Fans couldn’t get enough of Taylor and Phoebe’s playful take on Smelly Cat

Collaborations between celebrities and joint performances are not a novel phenomenon. They have been taking place for many years, particularly during arena tours around the world where fans are delighted by unexpected guest appearances and unique songs; occasionally, there are unique moments like the one featuring Taylor Swift and Lisa Kudrow from Friends.

On August 26th, 2015, at the Staples Centre in Los Angeles, during Taylor Swift’s fully booked 1989 World Tour, concertgoers were unaware that they would witness an exceptionally rare and spontaneous performance. Lisa Kudrow – famously known as Phoebe Buffay – returned to her character to perform a live acoustic version of the humorous Friends song “Smelly Cat,” which is showcased in the video below:

Prior to Lisa Kudrow’s entrance, Taylor Swift teased the identity of her special guest. “This singer has only performed in coffee houses so far,” she remarks. “She’s never taken the stage in such a large venue, so we need to ensure she feels welcomed.” Once fans discover that it’s one of Friends’ prominent stars, they erupt in excitement, especially upon learning they will hear an exclusive rendition of “Smelly Cat”.

“Smelly Cat” swiftly emerged as a cult comedic tune from the Friends TV series shortly after its debut in the episode “The One With The Baby On The Bus.” The song recurred in several episodes featuring Phoebe, becoming a significant aspect of her character’s identity. This ongoing joke became a beloved favorite among fans and remains one of the most memorable elements of Friends to this day:

In their surprising duet at the Los Angeles Staples Centre, Lisa Kudrow and Taylor Swift shared a guitar and initiated the Smelly Cat song together. When it was Taylor Swift’s turn to perform a solo verse, Kudrow swiftly interrupted and advised her to ‘feel the lyrics.’ Following a bit of playful back-and-forth, the pair resumed the song, culminating with the entire arena joining in for a final verse.

Taylor Swift’s 1989 World Tour achieved worldwide success, with arenas selling out globally in honor of her fifth studio album, 1989. This album marked a significant departure from her country music roots, showcasing her substantial evolution as an artist over time. It includes some of her most successful tracks, such as the pop anthem “Blank Space,” which quickly soared to the top of global charts shortly after its release.

“Smelly Cat” has evolved beyond a Friends-related cult comedy classic, being covered by numerous artists. Chris Isaak, James Michael Tyler, and even co-star Courtney Cox (Monica Geller) have paid tribute to this quirky song about a neglected cat with a foul odor. Additionally, in 2021, the Friends cast reunited for a special Reunion Special, where Lisa Kudrow performed “Smelly Cat” alongside the renowned American singer-songwriter Lady Gaga.