Deep Dive
WHY did Lisa Kudrow transition from a pre-med biology student at Vassar to a career in comedy?
While initially pursuing a career in medicine, Lisa always had an interest in acting. After college, she realized she might regret not exploring it, a feeling reinforced by John Lovitz's success on Saturday Night Live. Lovitz advised her to join the Groundlings, which became her bridge to comedy.
WHY wasn't Conan O'Brien a Groundling?
Conan O'Brien, along with his writing partner Greg Daniels, was invited to write for Saturday Night Live after a showcase at the Groundlings. This opportunity led them to New York, preventing Conan from continuing with the Groundlings.
WHY was Lisa Kudrow initially hesitant about returning to her improv class with Cynthia Seghetti?
After her first class, Lisa found the other students' acting style too serious and phony, reminding her of cheerleading, which she had found embarrassing in high school. She was turned off by what she perceived as over-the-top emotional adjustments.
WHY was Lisa Kudrow fired from Frasier?
Lisa was initially cast in Frasier, but the network changed their mind and reversed course, recasting the role with Peri Gilpin, who they had in mind when writing the part.
WHY did Lisa Kudrow have a private audition with Jim Burrows for Friends?
Burrows wanted to assess Lisa personally, likely due to her previous firing from Frasier, which he also directed. He gave her no notes, leaving her unsure if it went well. Later, she learned she was the only cast member to have a solo audition with him.
WHY did Jim Burrows suggest Lisa Kudrow get under the table during a Friends rehearsal?
Burrows suggested Lisa get under the table during a rehearsal for the pilot episode as a comedic bit. While Lisa initially felt insecure and thought it confirmed Burrows' dislike for her, he later clarified it was his idea and they were just trying it out.
WHY did Lisa Kudrow initially stop reading online comments about Friends?
The early days of the internet allowed Lisa to read online comments about the show, some of which were critical and focused on the actresses' appearances. She decided to stop reading them, recognizing their potential negative impact on her performance and self-esteem.
WHY did Lisa Kudrow start watching Friends again after Matthew Perry's death?
Lisa began rewatching Friends as part of her grieving process for Matthew Perry. This led to a renewed appreciation for the show, her castmates' performances, and the humor she had missed while working on it.
WHY does Lisa Kudrow use the word "blessing" despite her stance on religion?
While not religious, Lisa appreciates the meaning of "blessing" and feels it effectively conveys her gratitude and the special significance of certain experiences, like having Friends in her life.
What was Lisa Kudrow's initial reaction to the success of Friends?
Initially, Lisa didn't consider Friends groundbreaking, thinking it "cute" but not on the same level as Seinfeld. She was primarily concerned with protecting her recurring role on Mad About You.
What was the research topic Lisa Kudrow worked on with her father?
Lisa worked with her father, a headache specialist, on research exploring the association between hemispheric dominance (handedness) and headache types.
What was the name of the play Lisa Kudrow was in that led to more acting opportunities?
The play was called "Ladies Room", written by fellow Groundling Robin Schiff. It was successful and led to Lisa's casting in a movie with Theresa Russell and an audition for Cheers.
When did Lisa Kudrow have her first Botox treatment?
Lisa had her first Botox treatment at age 60.
When is Lisa Kudrow's new show, No Good Deed, releasing?
No Good Deed is releasing on December 12, 2024.
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