Messing was born in the Brooklyn borough of New York City . She is the daughter of Sandra ( nÃ e Simons ) , who has worked as a professional singer , banker , travel agent and real estate agent , and Brian Messing , a sales executive for a costume jewelry packaging manufacturer . Messing was born in the Brooklyn borough of New York City , the daughter of Sandra ( nÃ e Simons ) , who has worked as a professional singer , banker , travel and real estate agent , and Brian Messing , a sales executive for a costume jewelry packaging manufacturer .