Frasier's Epic Reboot: A Game-Changing Solution to its Original Series Mishap

Summary

The Frasier reboot attempts to address the missing call-in problem from the original show but ultimately fails to solve it.

Frasier's fame hampers his effectiveness as a teacher since students only enrolled in his class because of his public image.

The revival faces difficulties in finding a suitable replacement for the original show's call-in segment because Frasier is hesitant to give advice and because the transition from radio to television poses challenges in the entertainment industry.

Caution! The Frasier reboot episode 3 contains spoilers.

Despite trying to address the major flaw of the original series, the Frasier reboot episode 3 disappoints. Frasier Crane has already settled into his new residence and living situation with Freddy, allowing him to dedicate himself to his fresh opportunity in Boston: teaching at Harvard. However, as he eagerly anticipates his new position as an educator in this prestigious institution, he finds himself haunted by his former life in Chicago. Finally, the Frasier reboot grants viewers a peek into what his existence had been like in the Windy City.

Frasier has always enjoyed a life of luxury due to his successful private practice. After relocating to Chicago, he further increased his wealth by hosting a radio show as Dr. Crane. However, in the Frasier reboot pilot, he made the decision to step away from this role in search of a fresh start. Although Frasier has moved on from his celebrity status, episode 3 of the Frasier reboot, titled "First Class," provides a glimpse into his previous occupation. This not only fills in the gaps in the storyline but also addresses the major issue left unresolved by the original series. Unfortunately, these efforts were unsuccessful.

Frasier's Talk Show Class Tries To Address Its Missing Call-In Problem

Despite his newfound wealth, Frasier has chosen to forgo retirement and serve his community as a teacher. However, his celebrity status proves to be a hindrance as students only enrolled in his class to seek guidance from his public persona. Rather than catering to their expectations, Frasier firmly asserts that his role is solely to educate them, rejecting the notion of providing advice. To illustrate his desire to shed his old identity, Frasier presents clips from his previous show, "Dr. Crane," which initially focused on genuine advice. Witnessing Frasier's expertise in dispensing practical and effective guidance is refreshing, as his television program gradually shifted toward a superficial talk show that prioritized entertainment rather than truly assisting individuals with their problems. This is precisely why he yearns to distance himself from it.

Why Frasier Struggles To Replace The Original's Radio Show

Frasier's reluctance to embrace his former public persona as Dr. Crane poses a challenge for the reboot in replacing the original show's call-in segment. He is clear about his disinterest in giving advice or analyzing situations in the new Frasier. Instead, it is Alan who steps in to assist him with his problems.

Furthermore, the modern era presents difficulties in replicating Frasier's KACL radio show. Radio is no longer the dominant form of entertainment it once was, and even though it remains a thriving industry, it is highly unlikely that Frasier will be willing to return to it after hosting a successful television series.

Can Frasier's Reboot Fix Its Talk Show Problem?

Niles enjoyed teasing Frasier about his job as a radiotherapist in Seattle, but in reality, it was one of the best aspects of the original show. By answering calls from strangers seeking advice, Frasier showcased his eagerness to help others and also provided an opportunity for the series to feature celebrities in a clever way. Throughout its 11-season run, Frasier's callers mostly consisted of renowned figures like Christopher Reeve and Helen Mirren. It is disappointing that the Frasier reboot does not bring back this element, but that doesn't mean they can't incorporate something similar in a different way.

Frasier's hesitation to offer guidance stems from his past experiences as Dr. Crane. However, if he can do so without seeking recognition or reward, perhaps he can explore this concept in the new show. Instead of being a teacher, Frasier could take on the role of a guidance counselor at Harvard, enabling him to formally guide students and even his colleagues through the challenges of life. Alternatively, he could delve into the world of podcasting in the Fraiser reboot, which serves as a modernized version of radio.

The Frasier reboot airs new episodes every Thursday on Paramount+.