About
Lisa Kudrow is an acclaimed American actress and writer, renowned for her portrayal of Phoebe Buffay in the iconic television sitcom *Friends*. Her performance in *Friends*, which aired from 1994 to 2004, earned her widespread recognition and numerous awards, including a Primetime Emmy Award. Kudrow's comedic timing and quirky characterization of Phoebe have made her one of the most beloved television personalities. Since then, Phoebe has been named one of the greatest television characters of all time.
Career Timeline
Friends Premieres
Cast as Phoebe Buffay in Friends, initially earning modest salaries as an unknown. The show's early success began building her profile and future earning potential.
Emmy Win for Friends
Won Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series, validating her performance. By this point, Friends cast members began negotiating higher salaries together.
Friends Salary Peak
As Friends reached peak popularity, the cast negotiated $1 million per episode, making them TV's highest-paid actors. This unprecedented deal dramatically increased her net worth.
Friends Finale
The series ended as one of TV's most successful sitcoms, securing ongoing syndication residuals. Her iconic role as Phoebe cemented her place in television history.
The Comeback Critical Acclaim
Created and starred in this HBO series, demonstrating her range beyond Friends. Though initially short-lived, it earned critical praise and showcased her creative talents.
The Comeback Revival
The series returned for a second season to widespread acclaim, reinforcing her credibility as a creator. Her continued relevance and artistic choices maintained her A-list status.
Friends Reunion Special
The highly anticipated HBO Max reunion brought massive viewership and renewed interest in the cast. The special reportedly paid each cast member millions and boosted merchandise sales.
Television Icon Status
Remains a beloved television star with ongoing residuals from Friends and steady work. While past her peak visibility, she's a household name with enduring cultural relevance.
Related Celebrities
Last updated: February 23, 2026








