Several actresses were considered for the role of Phoebe Buffay before Lisa Kudrow landed the part.
One notable actress who turned down the role was Janeane Garofalo. Garofalo was a popular comedian at the time, known for her quirky and sarcastic humor, which aligns well with Phoebe's personality. She was offered the role but ultimately declined, citing scheduling conflicts.
Other actresses who were considered for the role include:
- Ellen DeGeneres
- Kathy Griffin
- Sandra Bernhard
While Garofalo's decision to decline the role might have been a missed opportunity for her, it ultimately paved the way for Lisa Kudrow's iconic portrayal of Phoebe Buffay, a character that has become a beloved part of television history.