While it's exciting to see Kelsey Grammer reprising his role as the snobby psychiatrist, the return of Frasier on a streaming service poses a risk to the original show's legacy. Two decades have passed since Grammer last portrayed Frasier Crane in the beloved Seattle-based series, and now he is set to bring the iconic character back to the small screen. Not only will he star in the project, but he is also taking on the role of producer and is involved in the creative process behind the scenes.
Reviving Frasier was not an easy task, despite the success of the original show. Grammer revealed that it took him years to find a platform willing to host the project. Additionally, even after the official announcement by Paramount+, the revival faced numerous challenges, including the difficulty of developing an engaging premise. The coronavirus pandemic further exacerbated these setbacks, causing significant delays. While Grammer expresses confidence in the series, there is understandable skepticism surrounding it, as it has the potential to tarnish the outstanding reputation of its predecessor.
8 Frasier's Reboot Is Missing Major Original Characters
The lack of original cast members in the Frasier reboot is a major concern for many fans. Apart from Grammer, none of the Seattle-based show's other actors will be regulars in the Paramount+ project. Unfortunately, John Mahoney has passed away, and there are no plans to recast Martin Crane. Additionally, both David Hyde Pierce and Jane Leeves have declined the opportunity to be part of the sitcom once again.
Peri Gilpin will make a guest appearance as Roz, while Bebe Neuwirth's Lilith will also have a limited role. The ensemble played a crucial role in the success of the original Frasier, raising doubts about whether the revival can achieve the same level of excellence without these beloved characters.
7 Frasier's Reboot Doesn't Understand What Made Frasier Work
Grammar made an audacious claim that the revival of Frasier surpasses its predecessor in terms of comedy. While this is highly motivating because nobody wants to watch a dull sitcom, comedic brilliance alone cannot guarantee the success of the reboot. As mentioned earlier, the absence of the original cast members will certainly have an impact, particularly considering that the dynamic chemistry among the ensemble was a key factor in the triumph of the Cheers spin-off. Besides that, the original Frasier show successfully maintained a delicate balance between humor and heartwarming moments, a commendable achievement that is not easily accomplished.
6 Does Frasier Actually Work In The 2020s?
In contrast to other sitcoms, the original Frasier strategically limited its references to real-life events. With a primary focus on its own stories, it has managed to age more gracefully than many shows of its time, with the exception of the turn of the millennium. However, while Frasier as a character remains timeless, his profession as a radiotherapist is no longer a viable career choice in today's world. Viewing the original series through a modern lens may reveal certain elements that could be considered outdated.
5 Frasier's Ending Was Actually Good
After spending 11 years in Seattle, Frasier decided it was time to embark on a new chapter in his life. Seeing his brother Niles and father Martin finding love again, Frasier saw an opportunity and chose to join Charlotte in Chicago. However, before leaving the Pacific Northwest, he made sure to tie up loose ends. Surprisingly, the series left the fate of Frasier and Charlotte's relationship in a cliffhanger, leaving fans hopeful for a happy ending. Unfortunately, the Frasier revival will have the task of revealing the true outcome of their romance, which may not live up to fans' expectations.
4 The Frasier Reboot Could Make Frasier's Life A Tragedy
Despite having a titular character, the Frasier series set in Seattle was actually an ensemble. Each main character had their own storylines and by the end of the show, it was evident that everyone had evolved, except for Frasier. Although he was pursuing Charlotte in the finale, his subsequent move to Boston in the Frasier revival strongly implies that their relationship didn't work out. This leaves him still alone after four decades since his initial introduction. If he continues to display the same arrogance in the reboot, it indicates a lack of personal growth.
3 The Frasier Reboot Could Ruin Frasier's Seattle Relationships
In order to compensate for the absence of the original Frasier ensemble, Paramount+ must introduce a number of new characters to complement the main character played by Grammer. One of these new additions is Alan Cornwall, played by Nicholas Lyndhurst, who is presented as Frasier's very first friend. This runs the risk of diminishing the importance of Roz, the character from the original show. Despite what Grammer may assert, the producer of Frasier's radio show at KACL ultimately became more than just a colleague over their ten-year professional partnership. They experienced a lot together and developed a dynamic that went beyond being peers in their industry.
Apart from Roz, the revival of Frasier could also potentially harm Frasier's relationship with his brother, Niles. Throughout the show's duration, the dynamic between the two brothers was at the core of its storytelling. While the physical distance between them would make it more challenging to catch up, it is inconceivable that Niles would not make the effort to visit Frasier in Boston. The situation is worsened by the fact that Niles and Daphne's son, David, also resides in Northern England.
2 Frasier's Reboot Could Undermine Frasier's Boston Origins
One of the initial aspects confirmed regarding the Frasier revival is its specific location. In his fourth and final chapter, Frasier is making a comeback to Boston to ostensibly resolve unresolved matters left behind when he relocated to Seattle in the early '90s. Grammer has been relatively elusive about the inclusion of his former Cheers colleagues in his upcoming venture. Nevertheless, if some of them were able to visit Frasier during his time in Seattle, there seems to be no reason why they cannot make brief guest appearances in the new series.
1 What If Paramount+ Cancels Frasier's Reboot Without A Proper Ending?
Paramount+ has approved the initial 10 episodes of the Frasier revival. Although there's a possibility of the series being renewed for a second season, there's also a risk of an abrupt cancellation. The direction taken by Grammer and his team in establishing the beginning of the new series determines the potential for a season 1 finale with a gripping cliffhanger, which may remain unresolved if Paramount+ decides to halt the project. As mentioned earlier, the original series concluded impressively despite its cliffhanger, so failing to deliver in this aspect in the revival would be a significant letdown.