On "Gilmore Girls," Rory's best friend, Lane Kim, is a drummer who lives in Stars Hollow. Lane is portrayed by Keiko Agena and remains Rory's closest friend from the beginning of the series through its revival.
Lane grows up under the strict rules of her mother, Mrs. Kim, a Korean American Seventh-day Adventist who runs Kim's Antiques. Because her mother disapproves of rock music, Lane hides her record collection and her passion for drumming. Music becomes her main route to independence and self-expression.
Lane eventually joins the band Hep Alien, playing drums alongside guitarist and singer Zach Van Gerbig and bassist Brian Fuller. Her musical ambitions create tension at home, but her mother gradually becomes more accepting. Lane later marries Zach, and they have twin sons, Kwan and Steve.
Rory's other important friendships include Paris Geller, who begins as a rival at Chilton, and later becomes a close friend. However, Lane is Rory's longtime hometown best friend, making her the canonical answer to this question.