Debbie Reynolds was a performer.
Debbie Reynolds . She was nominated for the Golden Globe Award for Most Promising Newcomer for her portrayal of Helen Kane in the 1950 film Three Little Words , and her breakout role was her first leading role , as Kathy Selden in Singin ' in the Rain ( 1952 ) . Other successes include The Affairs of Dobie Gillis ( 1953 ) , Susan Slept Here ( 1954 ) , Bundle of Joy ( 1956 Golden Globe nomination ) , The Catered Affair ( 1956 National Board of Review Best Supporting Actress Winner ) , and Tammy and the Bachelor ( 1957 ) , in which her performance of the song `` Tammy '' reached number one on the Billboard music charts . Reynolds was also a cabaret performer . She was also nominated for a Daytime Emmy Award for her performance in A Gift of Love ( 1999 ) and an Emmy Award for playing Grace 's mother Bobbi on Will & Grace . The Mating Game ( 1959 ) is an MGM Metrocolor film in CinemaScope directed by George Marshall and starring Debbie Reynolds , Tony Randall , and Paul Douglas in his final screen appearance .