Key Highlights:
- French Stewart publicly defended his former co-star Anna Faris following online criticism.
- Stewart portrayed Chef Rudy, the overzealous culinary boss to Faris’ character, Christy Plunkett, across seven seasons of the CBS sitcom Mom.
- Reflecting on their long-running collaboration, Stewart emphasized that he still considers Faris to be like family.
French Stewart Speaks Out in Support of Former Co-Star Anna Faris
Actor French Stewart has stepped forward to publicly support Anna Faris, reaffirming the enduring bond forged during their years working together on television. Stewart, recognized by audiences for his long-running role on the hit CBS comedy Mom, took to social media to back Faris after she faced public commentary and online scrutiny.
On the critically acclaimed Chuck Lorre sitcom, Stewart played Chef Rudy, the eccentric and demanding head chef at the rustic restaurant where Farisā lead character, Christy Plunkett, worked as a server. The dynamic between their characters served as a prominent comedic element across seven seasons, anchoring the workplace storylines that balanced the show’s exploration of recovery, family dynamics, and personal redemption.
A Lasting Bond Beyond the Set of CBS Sitcom Mom
Despite the high-pressure environment of network television production, the relationships formed on the set of Mom have endured long after the series concluded. Stewart made it clear that his professional connection with Faris evolved into a lasting personal loyalty, noting that he still considers Faris like family. That close relationship prompted him to actively defend her online when negative discussions surfaced.
Faris, who anchored the series alongside Allison Janney from its debut in 2013 until her departure ahead of the eighth and final season, shared extensive screen time with Stewart. The ensemble cast was widely praised throughout the show’s run for their on-screen chemistry, which was reflected in the genuine camaraderie shared by the actors behind the scenes.
Why This Matters
Public discourse surrounding television stars frequently unfolds on social media platforms, where cast members occasionally step in to counter online narratives. Stewart’s vocal defense of Faris highlights the deep professional and personal alliances that often persist among long-term sitcom ensembles. Mom was widely recognized for tackling sensitive issues such as addiction, relapse, and socioeconomic struggle with nuance, and the solidarity among its veteran cast members continues to resonate with fans of the Chuck Lorre multi-camera production.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was French Stewart’s role on Mom?
French Stewart played Chef Rudy, the arrogant, fiery, and overzealous head chef at the restaurant where Anna Faris’ character, Christy Plunkett, worked for seven seasons on the CBS comedy series.
Why did French Stewart defend Anna Faris on social media?
Stewart defended Faris online following recent public commentary and scrutiny, explaining that having worked together for years on Mom, he still considers her to be like family.
How long did Anna Faris and French Stewart work together?
The two actors collaborated across seven seasons of the CBS sitcom Mom, appearing together from the early seasons of the show until Faris departed the series prior to its eighth season.




