Lisa Kudrow and her son, Julian Stern, made a memorable appearance at the 2026 Emmy Awards, held on September 14 at the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles. The accomplished actress, now 63, brought her 28-year-old son as her guest, creating quite the charming scene in their matching black outfits.
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Kudrow’s double nomination at this year’s awards ceremony is a highlight for the actress, who received accolades for both her performance and writing in the final season of her cult-favourite show, *The Comeback*. This season has been particularly special, as it marks the end of the beloved series, which has garnered a loyal fan base since its inception.

Julian, who is Kudrow’s only child with husband Michel Stern, also played a role in the latest season of *The Comeback*, appearing as tech expert Evan in five episodes. His participation in the show seemed fitting, especially considering the emotional bond they share. In a statement to Deadline, Julian expressed his excitement about the opportunity to work alongside his mother. “It was a dream come true,” he said, recalling the nerves he felt at the prospect of acting with her for the first time.

The novice actor candidly admitted to feeling both excitement and apprehension. “I was really nervous going in,” he confessed. “I’ve never worked with my mum professionally like that before, and to be on camera with her, it’s like, ‘Oh God, am I gonna mess this up?’” Despite his initial worries, he quickly found comfort in separating their on-screen personas from their relationship at home. “When I’m talking with my mum, I’m talking with my mum. When I’m talking with Valerie Cherish, different person.”
The lines between their roles, however, were not always so clearly defined for Kudrow herself. She recounted a moment from the set where she unintentionally slipped into ‘mum mode’. In a candid interview with PEOPLE, she revealed an amusing incident where, feeling tired and slightly disoriented, she approached her son on the couch and cuddled up next to him. “Everyone just went… and he went, ‘Hi, Mum,’” she said, noting that some onlookers seemed puzzled by their interaction, unaware of their familial connection.
This heartfelt moment elicited a variety of reactions from their co-workers, some of whom appeared uncertain about the intimacy of the encounter. Kudrow reflected on the incident with a sense of humour, acknowledging that it might have seemed inappropriate to those who didn’t know they were mother and son. The incident offered a glimpse into the warm and affectionate relationship they share, even in professional settings.
As the awards night unfolded, Kudrow’s talents and contributions to the television landscape were celebrated, and her dual nominations underscored her versatility as both a writer and performer. Her work continues to resonate with audiences, capturing the complexities of relationships and the nuances of fame—an area she has explored deeply in her role as Valerie Cherish.
The significance of this year’s Emmys extends beyond mere accolades; it also marks the culmination of Kudrow’s journey with *The Comeback*. Fans of the show are likely to feel a poignant sense of nostalgia, reflecting on the character’s evolution over the three seasons and the impact she has made in the world of television.
As viewers anticipate the finality of *The Comeback*, Kudrow’s heartfelt bond with Julian exemplifies the blend of personal and professional that can result in remarkable storytelling. With both mother and son showcasing their talents in the same frame, their shared experience is undoubtedly one that will remain etched in their memories for years to come.
The 78th Primetime Emmy Awards were broadcast live on NBC and available for streaming on Peacock, capturing the excitement and drama of the event for audiences at home. As the new season of awards shows unfolds, Kudrow’s achievements serve as a reminder of the enduring legacy of talent and family ties within the industry.
