Jane Lynch Reflects on Best in Show's 25th Anniversary, the National Dog Show, and Her Holiday Tour

Long before terms like pet parent, puppuccinos, and doggie day spas were part of the vernacular, the movie Best in Show became a cult classic. 25 years ago, an ensemble cast navigated a tumultuous dog show world. Jane Lynch gave a memorable performance, and fans still remember it to this day. During a recent conversation with FlickDirect, Lynch recalls some special moments from filming and shares why dogs hold a special place in her heart.

This year, Lynch partnered with Purina, which presents the National Dog Show. Through this collaboration, the talented actor and entertainer graciously answered some questions about the 25th anniversary of Best in Show, her thoughts about dogs, and her upcoming plans for the holidays.

Movie buffs might know the connection between Best in Show and the National Dog Show. In 2001, the satirical film inspired the popular Thanksgiving Day event. While some people might know a Petite Basset from a Norwegian Elkhound, others just cheer for the cutest, fluffiest, or most adorable names of the dogs.

Fans of Best in Show recall that Lynch’s character had some memorable lines about dog food commercials. Since she is working with Purina and the National Dog Show, I asked what her Best in Show character might think about this partnership.

Lynch said, “I’m thrilled to partner with Purina on something so joyful that celebrates the film and a love of pets. I also think my character would be thrilled about this partnership. She’d have notes, suggestions, of course. But it really touches my heart because my wife and I devote so much of our time to animals. We have rescue horses, and we adopt senior dogs. They’re the dogs no one else wants to adopt, but we find that seniors are the best; they’re settled into themselves.”

While Lynch has a soft spot for senior animals, she finds herself pulling for some unlikely contestants in the National Dog Show. When asked who she roots for, she said, “It’s based on vibes for me. I love the dog that messes up a bit, looks a little silly, or a dog with a great smile. But whoever wins, I love it when you can tell that the dog knows it has done a good job. They actually look excited to win!”

Although there can be a few mishaps during the National Dog Show, Lynch revealed a secret about Best In Show. When asked what she remembers fondly about the show, it was her four-legged co-stars that made her smile.

Lynch said, “We never had to cut a scene because a dog misbehaved. Never once! They were so well behaved – never had a dog bark out of turn or do anything they weren’t supposed to do. Also, my relationship with Rhapsody in White was so special; we had a great connection.”

Even though it has been 25 years since Best in Show debuted, it continues to resonate with fans. From the stellar ensemble cast to the iconic lines, people revisit the film and think of it like an old friend.

Lynch shared, “Best in Show is a film that stands up. It really resonates with us as humans and our desire to be top dog. Christopher Guest does such a great job with subcultures. These people in Best in Show are so obsessive, and I think we see that in ourselves and laugh. To enjoy Best in Show, you have to be available to laughing at yourself, and you really never laugh harder than when you see something ridiculous in yourself.”

People might long to be that “top dog,” but it is people’s connection to animals that is universal. As Lynch explained, “dogs are special to us. They’re God’s gift. Over the last 25 years, my relationship with dogs has deepened, and I understand why this movie is so special to pet lovers.”

While dogs are a gift that gives 365 days a year, the holiday season is busy for Lynch. For many lucky fans, her tour is back out on the road.

“I’ve been doing a musical Christmas show for 10 years now. I do it with Kate Flannery, who is Meridith the Drunk in The Office, and we have a beautiful five-piece band. We’ve done it all over the country. You can see where we’re coming at janelynchofficial.com.”

If a tour stop is not close by, Lynch is hosting again. She said, “I also love doing The Weakest Link. It’s Celebrity Weakest Link now, which I think takes it up a level.”

Even though many people can be busy bees during the holidays, take a moment to enjoy the moment while watching the National Dog Show, hosted by the Kennel Club of Philadelphia and presented by Purina, on Thursday, November 27, from noon to 2 p.m. in all time zones on NBC. Or, even rewatch Best in Show. Isn’t it time for everyone to enjoy a few hours of dog-centric entertainment?