Will & Grace came back on the airways in 2017, 11 years after its original eight season run that lasted from 1998-2006, for a series reboot. The executive producers Max Mutchnick, David Kohan and James Burrows have confirmed that season three of the reboot (season 11 overall) will be the show’s last.
The producers made a joint statement,
We think of the ‘Will & Grace’ reboot episodes the way Karen Walker thinks of martinis – 51 is not enough, 53 is too many. That is why, after consulting with the cast, we all have decided this will be the final season of ‘Will & Grace.’ In 2016, Bob Greenblatt came to us with the idea of doing a 10-episode reboot of ‘Will & Grace.’ They say you can’t go home again, but we did. And now, three seasons and 52 episodes later, we’re even more proud of something we never thought we’d get a chance to do again. We have had a once-in-a-lifetime experience twice. And for that, we owe a double debt of gratitude to NBC, this show’s supportive and caring home since day one.
Will & Grace was initially brought back for a 10-episode reboot, but because of large fan support the series continued. However, ratings tapered off during the second season. The decision to end the show came from the creative team behind the series and the cast members. Debra Messing, who plays Grace, posted about the ending on Instagram.
George Cheeks and Paul Telegdy, NBC Entertainment Co-Chairmen, said, “The impact and legacy of Will & Grace simply can’t be overstated, both as true game-changer in the portrayal of the LGBTQ community and as one of the finest comedies in television history,” they continue with a shout-out to the people who made the reboot possible, “A huge thank you to Max, David, Jimmy and a cast that is second to none for their brilliance over an incredible run.” Will & Grace has acquired an abundance of critical acclaim with 91 Emmy nominations (18 wins), 30 Golden Globe nominations, and 7 GLAAD awards.
A release date for season three has not been announced, but Sean Hayes, who plays Jack, indicated on Twitter the season will be released this winter. Megan Mullally, the actress behind Karen Walker, added in her Instagram post that season three will contain 18 episodes.