Sean Hayes

as Jack McFarland

Sean Hayes, who won an Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series in 2000 for "Will & Grace" -- and has been nominated every year since -- was raised in the Chicago suburb of Glen Ellyn, Illinois. A talented musician, he supported himself as a classical pianist and performed in a pop band while attending Illinois State University, where he majored in performance and conducting. He also appeared in the university's production of "Love for Love."

After his college experience, Hayes began working in the Chicago theater community, serving as the music director at the Pheasant Run Theatre for a few years, where he appeared in several of their productions. He also appeared in the original production of "Role Play" at the Organic Theater.

After moving to Los Angeles, Hayes had gigs as a stand-up comic, performing at the Comedy Club, and starred in the television movie "A&P," based on the short story by John Updike. Hayes also starred as Jerry Lewis in the television movie "The Martin & Lewis Story."

On the big screen, Hayes was recently seen in the independent feature "Pieces of April" for writer/director Peter Hedges. He was also featured in "The Cat in the Hat" as the voice of The Fish and in person as Mr. Humberfloob. Prior to these films, he played the title role in the art-house hit "Billy's Hollywood Screen Kiss," which won critical acclaim at the Sundance Film Festival, and lent his voice to the character of the diabolical Mr. Tinkles in the box-office hit "Cats and Dogs." Hayes has also been honored with two Screen Actors Guild Awards, a TV Guide Award, an American Comedy Award and five Golden Globe nominations.

Hayes resides in Los Angeles. His birthday is June 26.