Debra Messing Files for Divorce

Debra Messing’s character Julia on Smash managed to make it through some tough times with her husband and keep their relationship going, but unfortunately her actual marriage hasn’t fared so well. The actress filed for divorce from husband Daniel Zelman on June 5, 2012.

While Messing and Zelman separated last year, they continued to live together for quite some time, perhaps in an attempt to save their marriage or maintain a stable environment for 8-year-old son Roman. The pair first met in 1990 while attending NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts. They married 10 years later and reportedly still have a friendly relationship.

Messing’s divorce petition cites irreconcilable differences as the reason for their separation, and TMZ reports that she is requesting joint custody of their 8-year-old son Roman, spousal support and child support. Southern California attorney Neal Hersh is representing her through the divorce proceedings, and is himself something of a celebrity in the legal arena. Hersh has handled the divorces of several other Hollywood stars, including Melissa Etheridge, Halle Berry and Camille Grammer. Just as Hersh has a thorough understanding of the divorce process in California, you need an attorney who knows the divorce process in Florida (or your own state) if you are separating from your husband or wife.

Messing is best known for her starring role in Will & Grace and has appeared in a wide range of movies and television shows over the course of her career. Zelman also works in the entertainment industry and is known for his work as an actor, screenwriter and television producer.