Television
One of Friends' Guest Stars Was Surprised to Be Invited Despite Doubting Fame
2024-12-02
Friends, that beloved NBC sitcom, was not just about the six ever-present patrons of Central Perk. It also featured side characters we still hold dear today and an A+ list of guest stars. From the likes of Bruce Willis, whose family shared those sob-worthy Thanksgiving photos, to Julia Roberts, it was always a delightful surprise to see who would pop up next. But one of the series' best guests had an interesting perspective - Isabella Rossellini.
Isabella Rossellini: A Hollywood Star with Surprising Insecurities
Isabella Rossellini has had an illustrious career. In the late 1980s and early '90s, she shined in movies like Blue Velvet, Wild at Heart, and Death Becomes Her. These films had a dedicated fanbase, yet she didn't think she was well-known enough to appear on one of the greatest sitcoms of all time. As she told EW: "I was surprised because at the time - maybe still today, but maybe to a lesser extent - there weren't many foreign actors recognized in America. And when Friends invited me, not just as a guest but as a star, it was a huge honor. I was really shocked and thought, 'Am I that known that I can play myself as a known person?' It was a great experience working with them."Her work in David Lynch's 1986 neo-noir thriller Blue Velvet, alongside Kyle MacLachlan, Dennis Hopper, and Laura Dern, and his 1990 directorial work in Wild at Heart further showcases her talent. Death Becomes Her still holds up today, having won an Academy Award for visual effects and being adapted into a Broadway play.Even if you weren't familiar with Isabella Rossellini before her appearance in the Season 3 episode "The One With Frank Jr.", her performance was unforgettable. In the episode, Ross had a list of five celebrities he'd be allowed to sleep with within his relationship with Rachel. Isabella Rossellini was a finalist, but he replaced her because she was "too international" and less likely to run into him in his home country.When she happened to stroll into the coffee shop, Ross approached her and explained the situation. Her response, "You know, it’s ironic, because I have a list of five goofy coffee house guys, and yesterday, I just bumped you for that guy over there." was not only hilarious but also showcased her comedic timing. Honestly, her delivery of, "It’s laminated!" alone was award-worthy.The Embarrassing Guest Star Experience of John Stamos
Isabella Rossellini may have had her insecurities, but at least she didn't experience what John Stamos did when he guest-starred. The Full House alum recalled the embarrassing moment when he made his entrance on Friends. He was told to pause for applause, but the applause never came. Matthew Perry had to step in to save him, which must have been a bruise to his ego.Where to Find Isabella Rossellini's Cameo
If you want to check out Isabella Rossellini's cameo or any of the other most ridiculous Friends episodes, all 10 seasons can be streamed with a Max subscription. It's a great opportunity to relive the memories and discover new aspects of this beloved sitcom.