Long-time fans of the beloved sitcom, Frasier, have a reason to rejoice. The show, which first aired in 1993 and ran for an impressive 11 seasons, is getting a reboot. Yes, you heard it right — Frasier Crane, played by the inimitable Kelsey Grammer, is making a comeback in a sequel series that promises to reignite the spark of the original while adding fresh elements to keep audiences hooked.
A Brief History of Frasier
Frasier Crane first appeared on the NBC sitcom Cheers as a recurring character in the third season. He was so popular with viewers that he was spun off into his own show, Frasier, in 1993.
The original Frasier ran for 11 seasons and 264 episodes. It was a critical and commercial success, winning 37 Primetime Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Comedy Series five times.
Frasier was a witty and sophisticated comedy that explored the lives of well-educated, upper-middle-class characters. The show was known for its sharp writing, memorable characters, and stellar cast.
Plot
The plot of the Frasier reboot is still being kept under wraps, but it is said to follow Frasier as he starts a new chapter in his life in Boston. He will be joined by a new cast of characters, including his son, Freddy, and his college friend, Alan.
The show’s creators have said that they want to explore Frasier’s life as a single man in his 60s. They are also interested in exploring the changing dynamics of his relationships with his friends and family.
Cast
In the reboot, Kelsey Grammer reprises his iconic role as Dr. Frasier Crane. As the only original cast member returning as a series regular for the new series, Grammer is set to infuse the character with the same charisma and wit that made Frasier Crane a household name.
New Faces
The sequal will also see a number of new cast members .
The reboot is not merely a rerun of the original series. It introduces new characters and dynamics that add a fresh spin to the narrative. Let’s take a look at the new and returning faces in the Frasier universe.
Jack Cutmore-Scott as Freddy Crane
Stepping into the role of Frasier’s grown-up son, Freddy, is actor Jack Cutmore-Scott. The character was previously portrayed by Luke Tarsitano and Trevor Einhorn in the original show. Freddy’s presence is a focal point of the reboot, with Frasier’s return to Boston primarily motivated by his desire to reconnect with his son.
Nicholas Lyndhurst as Alan
Stage actor Nicholas Lyndhurst plays Alan, an old college friend of Frasier who is now a professor. Lyndhurst and Grammer share a history, having starred together in a London production of Man of La Mancha in 2019.
Toks Olagundoye as Olivia
Playing the role of Olivia, Alan’s colleague and the head of the university’s psychology department, is Toks Olagundoye. The actress has a string of impressive credits to her name, including roles in The Neighbours, Castle, and DuckTales.
Jess Salgueiro as Eve
Jess Salgueiro portrays Eve, Freddy’s roommate. The talented actress has been part of successful shows like Tiny Pretty Things, The Boys, Letterkenny, Workin’ Moms, The Expanse, and more.
Anders Keith as David Crane
The reboot introduces a new character, David Crane, who is the son of Niles Crane and Daphne Moon. Played by Anders Keith, this character is set to add a new dimension to the narrative.
Returning Faces
Bebe Neuwirth as Dr. Lilith Sternin
Bebe Neuwirth is set to reprise her role as Frasier’s ex-wife, Dr. Lilith Sternin. The character’s return is bound to add a dash of drama to the narrative.
Peri Gilpin as Roz
Peri Gilpin, who played the role of Roz, the producer for Frasier Crane’s radio show, is set to make a guest appearance in the reboot.
Tribute to the late John Mahoney
The reboot promises to honor the legacy of the original series in a variety of ways. One of the highlights is the tribute to the late John Mahoney, who played Frasier’s father, Martin Crane. As Grammer shares, there will be several nods to Mahoney’s character sprinkled throughout the show, ensuring that his memory is honored in the best possible way.
Why Niles won’t be part of the show
David Hyde Pierce has said that he is not interested in returning to the role of Niles Crane in the Frasier reboot. He has cited a number of reasons for his decision, including the fact that he is now 63 years old and that he does not want to commit to a long-term project.
Pierce has also said that he is not sure how Niles would fit into the new show. He believes that Niles’s character arc was completed in the original series, and that there is not much more to explore.
Release Date
The 10-episode season is set to premiere on October 12 on Paramount+, with two episodes being released on the debut day. New episodes will be released weekly on Thursdays. In addition, the first two episodes will also air on CBS on October 17, ensuring that even those without a Paramount+ subscription can enjoy the return of Frasier Crane.
Trailer
The first trailer for the reboot, released in September 2023, shows Frasier struggling to reconnect with his son after turning up unannounced at his doorstep. The ensuing hilarity, along with the iconic Frasier charm, is sure to leave audiences eagerly awaiting the premiere.
