As I delve into the lives of these two legendary figures in the world of entertainment, Ray Romano and Lisa Kudrow, it’s fascinating to see how they navigated their meteoric rise to fame with such grace and humor. While Lisa was indeed the “Beatles” and Ray the “Alvin and the Chipmunks,” their shared journey through the spotlight offers a unique perspective on stardom and insecurity.
[This story contains major spoilers from the first season of No Good Deed.]
Lisa Kudrow and Ray Romano, renowned stars of popular ’90s and early 2000s sitcoms, portrayed their iconic characters Phoebe Buffay on Friends (NBC) and Ray Barone in Everyone Loves Raymond (CBS), respectively. While they worked on adjacent stages at Warner Bros for seven years during the peak of their shows’ success, they surprisingly hadn’t crossed paths beforehand. Their first meeting took place when they were both cast in No Good Deed, a Netflix release that premiered recently.
In the latest dark comedy series from Dead to Me creator and showrunner Liz Feldman, Kudrow and Romano play Lydia and Paul Morgan, empty nesters looking to sell their gorgeous Los Feliz home in Los Angeles following the tragic death of their teenage son Jacob (Wyatt Aubrey). Prospective buyers of the 1920s Spanish-style villa include three families: their neighbors, a washed-up soap opera actor (Luke Wilson) and his conniving, philandering trophy wife (Dead to Me’s Linda Cardellini); a newlywed couple (Teyonah Parris and O-T Fagbenle) expecting their first child; and a lesbian couple (Abbi Jacobson and Poppy Liu) struggling with fertility issues.
In the final episode of the season, Lydia and Paul, who spent much of the series concealing the truth surrounding their son’s death, uncover the actual events that transpired on the night Jacob passed away. With assistance from Leslie Fisher, an employee of the Los Angeles district attorney and a nosy character named Jacobson, Lydia and Paul piece together evidence indicating it was not their daughter Emily who pulled the trigger that killed her brother, believing him to be a burglar. Instead, the lethal bullet originated from Margo, played by Cardellini, who had been involved romantically with underage Jacob. Believing she would lose everything, including the stolen jewelry Jacob had taken from various homes as gifts for her, when he threatened to reveal their relationship, she took his life in a panic.
After years of hiding our secret, Paul, Lydia, and I – whose bond was strained due to that shared burden – finally found the solace we needed to start mending our family ties. “It felt great to see that Paul manages to keep it together, but deep down he’s hurting too, just like Lydia,” I shared with The Hollywood Reporter in our joint interview with Kudrow about the finale. “I believe it was crucial for the viewers to witness the love this couple once shared.
In a recent video chat from Los Angeles, comedic icons Kudrow and Romano shared insights from their initial collaboration after a long wait, revealing their strategies to infuse lightness and humor amidst their characters’ heart-wrenching predicament, as well as their journey through the whirlwind of fame during the ’90s.
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After joining the project, can you tell me about the discussions you had with Liz Feldman regarding how to develop and portray your individual characters? How would you describe this collaborative process between the two of you?
LISA KUDROW I wasn’t part of it until way after Ray signed on.
RAY ROMANO Indeed, at that point, you hadn’t been cast yet. I went through about three or four scripts, and they really piqued my interest. Each script left me eager to read the next one. Our conversation revolved around the tone of the show. I was already familiar with Dead to Me, having watched the first season, although I hadn’t seen all three. I knew this balance between broad comedy and drama would be challenging, but I believed she could pull it off. My main worry was that, in the wrong hands, this blend might not work effectively. However, after our discussion, where she shared her vision for the show, I felt reassured. It seemed like a smart move to join the project, as I didn’t want to miss out on the opportunity.
KUDROW I had a feeling it would be a yes even before reading the scripts because I’m a big fan of Dead to Me, and I recognized that it was created by Liz Feldman. When I learned that Ray Romano would be my husband in this, I must admit, I didn’t quite believe it at first until I had evidence. (They both chuckle.) Working with Ray Romano has always been a dream of mine, as I’ve admired his work in various films like Parenthood and more recently, Paddleton. To my delight, he is incredibly natural, listening intently, and responding thoughtfully.
ROMANO Well, thank you. I appreciate that.
KUDROW And he’s just so good. Oh boy, would I love to work with him.
ROMANO Uh oh. Let her keep going! Go ahead! (Laughs)
Then they mentioned, “It’s Ray and Linda Cardellini,” which sounded almost too perfect, and I wondered if it was too good to be true. I questioned, “Do I really need to read this? Working with these three talented individuals, especially Ray, would be an opportunity I’d never want to pass up.” My agents replied, “Sometimes, dreams do come true.” After reading the first three scripts, I became apprehensive, thinking, “What if I had said I didn’t need to read [the scripts]? I might have just jinxed it. Where is this heading, and can I be a part of it? I must discuss this with her.”>
ROMANO Just a thought that crossed my mind, but have you ever wondered if perhaps it could’ve been you who ended up taking his life?
KUDROW Yeah!
ROMANO Oh, wow.
KUDROW Her trembling hands indicate a heavy burden of guilt. In other words, all the information I gathered seemed to suggest guilt. But, why does she feel guilty? Is it possible that Paul inadvertently took their son’s life?
ROMANO Yeah, well, it would’ve been accidentally for both of us.
KUDROW Then he says, “Ah, she’s the one who asked for a gun. I see that in the flashback.” That’s just episode two, correct? So it’s her blame because she got the gun. I mean, it’s just guilt, but how much? It’s all reasonable amounts of guilt. Anyway, Liz said, “No, you didn’t [kill him].” And I said, “Okay, and my next question is [about] the lights flickering. Please tell me that’s Jacob, and you’re not going to explain it with something else that’s just a faulty wiring.” And she replied, “No, I do think that’s true.” To which I responded, “Good, so do I.
Although you’ve been working on the same studio lot for seven years without ever meeting, it soon became clear that you and I had many shared interests. Not only are we both Emmy-winning actors from some of the most iconic sitcoms in television history, but we discovered additional commonalities in our personal and professional lives. These shared experiences significantly influenced our collaboration on this current project.
PARAPHRASE Lisa’s humor style is truly distinct. I prefer to excel at underplaying situations and making casual jokes, and it seems that our styles mesh well in this regard. We each have our unique methods, but observing them come together was entertaining. As individuals, we both tend to approach scripts and writing in a similar manner, asking comparable questions. I believe we share the same work ethic as well. Everyone is present, and we all seem dedicated to our craft.
KUDROW We’re eager to join as well, that’s another point. We’re content with being present. Our decision to be here is deliberate. Some individuals may find themselves resenting the situation, but we both yearn to be a part of it. The emphasis lies on the [overall outcome], not our personal selves, but only to a reasonable extent that requires self-evaluation: Are we on track? Is what we’re doing appropriate and effective? There was no playback available, and we’ve both been involved in production and creation, so it wasn’t about vanity or self-criticism. Instead, it was about utilizing the logical part of our minds to observe and assess from a broader perspective: Is it successful? What adjustments might be necessary?
ROMANO From time to time, I find myself needing to watch a replay to make sure I’m really there and performing. It helps me confirm my presence in the action.
What stood out to me was that I never fretted over other actors stealing the humor in a scene, even though we’re in what’s categorized as a comedy. My primary concern was always ensuring authenticity rather than competing for laughs or punchlines. The series may be labeled a dark comedy, but it holds just as much dramatic depth as it does comedic moments.
As a fan, I must admit, the prospect of watching such a heart-wrenching tale filled me with trepidation. Knowing the profound sorrow they were already grappling with, I wondered how humor could possibly shine through in their darkest hour. Their son’s untimely demise was a tragedy that cast a heavy shadow over everything. Yet, I was eager to see how they would find light amidst such profound darkness.
In the span of these eight episodes, there are several intense emotional exchanges. However, two particular scenes stand out as pivotal moments in Paul and Lydia’s relationship: the heated argument in episode seven, and their reconciliation in Jacob’s room in episode eight. What were we trying to express during those crucial scenes, and how do you believe these scenes demonstrate the development of their relationship?
ROMANO In the initial setting, we were both offloading. There were actually two distinct events taking place. In the first instance, I aimed to express how he’s been wounded over the past three years, so there was a sense of fury present. However, I didn’t want it to be purely an outburst of anger. Instead, I wanted to demonstrate that beneath this rage lay deep pain, which served as its source. I’m unsure if I managed to convey this effectively. I believed I did.
KUDROW You got it! (Laughs)
ROMANO That particular scene gave me quite a challenge. However, I recall having a conversation with Liz either that very night or the following one, expressing my doubts about hitting the mark I aimed for. I was simply an uncertain actor who needed her reassurance that it worked out well. (To Kudrow) I could sense your presence. I was feeding off you and desperately trying to match your performance.
KUDROW Wow, that’s nice.
ROMANO That was a boiling point for everything that we were going through.
KUDROW To my viewpoint, that particular scene seemed crucial as it allowed Paul to ultimately release his feelings and openly express them.
ROMANO He was not blaming you, but suppressing the feeling of the gun being in the house.
KUDROW For quite some time, we’ve been deeply angry with one another, and Lydia was puzzled about the situation. She wasn’t aware that [Jacob] had taken things from other homes. It seemed like he was in a difficult position, yet she didn’t fully understand why. I believe it might have been because Margo dismissed him, causing him to feel low about himself, and his father being overly critical. This dynamic is quite typical when mothers observe their husband and son clashing, which is often the case between fathers and sons.
ROMANO It’s important to note that many families who face similar challenges often struggle to stay together. However, let’s try to maintain a positive outlook and focus on the hopeful aspects as well.
KUDROW The key lies in killing and binding them, maintaining this unusual interaction. I believe you grasp the concept. After all, you’ve witnessed it. I simply adopted the character, rationalizing each event as it unfolded. But there’s no one to discuss it with. She can’t seek therapy, confide in a friend, and [Paul] remains silent.
ROMANO What makes that circumstance peculiar is that we needed to conceal all aspects of it. Thus, you’re correct – there was nowhere to express or release it.
As for the second act, I found it touching when Lydia saw Paul conversing with the light in Jacob’s room. This moment held a special significance since he had been hesitant all season to acknowledge any indications suggesting their son’s presence remained within their home.
ROMANO I also found that scene satisfying. It was touching to notice that this character manages to conceal his pain effectively, much like Lydia. Just as the previous angry scene held significance in its expression, this one carried equal importance. I believe it was crucial for the viewers to witness a glimpse of what this pair once shared. It was challenging because I wasn’t sure how much my character believes he’s communicating with his son, but at that moment, I feel he is searching for something; he yearns for someone to bond with.
“Alright, you believe he’s in this room? Very well, let’s find out. I yield. I don’t know what else to attempt.
In that particular scene, I was positioned outside the door, listening in before I stepped inside. The sound technician was nearby, and we both heard him, his words stirring emotions within me as I understood the situation. It brought tears to my eyes then, and they could do so now. There’s a certain poignancy in watching someone who has guarded themselves for so long, only to surrender again and expose their vulnerability. Indeed, it’s quite moving. Although what I say might seem self-evident, it was still a touching moment. However, Lydia wasn’t fully present yet, so I had to suppress my feelings and then enter the room, as she was still somewhat upset.
ROMANO Right! And she just catches the tail end of it too.
Since Lydia and Paul have just sold their home, I’ve been pondering if we’ve had any discussions with Liz regarding potential storylines for another season. It’s also crossed my mind whether you’ve considered new paths for our favorite characters to explore in the next phase of this captivating series.
GAMER I’ve been pondering on this, but we haven’t delved into this particular angle yet. It’s about whether the game could potentially get the go-ahead from the developers or not. Do they see it as a viable project and are willing to invest resources in it?
KUDROW Whatever she has, you mean, for the next season?
ROMANO Indeed, there were some unresolved issues with the other pairs towards the conclusion. However, should an opportunity arise for her and us, I’ll be more than prepared to move forward.
KUDROW Yeah, me too.
Lisa, you confessed that you saw Everybody Loves Raymond for the first time during the pandemic and have re-watched it three times since then. Ray mentioned that you frequently use lines from this show on the set of No Good Deed. What are some quotes or references you might refer back to Ray from the show?
ROMANO Well, I know what her favorite episode is: “The Sneeze.”
KUDROW: “The Sneeze”! This opening had me in stitches repeatedly. I’d often replay it on YouTube, showing it to my son who also found it hilarious. Imagine, they’re in the bathroom and a guy sneezes directly at you – the expression on your face is priceless! It’s not just that you feel disgusted or angry. You feel genuinely hurt, as if your feelings have been wounded. (Laughs)
ROMANO I anticipated that it would create a chain reaction for the upcoming days. My character was fully aware of the situation they were about to face.
On the flip side, Ray, do you have a favorite Friends episode?
KUDROW (Deadpans) Did you ever see it?
ROMANO I did see it. I saw it many times. (Kudrow laughs.)
When it comes to Lisa, it’s well-known that she’s a fan of “Smelly Cat,” but what made Friends truly special for her was the fact that no character felt weak or outshone by the others. Unlike other shows with large ensembles, she found herself eagerly anticipating and laughing at each character’s antics, without ever feeling that some were funnier than others. Instead of wishing to hurry through certain storylines in order to reach the supposed comedic highlights, she felt like she had an all-star team, each with their unique style. The writers played a significant role in this, but it was also the actors’ ability to flawlessly execute their roles that made the show shine.
As a passionate fan, I can’t help but recall a moment from an episode where David Schwimmer uttered a line that left me in stitches. When I saw photos and asked if it was Monica, he replied, “No, I was experimenting.” (We both shared a hearty chuckle.)
How did you perceive the experience of becoming famous without social media, where attention seemed exceptionally focused on you? Could you share your thoughts about fame and the loss of anonymity during the ’90s? What memories from that era stand out to you, and how did you manage it all?
ROMANO Well, Lisa’s was much more magnified than mine. I know that.
KUDROW Really?
ROMANO Yes, of course! You were the Beatles, and we were Alvin and the Chipmunks.
KUDROW (Shakes her head and chuckles.) That’s not accurate! In fact, there were six of us dealing with it concurrently. So, we found ourselves pondering, how could someone possibly navigate this process alone? Given the magnitude, it’s simply overwhelming.
ROMANO The Beatles considered Elvis Presley this way. They did express these feelings about him. The Beatles said, “We had each other, while Elvis just had himself.” So, you’re the Beatles, but I am not like Elvis. In no manner am I similar to Elvis. I’m more akin to, gosh, I can’t even imagine a comparison for myself —
KUDROW Peter Sellers, you say? (Laughs) Well, I’m not quite sure I understand. You are Ray Romano, isn’t that right? Everyone certainly knows who you are!
ROMANO It’s strange, isn’t it? It’s a dual feeling – you believe you’ve achieved success, yet you still question your worth and think poorly of yourself. I’ve mentioned this before: Before my fame, I felt my taxi driver disliked me. Now, I wonder if my limousine driver does too. Despite my insecurities and self-doubt, they haven’t changed much for me. Fortunately, I had a solid family support system, and I didn’t have to undergo a drastic adjustment to this fast-paced lifestyle.
As a devoted admirer, I’d say that unlike some of my Friends co-stars, I didn’t quite live the Hollywood life in the limelight like they did. In fact, I tied the knot early on with someone who wasn’t an actor or part of this industry at all. It seems, much like today, there was a greater spotlight on single people and their relationships – who are you dating now? kind of questions. The media seemed to thrive on creating famous couples, so I didn’t have that intense scrutiny, which suited me just fine.
ROMANO Right, you didn’t have the same as Jennifer Aniston and Brad [Pitt] —
KUDROW I often found myself trailing Courteney Cox, Schwimmer, Perry, and LeBlanc, asking, “Who’s that you’re with?” in a casual manner.
ROMANO I didn’t make it into the gossip magazines this time. Previously, though, they did feature me after reporting that I had an emergency trip to a hospital due to a peanut allergy. Believe me, it’s true! (Laughs)
KUDROW But I remember the first time. We were friends with the ER cast, and so they would come over and hang out, and George Clooney would come over and hang out. This was before Batman, before our shows were hits. [It was] the first season, and they were doing well. And he came over with a tabloid and said, “Look! They think we’re dating! We’re in a tabloid!”
ROMANO That’s funny! It was great for him. You weren’t married yet, right?
KUDROW Yes, that’s correct. I can’t recall which one it was, but he was incredibly enthusiastic. And my response was, “Oh dear!” To which he replied, “But it’s wonderful.” (Laughs) I responded, “No, but I have a partner!
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No Good Deed is now streaming on Netflix.
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2024-12-20 18:26