The upcoming season finale of NBC’s “Will & Grace” promises a heartwarming and hilarious homage to the classic sitcom “I Love Lucy.” This episode, titled (presumably) as a tribute to the iconic show, offers a unique twist: the lead characters don’t just pay respects to Lucy Ricardo, they embody her!
A Tribute Long in the Making
Fans of both shows might be surprised to learn this isn’t the first time “Will & Grace” considered an “I Love Lucy” tribute. Debra Messing, who plays Grace Adler, reveals that during the show’s initial run (1998-2006), the idea of an I Love Lucy-themed episode was floated around. However, securing the rights proved a significant hurdle.
Lucie Arnaz and Desi Arnaz Jr., children of Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz, hold the rights to “I Love Lucy” content. They’ve historically been very protective, rarely allowing recreations of the show’s iconic scenes. So, when news broke that Arnaz had given “Will & Grace” the green light, it was met with excitement from both cast and fans.
Messing’s Emotional Connection to Lucy
For Messing, this episode held a deeper significance. She readily admits to being a lifelong Lucille Ball fan, crediting “I Love Lucy” as a major influence on her comedic style and career path. Growing up in a small town, television provided an escape, and “I Love Lucy” was a particular source of joy.
A Shared Lucy, with a Twist
The episode’s comedic premise lies in the characters exploring who among them most embodies a specific “I Love Lucy” character. The answer? All of them! Messing, Sean Hayes (Jack McFarland), and Megan Mullally (Karen Walker) all take turns portraying Lucy Ricardo in her signature red wig and teal coat. But the fun doesn’t stop there. They also trade off playing Lucy’s iconic neighbors, Fred and Ethel Mertz (originally played by William Frawley and Vivian Vance).
The one constant amidst this comedic chaos? Eric McCormack, who portrays Will Truman, takes on the role of Ricky Ricardo, Lucy’s exasperated bandleader husband.
A Glimpse Inside the Homage
In an exclusive clip shared by Entertainment Weekly, viewers get a sneak peek at one of the recreated scenes. Here, Ricky confronts Lucy (played by Messing) about her supposed overspending at the beauty parlor. Lucy, ever resourceful, decides to get a job to appease him. The episode then unfolds as a hilarious recreation of three classic “I Love Lucy” scenes: “Vitameatavegamin” (Messing), “Grape-Stomping” (Mullally), and “Chocolate Factory” (Hayes).
Messing Shares Personal Photos and Experiences
Messing further enriched the interview with Entertainment Weekly by sharing personal photos from the filming process. She also delves into her transformation process, from getting into full hair and makeup as Lucy to the emotional experience of meeting Lucie Arnaz.
One particularly touching anecdote involves Arnaz’s reaction to seeing Messing transformed as Lucy. Messing describes feeling overwhelmed with emotion, and it seems the feeling was mutual. While details are scarce, it’s clear the experience held immense significance for both Messing and Arnaz.
A Fitting Send-Off for Will & Grace
With “Will & Grace” approaching its series finale, this “I Love Lucy” tribute promises to be a highlight. It’s more than just a comedic homage; it’s a testament to the enduring legacy of “I Love Lucy” and its influence on television comedy. For fans of both shows, this episode is sure to be a nostalgic and heartwarming send-off for “Will & Grace.”
