Lisa Kudrow: Beyond Phoebe Buffay
A visit to Stage 24 on the Warner Bros. lot last November might have fooled you into thinking a new sitcom, “How’s That?!” was in production. Parking spaces bore the show’s name, director’s chairs displayed the logo, and a studio audience eagerly awaited the star: Valerie Cherish!
But Valerie Cherish isn’t quite real. She’s the creation of Lisa Kudrow, the star of HBO’s “The Comeback,” a series that returns for a third season, offering a satirical look at the television landscape through the lens of an insecure actress. “The Comeback,” co-created with Michael Patrick King, first premiered in 2005, following Valerie’s attempts to revive her career after a failed sitcom, all captured by reality TV cameras.
The Comeback: A Hilariously Unflinching Look at Show Business
The show was a brutally honest send-up of Hollywood, often excruciating to watch. Valerie’s desperation for fame led to humiliating moments, like being relegated to a sidekick role and even vomiting in a cupcake costume. Despite cancellation after one season, “The Comeback” gained a cult following, leading to a revival in 2014 and now, a third season.
This season introduces a unique twist: “How’s That?!” is purportedly the first sitcom written by artificial intelligence. Kudrow’s portrayal of Valerie navigating this new reality is a fascinating commentary on the evolving world of television.
From Groundlings to Global Fame
Unlike her “Friends” co-stars, Kudrow honed her skills at the Groundlings, a Los Angeles comedy group. This background informed her approach to Phoebe Buffay, imbuing the character with a unique specificity and comedic timing. Kudrow’s ability to embody both the observer and the observed sets her apart.
Post-“Friends,” Kudrow has consistently chosen unconventional roles, creating a diverse range of quirky characters, including the pretentious shrink Fiona Wallice in “Web Therapy.” Her producing partner, Dan Bucatinsky, notes her ability to connect with the misunderstood parts of herself, which translates into compelling performances.
Valerie Cherish: Kudrow’s Masterpiece
Valerie Cherish is arguably Kudrow’s finest creation – a character brimming with contradictions. She presents a cheerful facade while harboring deep insecurities and a relentless desire for validation. She’s a relic of 80s show business, clinging to outdated instincts and cherishing her one People’s Choice Award.
Navigating Fame and Personal Loss
Kudrow’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges. She’s navigated the pressures of fame, body image issues, and personal loss, including the recent passing of her dog, Emma. Her ability to maintain a grounded perspective amidst the chaos of Hollywood is remarkable.
A Legacy of Innovation
From her early days at Vassar, exploring evolutionary biology, to her breakthrough role on “Friends,” Kudrow has consistently defied expectations. She’s a comedic innovator, unafraid to take risks and explore the complexities of human nature. Her work continues to resonate with audiences, solidifying her place as a true comedic force.
Further Reading: The New Yorker – Lisa Kudrow: The Comeback
