AsFrasiermakes its illustrious comeback, it’s the depth ofKelsey Grammer’s connection to it that stands out prominently. Recently, Paramount+ shared an intimate moment with Grammer addressing a live studio audience before the filming of an episode. As he stepped on the familiar set, embodying the timeless radio psychiatrist Frasier Crane once more, the applause that greeted him was deafening. There wasn’t just appreciation in the room; there was love, nostalgia, and above all, gratitude. And this gratitude was mutual.
“I’m delighted you’re here,” began an emotional Grammer, “I can’t tell you how grateful I am that you’re here and how grateful we are that we have a chance to do this for you again.” The actor’s voice brimming with emotion, he spoke of the new cast members and how they’ve been working tirelessly to create something “quite lovely”. “I am very excited about what we’re doing, this new group of people that you can fall in love with and get to know. We’ve been working so hard at this thing, and it’s been quite a while, and I think we’ve done something quite lovely,” Grammer said.
For Grammer, the role of Frasier Crane isn’t just a part he played; it’s a part of who he is. Holding back tears, he shared, “My love for this character is very sweet. I wish you this!” As for the challenges of reprising such a well-known role after a considerable gap, Grammer mused, “What’s shocking is he’s just as fresh and alive as any regular human being would be.” The depth of the character, it seems, still fascinates him.
The longevity of the character is, in part, a testament to its original portrayal. Between 1993 and 2004, Grammer’s portrayal of Frasier earned him critical acclaim and numerous Emmy Awards. As a spinoff from Cheers,Frasieritself became an even more cherished sitcom, defining a generation of TV watchers.
Watch theBehind-The-Scenes videobelow:
Frasier Posters & Trailer Tease the Paramount+ Revival of the Beloved Sitcom
Kelsey Grammer’s Frasier Crane takes center stage in new posters for the upcoming revival.
Honoring Legacy, Embracing New Twists: How Frasier’s Return Pays Tribute and Pushes Boundaries
The rebootpromises a few exciting twists. Fans can anticipate Frasier’s return to Boston, a shift from the original series' Seattle setting. Additionally, a journey to Chicago unfolds as Frasier seeks to mend his bond with estranged son Freddy, played by Jack Cutmore-Scott.
The new series doesn’t just offer a fresh storyline; it brings back familiar faces. Bebe Neuwirth and Peri Gilpin, who fans remember as Lilith Sternin and Roz Doyle respectively, are set to return. Moreover, Grammer’s assurance that the reboot will be even more hilarious than the original only heightens expectations.
A touching element of the reboot is its tribute to John Mahoney, the late actor who immortalized Frasier’s father, Martin. “The Good Father”, the title of the pilot episode, along with a bar that becomes a regular hangout, both stand asheartfelt nods to Mahoney’s lasting impact.
The new series boasts of an ensemble cast including Jess Salgueiro, Anders Keith, Toks Olagundoye, and Nicholas Lyndhurst. And for the fans who’ve hummed along to the ending credits all these years, a rejuvenated version of Grammer’s iconic song awaits.
Grammer’s words to his fans resonate deeply, “Frasier lives on so, so does Kelsey. Thank you.” For lovers of the series, the sentiment is mutual. The curtains rise again on Oct. 12 with a special two-episode premiere, a date many have already circled on their calendars.
