I always assumed that the makers of 30 Rock would have to search far and wide to find an actress unique enough to play the mother of Judah Friedlander’s… well, um, unique Frank. But was I ever wrong: They only had to go as far as Broadway!
Stage legend Patti Lupone has nabbed the part, sources confirm to me exclusively.
The Tony winner, who recently wowed ‘em as Gypsy’s Mommie Dearest, was last seen on the small screen playing the mother of Michael Urie’s Marc on Ugly Betty.
So what do you think? Did 30 Rock get it right? Can you picture the drama queen offering parental guidance to the comedy’s resident Pigpen? Sound off below! (Additional reporting by Andy Patrick)
This is perfect. Gotta love Patti, especially after her definitive performance as Mama Rose!
It’s a bit of typecasting for LaLuPone, but whatever.
I would love it if Patti Lupone and Elaine Stritch (Jacks mom) shared a scene or two.
Possibly the greatest half hour of television ever? We’ll see, but the pieces are in place. Oh man, Tina Fey and LuPone on screen together . . . goosebumps just thinking about the awesomeness.
How is this typecasting Patti?
The fangirl in me just legit squealed. I’m so excited to see this.
I will be tuning into this episode for sure. Lupone is the best Mrs. Lovett ever; hopefully she’ll get to sing when she’s on the show.
On stern they played a tape of her going on some guy because he took a picture of her. Man she sounds like a beeyotch! Hey patti quit pretending you’re a star!!!
perfect!
Ariel, Patti Lupone IS a star, and much more talented than most of the so-called “stars” out there today.
Yeah, I’m pretty sure 2 Tonys and a beavy of memorable roles for over, oh, 30 years or so makes someone a star.
But wow, Jon Hamm AND Patti LuPone? Someone at 30 Rock likes me!
The notion of it makes me laugh out loud!
OMG YES I LOVE PATTI I CAN’T WAIT (:
I wonder if they’ll make any mentions of Jenna’s production of Evita.
the best of both worlds. seriously.