Lisa Kudrow Casts Son as AI Troubleshooter in The Comeback's Final Season

Kudrow's decision to cast her son Julian Stern in the role adds a layer of authenticity and family connection to the show's final season.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 5:09am

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An extreme close-up of a luxurious, glittering fabric texture in shades of gold and silver, conceptually representing the high-profile world of television production and celebrity.The final season of 'The Comeback' brings a touch of family glamour to the small screen, as Lisa Kudrow casts her son Julian Stern in a key role.Burbank Today

In the final season of the TV series 'The Comeback,' Lisa Kudrow cast her son Julian Stern in the role of an AI assistant named 'Evan.' This unique casting choice not only aligns with Stern's real-life expertise in technology, but also adds a layer of sentimentality as he makes his acting debut on the same Warner Bros. stage where his mother worked on the iconic show 'Friends.'

Why it matters

Kudrow's casting of her son showcases the power of family connections in the entertainment industry and the potential for new talents to emerge from unexpected places. It also highlights 'The Comeback's' legacy of tailored roles and unique casting choices that have helped discover fresh faces, like Ella Stiller.

The details

Kudrow's co-creator, Michael Patrick King, praised Stern's casting, describing him as a 'tech nerd' who was 'uncorrupted' by fame. Stern, Kudrow's only child, made his acting debut on the same Warner Bros. Stage 24 where his mother worked on 'Friends,' adding a touch of sentimentality to the production. Kudrow has described her son's performance as 'great,' highlighting his natural talent for acting and animation, which he had previously showcased through stop-motion projects and short stories.

  • The final season of 'The Comeback' is set to air in 2026.

The players

Lisa Kudrow

An American actress, comedian, writer, and producer best known for her role as Phoebe Buffay on the sitcom 'Friends.'

Julian Stern

Kudrow's son, who made his acting debut in the final season of 'The Comeback' as the AI assistant 'Evan.'

Michael Patrick King

The co-creator of 'The Comeback' who agreed that Stern was the perfect fit for the role of the AI troubleshooter.

Ella Stiller

Another famous child who has appeared in roles on 'The Comeback,' showcasing the show's unique casting choices.

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What they’re saying

“Julian was great. He really was. He was able to cope with the challenges of a first acting gig.”

— Lisa Kudrow

“Julian is a tech nerd who is uncorrupted by fame.”

— Michael Patrick King, Co-creator of The Comeback

What’s next

The final season of 'The Comeback' is set to air in 2026, and fans are eagerly anticipating the reveal of Julian Stern's performance as the AI troubleshooter 'Evan.'

The takeaway

Kudrow's casting of her son in 'The Comeback' showcases the power of family connections in the entertainment industry and the potential for new talents to emerge from unexpected places. It also highlights the show's legacy of unique casting choices that have helped discover fresh faces and add authenticity to the series.