Celebrity collaborations and impromptu stage pairings aren’t exactly breaking news—they’ve been thrilling fans for decades. Particularly during big-ticket concert tours around the globe, where spectators are often treated to an unexpected guest performance that turns into a memorable musical moment. Such was the case when Taylor Swift brought a slice of television nostalgia to the stage with Lisa Kudrow, known to many as Phoebe Buffay from “Friends.”
On a buzzing night at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, August 26, 2015, fans packed the venue for the sold-out show of Taylor Swift’s 1989 World Tour, unaware that they were in for an extraordinary treat. Lisa Kudrow stepped back into Phoebe’s quirky shoes to deliver a charming acoustic version of “Smelly Cat,” the iconic song from “Friends.”
Watch the performance in the video below:
Before Lisa Kudrow enters the stage, Swift teases the crowd about the identity of her guest performer, saying, “This artist has previously only performed in cozy coffee shops. She’s never experienced a stage this grand, so let’s give her a warm welcome.” Fans erupted in excitement as they connected the dots, realizing a “Friends” legend was about to grace the stage. The anticipation peaked when it was announced they’d be serenaded with the one-of-a-kind rendition of “Smelly Cat.”
“Smelly Cat” has transcended its origins as a comedic anthem from the iconic TV show Friends, capturing the hearts of many in its wake. A diverse roster of performers, including Chris Isaak, James Michael Tyler, and even Friends’ own Courtney Cox — known for her role as Monica Geller — have paid homage to this quirky tune that tells the tale of an odorous, overlooked feline.
Watch the song “Smelly Cat“ on the iconic TV show Friends below:
The Staples Center came alive as Kudrow and Swift shared the stage, each with a guitar in hand, to perform “Smelly Cat.” The playful dynamic was evident when Kudrow humorously chided Swift to deeply connect with the song’s lyrics, leading to a fun exchange before joining voices once more. The performance culminated with the audience chiming in, rounding off a truly collective experience.
Swift’s 1989 World Tour marked a milestone, celebrating her fifth studio album, “1989,” which represented a bold shift from her country style and showcased her evolution as an artist. The album, featuring chart-topping hits like “Blank Space,” was an international sensation, reinforcing Swift’s status as a pop powerhouse.