Alan Cumming praises Lisa Kudrow following heartfelt Time100 Gala tribute

• Alan Cumming was surprised by Lisa Kudrow's tribute in the Time100 list.
• The pair first bonded while filming Romy and Michele's High School Reunion.
• Lisa Kudrow praised Alan Cumming's authentic personality and calming presence in person.
  

Scottish actor and presenter Alan Cumming has spoken candidly about his enduring friendship with Lisa Kudrow following a touching tribute at the Time100 Gala.

Attending the prestigious event on Thursday, Cumming reflected on his inclusion in Time’s list of the 100 Most Influential People of 2026.

The 62-year-old American actress provided the homage for his entry, describing the host of The Traitors as "just as spectacular in person as he is on your television screen."

Kudrow further remarked that Cumming’s authentic presence makes those around him feel as though they can take a "deep, calming breath" whenever he is near.

Responding to these accolades, the 61-year-old filmmaker told Us Weekly that the identity of his tribute writer had been kept a secret until the reveal.

"I didn’t know it was going to be her. They don’t tell you. And so it was just such a lovely surprise," Cumming admitted. He reciprocated the warmth, stating that he feels the same way about her.

The pair famously established a "great connection" nearly three decades ago on the set of the 1997 cult comedy film Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion, where they first showcased their natural chemistry.

Cumming noted that while the two actors only see each other and work together "sporadically" due to their busy schedules, he has always considered her a "really good friend."

This public exchange highlights a rare, grounded Hollywood bond that has survived the transition from 1990s cinema to modern television excellence.