ED BALLS MOCKS ERIC MCCORMACK’S AGE ON LIVE TV
Good Morning Britain’s Ed Balls caused a stir during Monday’s episode when he made a cheeky comment about actor Eric McCormack’s age. The 57-year-old was discussing Eric’s iconic role as Will Truman in the hit show Will and Grace before delving into his new project.
Co-host Susanna Reid pointed out that Eric is now playing an 18-year-old in a stage production. Ed couldn’t resist jokingly saying, “Which you also aren’t!” This prompted Eric to respond, “That’s very intrusive, Ed! Are you asking how old I am?” As the actor laughed awkwardly, Ed tried to explain his remark.
“Well, considering that Will and Grace aired over 18 years ago, I think it’s safe to say you’re over 18!” Ed added. Eric playfully replied, “This is very embarrassing on live television.”
However, Eric clarified that he only portrays a teenager in one scene of his new play. He shared with Susanna and Ed that he plays the 18-year-old boyfriend of a woman reflecting on her life.
The conversation then shifted to Eric’s portrayal of a gay man on television despite being straight in real life. Susanna asked about the ongoing debate surrounding straight actors playing gay characters.
Eric admitted that it was a difficult topic for him to discuss, saying, “I didn’t become an actor so that I could play myself. There’s no part I’ve ever played where I wasn’t playing something I’m not.”
During the interview, Eric expressed his desire to believe that he did justice to the role of Will on Will and Grace. Ed then posed a hypothetical question, asking if Eric could secure the role if the show was being cast today.
Eric responded, “I guess they’d have to ask in the casting room, ‘And you’re gay, right?’ which I don’t think they can say. I would like to think that the best person for the role, the one who comes in and nails it, gets the part.”
Fans of the show were delighted to see Eric on Good Morning Britain. Twitter user @joyceJo49834475 gushed, “Lovely to see Eric this morning! I loved Will & Grace, it was the best comedy for me, and Eric was the perfect actor for the part of Will.” @TriciaBryan20 agreed, stating, “I totally agree that the best actor for the role should get the part, regardless of their sexuality.”
Catch Good Morning Britain weekdays on ITV from 6am.
