Lisa Kudrow, known for her role as Phoebe Buffay in the hit sitcom Friends, recently revealed on the Smartless podcast that she was fired from another popular show, Frasier. The pilot of Frasier featured Kudrow as Roz Doyle, a character later played by Peri Gilpin for the rest of the show’s run. Kudrow described the experience as “devastating,” recalling director James Burrows telling her, “this isn’t working,” during the filming of the pilot.
Despite the disappointment, Kudrow believes that Gilpin was always the right choice for the role. She admitted that she had even gone to the network with Gilpin, acknowledging that they were correcting a mistake by casting her instead. This revelation highlights the complexities of the casting process and the constant adjustments that occur behind the scenes of television production.
Following her departure from Frasier, Kudrow landed a guest star role on the sitcom Mad About You in 1992. Initially cast as a nameless character simply referred to as “Waitress” in the script, Kudrow was advised by her agents not to accept the background role. However, she recognized the opportunity and the financial stability it would provide. Kudrow’s decision paid off when creator Danny Jacobson asked her to stay on for five additional episodes after her first appearance. This demonstrates the importance of taking risks and seizing opportunities, even when they may seem insignificant at first.
Kudrow’s talent and charm caught the attention of Jeffrey Klarik, a producer of Mad About You, who believed she would be perfect for the role of Phoebe in Friends. Klarik shared his thoughts with his husband, David Crane, who happened to be a producer of Friends. Crane agreed to let Kudrow audition, ultimately leading to her iconic portrayal of Phoebe. This anecdote showcases the power of networking and the role it plays in the entertainment industry.
Friends premiered in 2004, almost a year after the initial premiere of Frasier. Kudrow’s portrayal of Phoebe earned her an Emmy, making her the first cast member to win the prestigious award. Her character’s quirky and fearless personality resonated with viewers and solidified Kudrow’s status as a fan favorite.
Interestingly, Frasier has recently been rebooted, with Season 2 set to premiere on Paramount+ in September. This revival serves as a reminder of the enduring popularity of these beloved sitcoms and the lasting impact they have on audiences.
In conclusion, Lisa Kudrow’s journey from being fired from Frasier to becoming the beloved Phoebe Buffay on Friends is a testament to her resilience and talent. Her experience underscores the unpredictable nature of the entertainment industry and the importance of seizing opportunities when they arise. Kudrow’s success not only showcases her individual accomplishments but also highlights the lasting impact of iconic TV shows like Friends and Frasier on popular culture.
