She was born and raised in Encino, California. Her father is a doctor. Kudrow’s first major acting role was the girlfriend of Woody in "Cheers". She has also had brief parts on "Coach" and "Newhart" but in 1993 she got her major break when she got the role of Ursula in the T. V. sitcom. "Mad about You".

In 1994 she succeeded in getting the part of Phoebe. In 1995/97 she was nominated for two Emmys for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a comedy series for her work in Friends.

Her feature film credits include ·"Romy & Michelle’s High School Reunion". ·"Mother".

Kudrow is has recently starred with Christina Ricci, Martin Donovan and Lyle Lovett in the film "The Opposite of Sex"