Lisa Kudrow’s Journey: From ‘Frasier’ Setback to ‘Friends’ Success

Lisa Kudrow recently shared insights into her television career, discussing her firing from “Frasier” and her memorable audition for “Friends.”

In an interview reported by Deadline, Kudrow recounted the pivotal moments that shaped her path in Hollywood.

Originally cast as Roz Doyle in the pilot episode of “Frasier,” Kudrow was replaced by Peri Gilpin. “I didn’t film it. I got fired from ‘Frasier’,” Kudrow said, describing the experience as “devastating.” Director James Burrows informed her that “This isn’t working” during the pilot’s run-through. Kudrow acknowledged that the casting change was a necessary correction, stating, “Because Peri should have always been Roz.”

Following this setback, Kudrow landed a guest-starring role on “Mad About You,” which became a significant turning point in her career. Initially cast as a minor character, her performance impressed the show’s creator, Danny Jacobson, who asked her to continue for more episodes. This role provided Kudrow with both financial stability and professional exposure.

Her success on “Mad About You” led to her being suggested for the role of Phoebe Buffay on “Friends” by Jeffrey Klarik, a writer and producer on “Mad About You” and partner of “Friends” creator David Crane. Notably, Kudrow was the only “Friends” cast member who had to audition for James Burrows, despite their previous encounter on “Frasier.”

Kudrow described the audition, “It was just this small room… I’m in a chair, and the audition was like a little monologue. And when I’m done, he just went, ‘No notes.’ And I thought, ‘Alright. I don’t know what that means. It’s hopeless.'”

Ultimately, Kudrow was cast as Phoebe Buffay and delivered a performance that spanned the show’s 10-season run, earning her widespread acclaim and an Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series in 1998, making her the first “Friends” cast member to receive this honor.