E.G. Daily, a name synonymous with iconic animated characters, has a career that many would envy. Best known for her role as the voice of Tommy Pickles in the beloved series Rugrats, Daily has also brought to life characters like Buttercup from The Powerpuff Girls, Steve from Curious George, and Captain Sticky from Recess. Her extensive résumé showcases her versatility and talent in the world of voice acting.
However, Daily’s talents extend beyond voice work. The 62-year-old actress has made her mark on television and film, including a memorable guest appearance on the hit show Friends. In 1997, she portrayed Leslie, a character who was once Phoebe Buffay’s singing partner, in the episode titled “The One with Phoebe’s Ex-Partner.” The storyline revolves around Leslie, a jingle writer who attempts to rekindle her partnership with Phoebe, the quirky musician known for her song “Smelly Cat.” Their reunion is short-lived, as Leslie ultimately betrays Phoebe, leading to a comedic yet poignant conclusion.
Reflecting on her audition for Friends, Daily shared a unique experience that many working mothers can relate to. Just after giving birth, she received a last-minute call from her agents asking if she could audition for the role. The timing was tight, as the audition was scheduled for 8 PM, and the original casting choice had not worked out. With no time to arrange for a babysitter, Daily made a bold decision.
“I brought the baby in a little bassinet thingy in a car seat, and I brought the guitar in the other hand, and I went to the lot,” she recounted. This determination to balance motherhood and her career is a testament to her dedication. Once at the audition, she set her baby down and performed a few songs, showcasing her musical abilities, which were essential for the role. After completing the scene, she was thrilled to hear the words, “You got it.”
The following day, Daily found herself immersed in the whirlwind that was the production of Friends. She described the experience as overwhelming yet exhilarating. “It was such a well-oiled machine on Friends, so you just are dropped in suddenly,” she recalled. With a multitude of lines to memorize, blocking to learn, and guitar songs to practice, Daily had to focus intensely to keep up with the fast-paced environment.
Despite the challenges, Daily expressed pride in her work on the show. As a mother of two, she continues to pursue voice acting while also supporting her daughters, Hunter Daily and Tyson Daily Salomon, in their creative endeavors. Her influence extends beyond her immediate family, as she has garnered a significant following on social media platforms like TikTok. Fans often express their nostalgia, commenting on how Daily’s voice brought their childhood characters to life.
“I get a lot of, ‘You’re the voice of my childhood,'” she shared, reflecting on the impact her work has had on fans. The heartfelt messages she receives are a source of joy for her, and she enjoys connecting with fans at events like Comic-Con, where she can meet those who grew up with her characters.
E.G. Daily’s journey in the entertainment industry is a remarkable one, filled with memorable roles and experiences. Her ability to navigate the demands of motherhood while pursuing her passion for acting is an inspiration to many. As she continues to work in voice acting and engage with her fans, Daily remains a beloved figure in the world of animation and beyond.
Source: PEOPLE