Published on March 24, 2026
In a candid and engaging conversation with CBS News’ Tracy Smith, Emmy-winning actress Lisa Kudrow opened up about her iconic role as Phoebe Buffay on the beloved sitcom “Friends” and shared insights into her unique project, the HBO series “The Comeback.”
Reflecting on her time on “Friends,” Kudrow expressed gratitude for the lasting impact the show has had on audiences and her career. “It was such a special experience,” she said. “We were all young, excited, and just trying to figure out our lives, and that camaraderie translated beautifully on screen.” Kudrow noted how the show’s timeless themes of friendship and love resonate with viewers even today, decades after its original airing.
Kudrow’s portrayal of Phoebe won her acclaim and helped set a new standard for female characters on television. The actress shared that while Phoebe’s quirks and eccentricities were delightful to embody, it was her emotional depth that kept her engaged. “She was complex and completely unpredictable, which made it so much fun to play,” Kudrow explained. “I loved being able to portray a character who was both silly and deeply sensitive.”
Turning to her work on “The Comeback,” which follows the struggles of a former sitcom star attempting to revive her career, Kudrow revealed that the show resonates with her own experiences in the industry. “There’s a lot of similarity between being a woman in Hollywood and being a character in the show,” she said. “It’s about being misunderstood, trying to find relevance, and yearning for acceptance.”
“The Comeback” was notable for its satirical take on the entertainment industry, a reflection of Kudrow’s unique brand of humor. She emphasized the importance of authenticity in her work, stating, “I think people appreciate honesty, and that’s what we tried to bring to ‘The Comeback.’ It’s about finding laughter in the most uncomfortable situations.”
As the conversation delved deeper, Kudrow acknowledged the challenges of the industry today compared to when she started. “It’s a different landscape now; there’s more opportunity for diversity, which is a wonderful thing. But it also creates a different kind of pressure.” Despite these challenges, Kudrow remains optimistic about the future of television and the stories being told.
Kudrow concluded the interview with a message of hope and encouragement. “Whether it’s through laughter or drama, storytelling has an incredible power to connect us. I want to keep being a part of that.” Her passion for her craft remains as vibrant as ever, making her a cherished figure in the entertainment world.