Lisa Kudrow, renowned for her role as Phoebe Buffay on the beloved sitcom Friends, is back on screens with her latest project, the Netflix comedy No Good Deed, which premiered on December 12, 2023. The series, created by Dead to Me's Liz Feldman, features Kudrow alongside Ray Romano and Linda Cardellini, exploring the life of the grieving Morgan family as they attempt to mask their tragic past. For many fans, Kudrow's involvement alone is enough to make it must-watch television.
But this new venture also brings her reflections on her time working with fellow Friends star Matthew Perry, who tragically passed away recently. Kudrow's emotional connection to Perry is clear as she draws memories from their time on Friends, recalling with admiration his unique sense of humor. "When we had our first table read, what Matthew was doing didn't sound like what I thought I was going to hear. It was like nothing I've ever heard before, I went, 'Oh boy,'" she stated, highlighting Perry's exceptional comedic talent.
During the promotion for No Good Deed, Kudrow was seen surprising fans on the Warner Bros. lot, playfully engaging with Romano and reliving some of the magic tied to the original Friends set. Romano jokingly reminded visitors of his own iconic show, Everybody Loves Raymond, but Kudrow quickly chimed back, showing her enduring love for their now-legendary sitcom. "Now he just always goes to this couch because he wants more attention," she remarked, injecting her charismatic humor, synonymous with the character she portrayed.
No Good Deed introduces viewers to Kudrow's character, Lydia Morgan, who grapples with her son’s murder and the various ways grief can manifest. Kudrow's portrayal has been widely praised for capturing the intricacies of mourning—balancing comedy with the burdens of loss. "I just feel like if I let myself stop missing him for even a second, it's like I'm saying, it's okay that's he's not here," she reflected on the emotional layers of her role, echoing sentiments of loss both on and off the screen.
The nuanced performance Kudrow delivers allows audiences to witness the complexity of Lydia's emotions—her character's initial reluctance to resume her career as a pianist being just one significant aspect. The depiction of Lydia grappling with her grief and guilt resonates powerfully, especially when paying homage to real-life experiences intertwined with humor. Viewers find themselves laughing and crying simultaneously, struck by the show's unexpected tender moments. Kudrow uses her exceptional range to bridge the divide between these heavy themes effectively.
Indeed, the comedy within No Good Deed is aimed at exploring the awkward and often painful moments when attempting to connect with others during grief. The series has earned acclaim for its ability to blend humor with heartfelt storytelling, showcasing the best aspects of the performers involved. Kudrow's distinct ability to deliver sharp, cutting lines alongside delicate emotional transitions evokes genuine applause. One particularly memorable line is when Lydia confronts another character: "You know what? You might be able to put on a pretty face, but I can see the real you. You're just a f__ pathetic nobody with a dark soul." This moment captures the boldness and clarity Kudrow brings to her role.
Having wrapped its first season, fans are already curious about the potential for No Good Deed Season 2. While creator Liz Feldman expressed her hopes for another season—stressing her desire to keep the story's essence intact—no official announcements have been made yet. Feldman said, “I always had a Season 2 in mind, and I do think this show has legs if it is done clever,” showcasing her confidence and excitement for the series’ future.
While reflecting on her career, Kudrow also opened up about her recent decision to rewatch Friends to celebrate Perry's life. She expressed how watching the show had previously felt too embarrassing but shifted her perspective to honor Perry's comedic genius instead. "Honestly, I wasn't able to watch it because it's too embarrassing to watch yourself. But if I make it about Matthew, then that's OK. And it's just celebrating how hilarious he was — and that's what I want to celebrate," she shared.
Kudrow’s fond memories of Perry aren’t isolated. Other Friends co-stars, like Jennifer Aniston, have shared tributes after his passing, demonstrating the bond created over years on set and the loss felt collectively. Perry's legacy continues to influence discussions and memories shared among fans and former castmates.
Looking forward, Lisa Kudrow remains one of Hollywood's treasured comedic talents. She continues to tackle roles with depth and humor, intertwining her past experiences with new projects, all the time carrying the legacy of her late friend Matthew Perry. With more stories to tell, audiences eager for her unforgettable presence can anticipate how she will continue to shape her craft on screen.