The Best of Lisa Kudrow: Her Top Roles In Film and Television
From the quirky Phoebe Buffay on Friends to her latest venture in Time Bandits, Lisa Kudrow’s career is nothing short of a rollercoaster ride of talent and versatility. With decades of dazzling performances, Kudrow has proven she’s not just a one-trick pony. Her impressive trophy case boasts a Primetime Emmy, a Screen Actors Guild Award, and an American Comedy Award—because who else could pull off that kind of comedic magic?
But wait, there’s more! Not only has Kudrow graced us with her acting chops, but she’s also left her mark as a brilliant writer and producer, especially with the groundbreaking The Comeback.
Now, buckle up for a blast from the past as we dive into her 14 best roles. These characters have made us laugh, cry, and everything in between. And don’t miss out on her latest escapade in Time Bandits, streaming now on Apple TV+, with fresh episodes dropping every Wednesday.
Join us as we count down the roles that truly showcase Lisa Kudrow’s extraordinary career!
Table of Contents
1. “Mad About You” (1993-1999)
Lisa Kudrow’s early career saw a breakthrough with her role as Ursula Buffay on the popular sitcom “Mad About You,” where her quirky, offbeat humor quickly endeared her to audiences. This performance showcased Kudrow’s comedic talent and led to her being cast as Phoebe Buffay, Ursula’s twin sister, on the iconic TV show “Friends.” Kudrow’s dual roles on both shows highlighted her versatility and knack for creating distinct, memorable characters. The success and popularity of Phoebe Buffay on “Friends” not only established Kudrow as a beloved actress but also allowed her to continue portraying Ursula, creating a fun crossover between the two hit series.
2. “Friends” (1994-2004)
Lisa Kudrow’s portrayal of Phoebe Buffay on the iconic TV show “Friends” became one of the most beloved and memorable characters in television history. Her unique blend of eccentricity, warmth, and comedic timing brought Phoebe to life, making her a standout in an ensemble cast. Kudrow’s performance earned her critical acclaim, including a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series. Over the show’s ten-season run, Phoebe’s quirky songs, whimsical outlook on life, and endearing oddities captured the hearts of millions, cementing Kudrow’s status as a comedic powerhouse and a key factor in the show’s enduring success.
3. “Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion” (1997)
Lisa Kudrow’s performance as Michele Weinberger in the 1997 film “Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion” showcased her exceptional comedic talent and further solidified her status as a versatile actress. Starring alongside Mira Sorvino, Kudrow brought charm and hilarity to the role of the ditzy yet endearing Michele. The film, which follows two best friends attending their high school reunion with outlandish plans to impress their former classmates, has since become a cult classic. Kudrow’s memorable one-liners and impeccable comedic timing have contributed to the film’s enduring popularity, making it a beloved favorite among fans and a significant highlight of her career.
4. “Clockwatchers” (1997)
In the 1997 indie film “Clockwatchers,” Lisa Kudrow showcased her dramatic range by playing Paula, one of four temporary office workers navigating the monotonous and often dehumanizing corporate world. Kudrow’s performance as Paula brought a nuanced blend of humor and poignancy to the film, standing out in a stellar ensemble cast that included Toni Collette, Parker Posey, and Alanna Ubach. Her portrayal of Paula’s struggle for recognition and meaningful connection in a bland office environment added depth to the film’s critique of corporate culture, highlighting Kudrow’s ability to tackle complex characters beyond her well-known comedic roles.
5. “The Opposite of Sex” (1998)
In the 1998 film “The Opposite of Sex,” Lisa Kudrow delivered a standout performance as Lucia DeLury, a high school teacher entangled in a web of deceit and manipulation spun by her half-brother’s scheming teenage sister, played by Christina Ricci. Kudrow’s portrayal of Lucia, a character marked by vulnerability and resilience, showcased her dramatic talents and earned her critical acclaim. The film, a dark comedy exploring themes of sexuality and morality, was well-received for its sharp wit and strong performances. Kudrow’s role in “The Opposite of Sex” demonstrated her versatility as an actress and contributed to the film’s success and enduring reputation as a smart, edgy indie classic.
6. “Analyze This” (1999)
In the 1999 comedy “Analyze This,” Lisa Kudrow played Laura MacNamara, the fiancée of Billy Crystal’s character, Dr. Ben Sobel, a psychiatrist who finds himself treating a mob boss played by Robert De Niro. Kudrow’s portrayal of Laura brought a grounded and relatable element to the film, as she navigated the increasingly chaotic and dangerous situations her partner becomes involved in due to his unusual patient. Her comedic timing and ability to balance humor with sincerity added depth to her character and complemented the film’s blend of comedy and crime. “Analyze This” was a commercial success, and Kudrow’s performance was an integral part of its appeal. There was a sequel “Analyze That” in 2002.
7. “The Comeback” (2005, 2014)
Lisa Kudrow starred in and co-created the critically acclaimed HBO series “The Comeback,” where she played Valerie Cherish, a washed-up sitcom actress attempting to revive her career through a reality TV show. The show first aired in 2005 and was praised for its ahead-of-its-time satirical take on Hollywood and the entertainment industry. Despite its initial short run, “The Comeback” garnered a dedicated cult following and was revived for a second season in 2014. Kudrow’s brilliant performance as the desperate yet resilient Valerie earned her widespread acclaim, including Emmy nominations. The show’s sharp, witty writing and Kudrow’s fearless portrayal have cemented “The Comeback” as one of the most memorable comedies of all time.
8. “Web Therapy” (2008-2014)
In “Web Therapy,” Lisa Kudrow starred as Fiona Wallice, a quirky online therapist who offers brief, often hilarious sessions through webcam. Premiering in 2011, the show was praised for its inventive format and Kudrow’s sharp comedic performance. The series achieved considerable success, leading to several seasons and showcasing Kudrow’s talent for blending humor with a satirical look at modern therapy practices. “Web Therapy” also featured a stellar lineup of guest stars, including Courteney Cox, Meryl Streep, and Julia Louis-Dreyfus, adding to the show’s appeal and contributing to its critical and commercial success.
9. “Easy A” (2010)
In the 2010 teen comedy “Easy A,” Lisa Kudrow played the role of Mrs. Griffith, a high school guidance counselor who becomes an unexpected ally to the film’s protagonist, Olive Penderghast, portrayed by Emma Stone. Kudrow’s portrayal of Mrs. Griffith added a touch of warmth and authenticity to the film’s exploration of teenage social dynamics and personal reputation. Her performance was well-received and contributed to the film’s success, which was praised for its clever script and engaging performances.
10. “The Girl On The Train” (2016)
In the 2016 thriller “The Girl on the Train,” Lisa Kudrow had a notable supporting role as Cathy, the ex-wife of Justin Theroux’s character, Tom. The film, based on the bestselling novel by Paula Hawkins, centers on a woman named Rachel, played by Emily Blunt, who becomes entangled in a missing person case that deeply affects her own life. Kudrow’s role as Cathy added a layer of complexity and depth to the narrative, contributing to the film’s tense and suspenseful atmosphere.
11. “The Boss Baby” (2017)
The “Boss Baby” franchise, starting with the 2017 film and followed by a successful sequel, “The Boss Baby: Family Business,” achieved substantial success at the box office and resonated with audiences for its inventive premise and humor. The films, which explore the comedic adventures of a corporate-minded baby and his older brother, garnered praise for their creativity and engaging storytelling. Lisa Kudrow’s role as Janice Templeton, the supportive and loving mother, added depth and relatability to the story.
12. “Booksmart” (2019)
In the 2019 comedy “Booksmart,” Lisa Kudrow played Charmaine Antsler, the well-meaning and somewhat unconventional mother of one of the film’s protagonists, Amy, portrayed by Kaitlyn Dever. Kudrow’s portrayal of Charmaine brought a blend of humor and heartfelt warmth to the role, as her character navigates the challenges of parenting a teenage daughter while trying to remain connected and supportive. Her performance added a relatable and comedic touch to the film’s exploration of adolescence and family dynamics. “Booksmart” was celebrated for its witty script and fresh take on the coming-of-age genre, and was nominated at the 2020 Golden Globe Awards.
13. “Feel Good” (2020-2021)
In the Netflix series “Feel Good,” Lisa Kudrow made a notable appearance as Linda, the mother of the show’s lead character, Mae, portrayed by comedian Mae Martin. The show, which explores themes of addiction, recovery, and LGBTQ+ identity with a blend of humor and poignancy, featured Kudrow’s role as a supportive yet complex maternal figure. Her performance as Linda brought an additional layer of depth to the series, highlighting the strained but ultimately loving relationship between mother and daughter. “Feel Good” was praised for its heartfelt storytelling and writing.
14. “Time Bandits” (2024)
“Time Bandits,” the new Apple TV+ series, features Lisa Kudrow in a captivating role that adds a unique charm to the show. Kudrow’s character brings depth and humor to the storyline, which follows a young boy who discovers a time-traveling portal. As the adventures unfold across different historical eras, Kudrow’s portrayal injects a blend of wit and warmth, making her character a standout amidst the fantastical backdrop of the series. Her presence promises to resonate with audiences, adding another layer of intrigue to this new show for Apple TV+. The series is created by Academy Award winner, Taika Waititi.
Lisa Kudrow’s career has been marked by an impressive range of roles that showcase her versatility and talent, from her iconic portrayal of Phoebe Buffay on “Friends” to her acclaimed performances in films like “Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion” and “The Opposite of Sex”. Her impact on television, especially through “Friends,” solidified her status as a beloved actress and comedic powerhouse. Kudrow continues to make significant strides in her career, with her recent role in the Apple TV+ series “Time Bandits,” where she takes on a fantasy role of Penelope. Kudrow will next be in seen in the Netflix series “No Good Deed,” alongside Ray Romano and produced by Will Ferrell. Her ongoing ability to adapt and shine in diverse projects underscores her enduring appeal and talent in the entertainment industry.
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