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Lisa Kudrow: Fired from Frasier After Casting Mistake
Lisa Kudrow, the beloved actress best known for her role as Phoebe Buffay on the iconic sitcom “Friends,” recently opened up about her experience of being fired from the show “Frasier.” This revelation has sparked interest among fans and media alike, as it highlights a pivotal moment in Kudrow’s career that could have changed the trajectory of her professional life. In 1993, Kudrow was cast as Roz Doyle, the radio producer for Frasier Crane, a character that ultimately went to Peri Gilpin. However, before filming the pilot episode, Kudrow was let go from the role, a decision that she described as “devastating.”
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1993 | Kudrow cast as Roz Doyle in Frasier |
| 1994 | Kudrow fired from Frasier |
| 1994 | Kudrow cast as Phoebe Buffay in Friends |
| 1998 | Kudrow wins Emmy for Friends |
Background on Frasier and Lisa Kudrow
“Frasier,” a spin-off of the popular sitcom “Cheers,” premiered in 1993 and quickly became a staple of American television. The show starred Kelsey Grammer as Frasier Crane, a psychiatrist who returns to Seattle to host a radio show. The character of Roz Doyle, who was to be Frasier’s producer, was pivotal to the show’s dynamic. Kudrow’s casting as Roz was seen as a significant opportunity for her, especially as she was transitioning from smaller roles in television to more prominent parts. However, her journey took an unexpected turn when she was let go from the show before it even aired.
The Firing: A Devastating Experience
In a candid interview on the “SmartLess” podcast, Kudrow recounted the moment she was informed of her firing. Director James Burrows told her during a run-through of the pilot episode, “This isn’t working.” Kudrow described the experience as “devastating,” as she had invested time and effort into preparing for the role. Despite her disappointment, she expressed a desire to understand what she could do to improve. However, she later realized that the decision was likely a correction of a casting mistake, as she believed Peri Gilpin was always meant to play Roz. Kudrow stated, “I think they were just correcting a mistake. Cause Peri should have always been Roz.”
Transition to Mad About You
After her departure from “Frasier,” Kudrow quickly found herself in another opportunity. She was cast as a waitress in the sitcom “Mad About You,” a role that her agent initially advised her against accepting. However, Kudrow felt she was “not in a position to say no” and took the role. Her performance impressed the producers, leading to her being invited back for additional episodes. This experience proved to be a turning point in her career, as it eventually led to her audition for “Friends.”
Auditioning for Friends
Interestingly, Kudrow was the only main cast member of “Friends” who had to audition for director James Burrows, the same director who had fired her from “Frasier.” During her audition, Kudrow performed a monologue in a small room, and after finishing, Burrows simply said, “No notes.” This left her feeling uncertain about her chances of landing the role. However, her audition was successful, and she was cast as Phoebe Buffay, a character that would become iconic in television history.
Legacy of Phoebe Buffay
Kudrow’s portrayal of Phoebe Buffay on “Friends” became one of the most beloved characters in television history. The show ran for ten seasons, and Kudrow’s performance earned her critical acclaim, including an Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series in 1998. Despite her success, Kudrow has admitted that she has never watched the entire series of “Friends,” citing feelings of being “mortified” by her performance. Nevertheless, her role as Phoebe remains a significant part of her legacy and a cherished memory for fans of the show.
Conclusion: A Career Defined by Resilience
Lisa Kudrow’s journey from being fired from “Frasier” to becoming a household name through “Friends” is a testament to her resilience and talent. While her initial setback was painful, it ultimately led her to a role that would define her career and endear her to millions. Today, Kudrow continues to work in the entertainment industry, exploring new projects and revisiting past roles, including her acclaimed performance in “The Comeback.” Her story serves as an inspiration to many, illustrating that sometimes, setbacks can lead to even greater opportunities.
FAQs
1. Why was Lisa Kudrow fired from Frasier?
Lisa Kudrow was fired from “Frasier” because the director, James Burrows, felt that her performance was not working for the character of Roz Doyle during the pilot’s run-through.
2. Who played Roz Doyle in Frasier?
Peri Gilpin ultimately played the role of Roz Doyle in “Frasier,” a character that Kudrow was initially cast to portray.
3. What role did Lisa Kudrow play in Friends?
Lisa Kudrow played the character Phoebe Buffay in the sitcom “Friends,” a role that became iconic and beloved by fans.
4. Did Lisa Kudrow win any awards for her role in Friends?
Yes, Lisa Kudrow won an Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series in 1998 for her role as Phoebe Buffay.
5. Has Lisa Kudrow ever watched Friends?
Lisa Kudrow has stated that she has never watched the entire series of “Friends,” as she feels “mortified” by her performance.
6. What other shows has Lisa Kudrow been a part of?
In addition to “Friends,” Lisa Kudrow has appeared in shows like “Mad About You” and “The Comeback,” showcasing her versatility as an actress.
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