Debra Messing Heads to White House in ‘The East Wing’

Debra Messing is returning to TV comedy in the Starz series “The East Wing,” based on the real-life experiences of actress-producer Ali Wentworth’s mother, who served as Social Secretary in the White House during the Reagan administration in the 1980s. Messing will play Hollis Carlisle, who juggles social events, her family life and her own anxieties in the show, which she will executive produce. Creator Wentworth will write, executive produce and play Hollis’ jealous best friend, Kelly Forbes.

“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,” Starz Original Programming President Christina Davis said. “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.”