In 1998, Messing played a lead role as the bio-anthropologist Sloan Parker on ABC's dramatic science fiction television series "Prey". During this time, her agent want to her with the script for the first episode of the television show "Will & Grace". Messing was at first wanted to take some time off, but the script get her interest. She for the role of Grace Adler. She got the part, beating out Nicollette Sheridan. Sheridan later guest-starred on the show as a romantic rival of Grace's. "Will & Grace" became a ratings success, and Messing gained fame.