Julian Murray Stern is best known as the only child of Friends star Lisa Kudrow and French advertising executive Michel Stern. Born on May 7, 1998, he is 28 years old. Unlike many children raised by Hollywood royalty, Julian grew up largely out of the public spotlight, though his early existence famously shaped a major storyline on one of television's most iconic sitcoms.
Early Life and the Famous Friends Pregnancy
Lisa Kudrow discovered she was pregnant with Julian during the production of the fourth season of Friends. Instead of hiding her changing physique behind loose clothing or large props, the show's writers wove her pregnancy directly into the script. Phoebe Buffay becomes the surrogate mother for her brother Frank Jr. and his wife Alice, carrying triplets.
While millions of viewers watched Phoebe's pregnancy unfold on screen, Julian was quietly growing in the real world. He arrived on May 7, 1998. Growing up, Julian spent time visiting his mother on set, giving him an early and intimate look at the television industry. Despite being surrounded by fame, Kudrow and her husband maintained a grounded household.
Julian also played a distinct role in his family's structure. Kudrow has frequently shared in interviews that Julian made it clear from a young age that he did not want any siblings. Because he preferred being an only child, Kudrow and Stern decided against expanding their family, focusing entirely on raising him. More information on this are detailed by Associated Press.
Education and Film Career
Opting for a creative path behind the camera rather than in front of it, Julian pursued higher education in the cinematic arts. He attended the private Crossroads School in California for his high school education. Following graduation, he enrolled at the University of Southern California (USC).
In May 2021, Julian graduated from USC with a bachelor's degree in Fine Arts, Cinematic Arts, Film and Television Production. During his college years, he gained hands-on filmmaking experience, directing projects such as the short film Mind Made Up for his junior thesis.
He has since transitioned into professional film and television work. In a full-circle industry moment, Lisa Kudrow cast her son in the final season of her comedy series The Comeback. Julian stepped into a role playing an AI tech expert, showcasing his ability to carve out a legitimate space in Hollywood on his own terms.
Relationship With the Friends Legacy
For a long time, Julian did not actively watch the show that made his mother a global household name. However, like millions of viewers around the world, he finally sat down to binge-watch Friends during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns. Lisa Kudrow noted in late-night television appearances that her son was pleasantly surprised by the series, admitting that he found it genuinely funny.
The cast of Friends has also remained a warm presence in Julian's life. Actresses like Jennifer Aniston and Courteney Cox have shared public birthday wishes and maintained close bonds with the family, watching Julian grow from an infant on set into a working adult in the entertainment industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Julian Murray Stern born?
Julian Murray Stern was born on May 7, 1998. His birth sign is Taurus.
Who are Julian Murray Stern's parents?
He is the son of actress Lisa Kudrow and advertising executive Michel Stern. His parents married in May 1995.
Did Julian Murray Stern appear on Friends?
Julian did not act on Friends, but his real-life birth inspired Phoebe Buffay's surrogate pregnancy storyline during seasons four and five of the show.
What does Julian Murray Stern do for a living?
He is a graduate of the University of Southern California's film program and works as a filmmaker and crew member, even appearing in his mother's series The Comeback.
Does Lisa Kudrow have other children?
No, Julian is Lisa Kudrow's only child. Kudrow has shared that Julian actively requested not to have any siblings while growing up.
