Niles' Shocking Absence in Frasier Reboot Episode 3: A Major Disappointment

Warning! Spoilers ahead for the Frasier reboot episode 3.

Summary

Niles' absence in the Frasier reboot is duly recognized, intensifying the impact on the show's dynamic. Frasier episode 3 serves as a poignant reminder of the significance of Frasier and Niles' connection, emphasizing what the new series is lacking.

While David Hyde Pierce has declined to reprise his role as Niles in the revival of Frasier, there is a possibility of him making a guest appearance in potential future seasons of the show.

The Frasier reboot's initial two episodes focused on establishing Frasier's new life in Boston and updating the audience on his experiences over the past 19 years. Before his return to Beantown, he made a brief stop in Seattle for Martin Crane's funeral, which included a heartfelt toast from Daphne and an unexpected performance by Bulldog. Interestingly, "The Good Father" and "Moving In" did not mention anything about Niles. In episode 3 of Frasier, titled "First Class," Niles' current endeavors remain undisclosed, but the episode serves as a reminder of his integral role in the success of the original show.

Frasier Remembers Niles - And Confirms The Show Would Be Better With Him

Frasier grapples with establishing a bond with his Harvard students after realizing their sole interest lies in seeking his advice for personal dilemmas. Olivia, the esteemed head of the university's psychiatry department, covertly urges him to embrace his fame, covertly desiring him to serve as a mere spectacle rather than a genuine educator. To complicate matters further, she catches Frasier off guard by orchestrating a Dr. Crane scenario during one of his classes. Evidently, Olivia's ardent determination to retain Frasier's presence at Harvard stems from her rivalry with her newly appointed sister, who now holds the position of provost at Yale. She proceeds to discuss the intricacies of maintaining a highly competitive relationship with a sibling.

Could Niles Eventually Appear In The Frasier Reboot?

In the original Seattle-based show, Frasier was well acquainted with this dynamic. Despite their strong bond, Frasier and Niles had a rivalry as siblings that sometimes became overly intense. The absence of this bond in episode 3 of the Frasier reboot serves as a reminder of what the new show is lacking. The old show primarily revolved around their relationship, yielding numerous exceptional episodes. Their competitiveness only emphasized the profound love they held for each other. While they faced difficulties understanding their father, they had no trouble connecting with one another. Unfortunately, this connection is missing in the revival.

Despite Pierce's long-standing opposition to the revival of Frasier, it comes as no surprise that he chose not to participate in the Paramount+ reboot. However, it is worth noting that the possibility of his return remains open. With the narrative conveniently set up for his comeback, thanks to his son David now residing in Boston and having regular interactions with Frasier, Pierce could easily make a guest appearance rather than rejoining the cast full-time. This mirrors the approach taken by Bebe Neuwirth and Peri Gilpin in the show's original season. It is important to emphasize that Niles' reappearance would only occur in potential future seasons of the Frasier reboot, if indeed it is renewed.

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