When we first reconnect with Frasier Crane in the Frasier revival, the character is thriving. Since his departure from Seattle at the end of the original Frasier series in 2004, he has hosted a popular TV talk show for years in Chicago. The Boston-set update shows Frasier exuding more confidence than ever.
He’s certainly refined and more comfortable in his own skin,
Grammer says of his on-screen alter ego, first seen on Cheers in 1984. He’s a fuller man than he used to be.
The same might be said for Grammer himself. Having played Frasier for four decades, their paths are inextricably linked. However, Grammer reflects on his own evolution too.I’m excited about life today in a way that I never was before,
he says. The work I do makes me feel this way.
Kelsey Grammer Reflects on His Journey
Revisiting Frasier for Paramount+ has given Grammer plenty of reason to reflect on his journey through public highs and lows. Comparing himself to Frasier, he appears sanguine about this stage of life. As Grammer puts it: I’d hate to speak out of turn and say nothing can come along and smack you at the side of the head. But I do know this: I’ll deal with it.
The Impact of Long-Time Colleagues
This reminiscing extends to old colleagues such as James Burrows, who directed the original Frasier. Burrows is back to helm the first two episodes of Season 2. He trusts me, I trust him,
Grammer shares.
The revival’s Season 1 brought back Bebe Neuwirth (Lilith) and Peri Gilpin (Roz). Now in Season 2, Roz is contemplating leaving Seattle and her daughter Alice will be played by Grammer’s real-life daughter Greer.
A Wish List for Frasier’s Future
Grammer remains eager for more of his former co-stars, including Shelley Long, Ted Danson, Jane Leeves, and David Hyde Pierce, to reprise their roles. I’d still love Shelley to come back and play Diane for one more sense of closure for Frasier,
he says, mentioning how being back in Boston brings tales that connect with past characters.
A New Setting With Classic Ties
The new Frasier isn’t just a retread but brings new elements with a fresh cast and setting as Frasier moves back to Boston to reconnect with his son Freddy (Jack Cutmore-Scott). This dynamic not only refreshes the series but also brings depth by focusing on family relationships akin to those shared between Frasier and his dad Martin (John Mahoney).
A Legacy Continues Far Beyond Cheers
The legacy of these intertwined characters stretches far beyond their original stories. Jane Leeves’ consistent career following her role as Daphne Moon further illustrates this point.
The potential mergers between these past roles and future storylines keep fans intrigued about how classic elements can blend seamlessly into contemporary settings.
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