Lisa Kudrow, beloved for her portrayal of Phoebe Buffay on Friends, describes her time on the iconic sitcom as life-changing. Decades after her final “Smelly Cat” performance, Kudrow credits the show with shaping her career and opening doors for creative freedom.
“I won a lottery being on Friends,” Kudrow shared in an interview, emphasizing that the sitcom remains one of the most rewarding experiences of her life.
The Magic of ‘Friends’
First premiering in 1994, Friends became a cultural phenomenon, captivating audiences worldwide with its humor and heart. Kudrow starred alongside Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Matthew Perry, Matt LeBlanc, and David Schwimmer. Their on-screen chemistry, she reveals, mirrored their real-life bond.
“We loved each other,” she said. “Going to work every day was heaven. It was too good to be true.”
Kudrow’s path to acting wasn’t conventional. The California native initially pursued a biology degree at Vassar and planned a research career. But a leap into comedy led her to the Groundlings, a Los Angeles sketch comedy group, and eventually to roles on television. After appearing as Ursula on Mad About You, Kudrow landed her iconic role on Friends.
The series’ success exceeded her wildest dreams. “All I ever wanted was to support myself as an actor. Friends went above and beyond,” she said. The show not only gave Kudrow an Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actress but also allowed her to work with people she adored.
A Career Beyond Central Perk
Kudrow used her Friends fame to pursue passion projects. She created and starred in shows like The Comeback and Web Therapy, both of which offered creative fulfillment. “Because of Friends, I got to create my own shows. They didn’t have to be as big, but they were so rewarding,” she said.
Now, Kudrow takes on a darker tone in Netflix’s No Good Deed, a mystery-packed comedy co-starring Ray Romano.
Exploring Mystery in ‘No Good Deed’
In No Good Deed, Kudrow plays Lydia Morgan, a suburban mother grieving the loss of her son. The plot revolves around the sale of her family’s home, with hidden motives and secrets among prospective buyers. Romano plays her husband, and Denis Leary stars as his brother.
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Kudrow enjoyed the mystery elements of the show. “I like when the story teases information, and just when you think you know what’s going on, there’s a twist,” she explained.
Interestingly, the cast didn’t know the series’ ending until halfway through filming. Romano convinced creator Liz Feldman to reveal the finale, which surprised even the lead actors.
Future of ‘No Good Deed’
Whether the show will return for a second season remains uncertain. Kudrow is open to continuing her role if the opportunity arises. “It’s up to Netflix and Liz. If there’s room for me, I’m not saying no,” she said.
As for her next project, Kudrow hopes to explore slice-of-life dramas or mysteries. “I’d love something not overly tragic but engaging,” she shared.
Kudrow’s journey from Friends to No Good Deed highlights her versatility, proving she’s much more than Phoebe Buffay.
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