lonesome Dove, in 1997. The couple has one son, Finnegan, and split their time between Los Angeles and Vancouver. Unfortunately, in a turn of events, Janet filed for divorce in 2023 after 26 years of marriage.
McCormack’s personal life has also been defined by his philanthropic efforts. He supports charities like Stand Up To Cancer and the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation. His father’s battle with prostate cancer and his mother’s struggles with breast and bladder cancer have driven his advocacy for cancer awareness.
Eric McCormack Net Worth – Financial Highlights
McCormack’s stellar career has been rewarded with financial success. Below is an overview of the factors contributing to Eric McCormack net worth:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Estimated Net Worth | $20 Million |
| Peak Salary (Per Episode) | $250,000 |
| Primary Income Sources | TV roles, Broadway performances, movie appearances |
| Height | 5′10″ (1.8 m) |
| Major Residence Value | $4 Million (Toluca Lake Mansion) |
| Awards | Emmy Award for Will & Grace, Stars on Walk of Fame |
| Notable Philanthropy | Stand Up To Cancer, Project Angel Food |
Awards and Legacy
Over the years, McCormack has received numerous accolades, including an Emmy Award, a star on Canada’s Walk of Fame in 2010, and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2018.
His influence extends beyond entertainment. By portraying a gay man during a time when LGBTQ+ representation was limited, McCormack helped shift public perceptions, making him a trailblazer for inclusivity in media.
Final Thoughts on Eric McCormack Net Worth
Eric McCormack’s career exemplifies perseverance, versatility, and creativity. Overcoming initial setbacks, his role on Will & Grace propelled him into stardom, establishing a platform for continued success. With Eric McCormack net worth standing at $20 million, his financial success is merely a reflection of his broader achievements and influence.
From acting on Broadway to advocating for critical health causes, McCormack continues to be a multifaceted figure in the entertainment world. His legacy serves as an inspiration for artists striving to create meaningful art while making a positive social impact.
