Kudrow Reflects on ‘Friends’ Role in Providing Escapism Post 9/11

Lisa Kudrow Reflects on ‘Friends’ Impact Post-9/11

Renowned for her role as Phoebe Buffay in the sitcom Friends, Lisa Kudrow still recalls with emotion the program’s impact following the 9/11 terrorist attacks. The series provided a sense of escapism during those harrowing times when 2,977 lives were lost.

In an interview with Vanity Fair, Kudrow explained that after 9/11, she understood how crucial entertainment and comedies like Friends were to people for their escape from reality.

She also recounted the emotional encounters with fans post-September 11, such as a driver thanking her profusely at a stoplight. These interactions reinforced her understanding of the show’s importance to its audience.

The actress realized that Friends provided a “mental health service,” running from 1994 to 2004. However, it was Will & Grace that offered comfort during the aftermath of 9/11 for Kudrow.

She recounted watching Will & Grace after the attacks and finding solace in the show’s fictional setting, which was a much-needed break from the grim reality of those times.