Ally McBeal became such a water-cooler show, says Jane Krakowski Ally McBeal star Jane Krakowski has reflected on the show's global success. 14 April 2026 Jane Krakowski can't explain the reasons behind Ally McBeal's success. Jane Krakowski starred on the hit TV show The comedy-drama TV series premiered in September 1997 and quickly became a global hit - but Jane, who played Elaine Vassal on the show, struggles to explain Ally McBeal's popularity.