Lisa Kudrow has revealed she refuses to sing the iconic "Smelly Cat" song from her role as Phoebe Buffay on Friends, even though she enjoys interacting with fans in other ways. During a recent episode of NPR's Fresh Air radio show, the 63-year-old actor said, "I don’t want to do that. I really don’t want to do that." The song first appeared in the second-season episode "The One with the Baby on the Bus," where Phoebe teaches the tune to guest star Chrissie Hynde's character. "Smelly Cat" became a running gag and a defining trait of Phoebe's character, known for her quirky and eccentric personality. Kudrow expressed no regrets about her time on Friends, emphasizing the genuine mutual respect and strong working relationship she had with her co-stars. She also shared that she had initially tried to pitch herself for the role of Rachel Green after being cast as Phoebe, but the producers turned her down. They had difficulty finding the right actor for Phoebe and didn’t see her as a romantic lead. The role eventually went to Jennifer Aniston, who became one of the most recognizable faces of the show. Reflecting on her career, Kudrow mentioned that industry expectations for her were initially low during her time on Friends. However, her popularity and opportunities began to grow after she starred in the comedy Analyze This, which helped increase interest from agents and opened up new possibilities for her career. Despite the fame and success that came with Friends, Kudrow has maintained a clear boundary when it comes to performing the "Smelly Cat" song. While she appreciates the connection with fans, she has chosen not to participate in what she considers an overused aspect of her character. This decision highlights her desire to keep her personal and professional life distinct, even as she continues to be celebrated for her iconic role.