Cast and Crew of The Comeback

The Comeback

A star is reborn.

In “The Comeback,” we are introduced to Valerie Cherish, a former television star who finds herself grappling with the harsh realities of fading fame. Portrayed by Lisa Kudrow, Valerie is a character who embodies the relentless pursuit of attention and validation, often at the expense of her dignity and personal relationships. As she navigates the complicated landscape of a career in decline, Valerie’s desperation to cling to the glimmer of stardom leads her to accept an unprecedented opportunity: starring in a reality TV series. This decision propels her into a world where she must confront not only the scrutiny of the public eye but also her own insecurities and fears regarding her place in the entertainment industry.

As Valerie embarks on this journey, the series documents her every move, showcasing both her comedic missteps and poignant moments of self-reflection. With the cameras rolling, viewers witness the awkward and sometimes cringe-worthy situations that arise as Valerie attempts to rejuvenate her career by landing a coveted role on a new network sitcom. The juxtaposition of her ambitious desires and the reality of her situation creates a rich narrative filled with humor, heart, and a bit of heartbreak. Lisa Kudrow’s brilliant performance adds depth to Valerie’s character, making her both relatable and flawed as she grapples with the implications of being in the public eye yet again.

Joining Kudrow in this hilariously insightful exploration of fame is Malin Åkerman, who plays Juna Millken, a savvy and ambitious young actress set to star opposite Valerie in the new sitcom. Juna’s presence introduces a fresh dynamic to the story, as she represents the new generation of talent eager to make their mark in a cutthroat industry. Their relationship is fraught with tension yet layered with moments of understanding, highlighting the different pathways of success and the challenges faced by both women. "The Comeback" ultimately offers a sharp, satirical commentary on the nature of celebrity and the lengths some will go to in order to reclaim their place in the limelight, inviting audiences to reflect on the true cost of fame.

The Comeback ran for 3 seasons.

Main Cast of The Comeback

Lisa Kudrow as Valerie Cherish

Lisa Kudrow

as Valerie Cherish (21 episodes)
Lisa Kudrow's portrayal of Valerie Cherish in the HBO television series "The Comeback" is a masterclass in cringe comedy and dramatic depth. As Valerie, a washed-up sitcom star desperate for a career resurgence, Kudrow embodies the character with a mix of vulnerability and narcissism that is both uncomfortable and compelling to watch. Her performance is nuanced, perfectly capturing the character's delusional optimism and the painful reality of her fading celebrity status. Kudrow's ability to oscillate between broad physical comedy and subtle emotional moments creates a character that is simultaneously cringe-worthy and empathetic. Her timing, expressions, and the way she navigates Valerie's complex relationship with fame and relevance highlight the darker side of show business. Kudrow's work on "The Comeback" is a testament to her range as an actress, going beyond her well-known role as Phoebe Buffay on "Friends" to deliver a performance that is both courageous and revelatory, earning critical acclaim and solidifying her as one of television's most talented performers.
Malin Åkerman as Juna Millken

Malin Åkerman

as Juna Millken (15 episodes)
Malin Åkerman's portrayal of Juna Millken in the TV series "The Comeback" is a nuanced depiction of a young actress navigating the complexities of Hollywood fame. Åkerman brings a magnetic energy to the role, adeptly capturing Juna's transition from a seemingly naive ingenue to a more self-assured and ambitious performer as the series progresses. Her performance is characterized by a blend of vulnerability and resilience, as Juna grapples with the pressures of the entertainment industry, the influence of public perception, and her own evolving sense of identity. Åkerman's chemistry with Lisa Kudrow's character, Valerie Cherish, adds depth to the narrative, highlighting the dynamics between seasoned and emerging talent. With her sharp comedic timing and emotional depth, Åkerman delivers a memorable performance that resonates with the themes of the show, offering a poignant commentary on the nature of celebrity and the transformative journey of an actor finding her voice amidst the chaos of show business.
Robert Bagnell as Tom Peterman

Robert Bagnell

as Tom Peterman (14 episodes)
Robert Bagnell delivered a memorable performance as Tom Peterman in the HBO television series "The Comeback," which aired from 2005 to 2014. Bagnell's portrayal of Peterman, a writer for the fictional sitcom "Room and Bored," showcased his ability to embody a character with both comedic timing and depth. His interactions with the show's star, played by Lisa Kudrow, highlighted the absurdity of the entertainment industry while also providing moments of genuine empathy for his character's struggles. Bagnell's Peterman was a blend of awkwardness and ambition, often caught between his professional responsibilities and personal insecurities, making him an integral part of the show's satirical take on Hollywood and its treatment of those who work behind the scenes. His performance contributed to the series' reputation for sharp wit and its nuanced exploration of fame and the human condition.
Lance Barber as Paulie G.

Lance Barber

as Paulie G. (21 episodes)
Lance Barber's portrayal of Paulie G., the arrogant and often abrasive television writer and producer in HBO's "The Comeback," is a masterclass in character acting. His performance is layered with a complex blend of insecurity and bravado, as he expertly navigates the nuances of a man who is both the architect and victim of his own inflated ego. Barber imbues Paulie G. with an underlying vulnerability that, despite his character's frequently boorish behavior, allows viewers to empathize with his struggles, particularly in his tumultuous relationship with the show's protagonist, Valerie Cherish, played by Lisa Kudrow. Barber's timing, whether delivering cutting one-liners or reacting to the chaos around him, is impeccable, and he brings a comedic gravity to the role that anchors the show's satirical take on the entertainment industry. His ability to convey Paulie G.'s internal conflict between his desire for professional success and his personal demons makes the character one of the most compelling and memorable aspects of "The Comeback."
Robert Michael Morris as Mickey Deane

Robert Michael Morris

as Mickey Deane (21 episodes)
Robert Michael Morris delivered a memorable performance as Mickey Deane in the television series "The Comeback," which aired from 2005 to 2014. As the trusted hairdresser and confidant to the show's protagonist, Valerie Cherish (played by Lisa Kudrow), Morris crafted a character that was both endearing and complex. Mickey was the embodiment of sassy wit and unabashed honesty, often providing Valerie with a much-needed reality check while simultaneously offering unwavering support. Morris imbued Mickey with a depth that transcended the typical sidekick role, infusing him with a rich backstory and a heartwarming vulnerability that endeared him to audiences. His portrayal of Mickey was characterized by sharp comedic timing and an authenticity that highlighted the character's struggles with self-esteem and his own career aspirations, all while navigating the tumultuous world of Hollywood alongside Valerie. Morris's nuanced performance added a layer of genuine warmth and relatability to the series, making Mickey not just a secondary character, but a beloved figure who often stole the scene with his quick quips and emotional depth. His chemistry with Kudrow was a cornerstone of the show's appeal, and together they explored themes of fame, aging, and friendship with both humor and poignancy. Robert Michael Morris's portrayal of Mickey Deane remains a highlight of "The Comeback," showcasing his talent for creating a character that was both a source of comic relief and a poignant reflection of the human experience.
Laura Silverman as Jane

Laura Silverman

as Jane (21 episodes)

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Laura Jane Silverman (born June 10, 1966, in Bedford, New Hampshire) is an Am...

Damian Young as Mark Berman

Damian Young

as Mark Berman (21 episodes)

Damian Young (born October 27, 1961) is an American actor. Description above from the Wikipedia article Damian Young...

Kellan Lutz as Chris MacNess

Kellan Lutz

as Chris MacNess (14 episodes)
Jason Olive as Jesse Wood

Jason Olive

as Jesse Wood (13 episodes)
Kimberly Kevon Williams as Shayne Thomas

Kimberly Kevon Williams

as Shayne Thomas (13 episodes)

Kimberly Kevon Williams was born on October 8, 1985 and is currently 39 years old.

Secondary Cast of The Comeback

Tom Virtue

Tom Virtue

is an American actor. He is known for his roles in the television series Even Stevens (2000–2003) and The Secret Life...

Cameron Diaz

Cameron Diaz

Willa Holland as Kalla

Willa Holland

as Kalla (1 episode)

Willa Joanna Chance Holland (born June 18, 1991) is an American actress and fashion model. She is best known for her ...

Kim Fields

Kim Fields

Kim Victoria Fields-Morgan (formerly Freeman; born May 12, 1969) is an American actress and director. She is best kno...

Dan Bucatinsky as Billy

Dan Bucatinsky

as Billy (6 episodes)

Dan Bucatinsky was born on September 22, 1965 and is currently 59 years old.

Sara Gilbert as Herself

Sara Gilbert

as Herself (1 episode)

​From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Sara Gilbert  (born January 29, 1975) is an American actress best known for ...

Sharon Osbourne as Herself

Sharon Osbourne

as Herself (1 episode)

British TV personality, author, music manager, businesswoman, and promoter. She is also the wife of famous heavy meta...

Aisha Tyler as Herself

Aisha Tyler

as Herself (1 episode)

Aisha N. Tyler (born September 18, 1970) is an American actress, stand-up comedian, and author, known for her regular...

Sheryl Underwood as Herself

Sheryl Underwood

as Herself (1 episode)
Mark L. Young as Tyler

Mark L. Young

as Tyler (8 episodes)
Lillian Hurst as Esperanza

Lillian Hurst

as Esperanza (5 episodes)

Lillian Hurst (born August 13, 1943) is a Puerto Rican actress and comedian. She started her career in the 1960s, wor...

Julie Chen Moonves as Herself

Julie Chen Moonves

as Herself (1 episode)

Jorge B. Luis

as Juan (1 episode)
Tom Fonss as Tim

Tom Fonss

as Tim (1 episode)

Tom Fonss is an actor and writer.

Justin Sayre

as Q (1 episode)

Minnie Schedeen

as Minnie (1 episode)
Nancy Shayne as Daphne

Nancy Shayne

as Daphne (1 episode)
Eric Zuckerman as Bob

Eric Zuckerman

as Bob (1 episode)
Meryl Hathaway as Andie

Meryl Hathaway

as Andie (1 episode)

Meryl Hathaway is an actress and director.

Bayne Gibby as Gigi

Bayne Gibby

as Gigi (9 episodes)

Bayne Gibby is an American stage, film and television actress and writer.

Kate Comer as Rada

Kate Comer

as Rada (3 episodes)
Rose Abdoo as Marianina

Rose Abdoo

as Marianina (3 episodes)

Rose Marie Abdoo (born November 28, 1962) is an American actress and comedian, known for her roles as Stars Hollow's ...

Lena Waithe as Summer

Lena Waithe

as Summer (1 episode)
Tom Wade as Sound Engineer

Tom Wade

as Sound Engineer (1 episode)

Doug Bass

Jim Titus as Police Officer #2

Jim Titus

as Police Officer #2 (1 episode)
Jackson Spidell as Waiter

Jackson Spidell

as Waiter (1 episode)
Morann Peri as Callabra

Morann Peri

as Callabra (1 episode)
Winter Jonz as Raoul

Winter Jonz

as Raoul (1 episode)
Vanya Asher as Connor

Vanya Asher

as Connor (2 episodes)
Carlos Jacott as James

Carlos Jacott

as James (2 episodes)
RuPaul

RuPaul

RuPaul Andre Charles (born November 17, 1960), known mononymously as RuPaul, is an American drag queen, television ju...

Andy Cohen as Himself

Andy Cohen

as Himself (1 episode)

Andy Cohen is the host and Executive Producer of "Watch What Happens Live," Bravo’s late night, interactive talk show...

Matt Cook as Ivan

Matt Cook

as Ivan (2 episodes)
Nik Dodani as Harry

Nik Dodani

as Harry (2 episodes)
Marla Garlin as Sharon

Marla Garlin

as Sharon (1 episode)
Stephen Guarino

Stephen Guarino

Carla Hall

Carla Hall

Keye Chen as Translator

Keye Chen

as Translator (1 episode)
Brad Goreski

Brad Goreski

Brad Goreski continues to be one of Hollywood’s most coveted and highly desired stylists, working with a bevy of actr...

Deb Hiett

Deb Hiett

Elaine Kao

Elaine Kao

​From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia.   Elaine Kao is an Asian-American actress of film, television, and theatre. ...

Seth Rogen

Seth Rogen

Seth Aaron Rogen (born April 15, 1982) is a Canadian-American actor, comedian, and filmmaker. Originally a stand-up c...

Zoë Chao as Shayna

Zoë Chao

as Shayna (4 episodes)

Zoe Chao is an actress and writer, known for Where'd You Go, Bernadette (2018), Strangers (2017) and The Comeback (2005).

Brian Delate as Ron

Brian Delate

as Ron (5 episodes)

After college graduation, Delate moved to New York City and spent his first few years adapting, both professionally a...

Winnie Holzman

Winnie Holzman

Abigail Klein as Ashley

Abigail Klein

as Ashley (1 episode)

Abigail Klein was born on December 24, 1988 and is currently 35 years old.

Frederik Pohl IV as Ned

Frederik Pohl IV

as Ned (1 episode)
Dan Warner

Dan Warner

Dan Warner was born on July 16, 1965 and is currently 59 years old.

Ashley Wisdom

David Hunt as Will

David Hunt

as Will (2 episodes)
Cheryl Bricker as Nancy

Cheryl Bricker

as Nancy (2 episodes)
Kimberly Condict

Kimberly Condict

Chris Eckert

Chris Eckert

Jimmy Fowlie as Rick

Jimmy Fowlie

as Rick (1 episode)
Keeshan Giles as Police Officer #1

Keeshan Giles

as Police Officer #1 (1 episode)
Gil Glasgow

Gil Glasgow

Gil Glasgow was born on July 18, 1953 and is currently 71 years old.

Tim Bagley

as Frank (1 episode)

Doran Butler

as Bird (1 episode)
Stephanie Cannon as Liz

Stephanie Cannon

as Liz (1 episode)
Katierose Donohue as Lamb

Katierose Donohue

as Lamb (1 episode)
Joe Spellman

Joe Spellman

Michelle Castillo as Dr. Gonzales

Michelle Castillo

as Dr. Gonzales (1 episode)
Brian George as Aman Adash

Brian George

as Aman Adash (1 episode)

Brian George is a British-Israeli film, television and voice actor for Indian accents, who typically plays guest role...

Rodney J. Hobbs as Omar

Rodney J. Hobbs

as Omar (1 episode)

Crew of The Comeback

Discover the backstage crew of The Comeback →