The Frasier Reboot: Uncovering the Untold Secrets Behind His Cheers Role!

Summary

In the Frasier revival, Frasier Crane's homecoming to Boston brings forth a fresh gathering place akin to Cafe Nervosa and Cheers, indicating his departure from his former watering hole.

Frasier's choice to patronize a new establishment suggests that he never truly belonged at Cheers, where he was often the target of their jokes and sought solace in a more sophisticated lifestyle in Seattle.

While it would be pleasing for fans to witness Frasier returning to Cheers, the revival should concentrate on carving its own path and honoring the original Seattle show, rather than heavily depending on references to Cheers.

Frasier Crane's latest pub in the Frasier revival sheds light on his role in Cheers. Kelsey Grammer's return as the sophisticated psychiatrist is scheduled for October 2023 after various delays. Paramount+ has unveiled their initial promotional materials, including stills that provide a glimpse of Frasier's return to Boston. The fact that the character will be spending his fourth act at his former Cheers stomping grounds has sparked speculation about whether Sam Malone's pub will be featured in the project. Unfortunately, despite the demand, it seems unlikely that the Frasier revival will include the iconic pub.

Before branching off into his own series, Grammer's Frasier initially appeared as a guest star on Cheers, playing Diane's rebound boyfriend after her breakup with Sam. He quickly captivated viewers with his unique character, setting him apart from the regular barflies at Cheers. Even after Diane's departure, he remained a main cast member. While Frasier had his own dedicated fan base, the decision to give him his own Cheers spin-off was a daring move that ultimately paid off. Now, three decades after leaving Boston for Seattle, Frasier is returning to New England. However, recent images from the Frasier revival suggest that he won't be frequenting his old drinking spot.

Frasier Hangs Out In A New Boston Bar In The Revival

Returning to Boston, Frasier is not only revisiting his unfulfilled dreams but also reconnecting with old acquaintances. The upcoming Paramount+ project will witness his reunion with college buddy Alan Cornwall, as well as his efforts to mend his strained relationship with his adult son, Freddy. Similar to the original Frasier series, the new project necessitates a go-to hangout spot for the protagonist. While Sam's pub may appear to be the obvious choice, the Frasier revival unveils a fresh location - one that combines elements of Seattle's Cafe Nervosa and Cheers.

Limited information has been disclosed about this new establishment thus far. However, in a specific promotional still, Frasier can be seen enjoying a beer at this new place with Alan and Olivia, the head of the university's psychology department where they both work. It is highly likely that they will frequent this tavern. Despite its offering of alcoholic beverages, the establishment is reminiscent of Cafe Nervosa, with its round tables and book-filled shelves, indicating that it may be in close proximity to an academic institution. Interestingly, Frasier has returned to drinking pints, a practice he seldom indulged in when he lived in the Pacific Northwest.

The Revival Not Returning To Cheers Reveals Frasier’s Boston Tragedy

Since the Frasier reboot takes place in Boston, it seems appropriate for Frasier to revisit the Cheers bar, assuming it still exists. It has been quite some time since we last heard about it, and there is a possibility that Sam may have sold or closed it. Until the Paramount+ series confirms its status, we should assume that Cheers is still in operation. However, this raises questions as to why Frasier chooses not to visit the pub. From a narrative perspective, Frasier returning to Cheers would bring his character full circle, as it was where he began his television career.

Frasier's decision to spend his time drinking beer at a different location and not revisiting his old pub reveals the unfortunate truth about his time at Cheers: he never really fit in with Sam and the other regulars. Despite frequenting the iconic establishment and engaging in conversations with his fellow barflies, Frasier always remained on the outskirts. He was never able to fully integrate himself, a fact that Cheers often hinted at by making him the target of their jokes. The bar was laughing at him, not with him.

Why Frasier Is Better Off Not Hanging Out In Cheers

Frasier's time in Seattle further illustrates that he never truly belonged in Cheers. Upon returning home, he effortlessly shed his Bostonian habits, trading nights of drinking for evenings immersed in opera or indulging in exquisite dining experiences at exclusive restaurants. His preference for wine, sherry, or port over beer accentuates the notion that Frasier purposely reinvented himself to fit in at Cheers. Ultimately, though, he proved unsuccessful in his endeavor.

For long-time fans familiar with Frasier's New England beginnings, the return of the character to Cheers is sure to be a delightful surprise. However, in the larger scheme of things, it is preferable for the Frasier revival to avoid revisiting the bar, at least in its initial season. As a revived series, the paramount focus should lie in establishing its own identity rather than solely honoring a different sitcom. Moreover, when paying homage, the revival should primarily acknowledge the original Seattle show, which played a more significant role in exploring Frasier's personal life than its parent sitcom.

It's also hard to believe that the rest of the Cheers cast will be able to make a cameo in the show. It wouldn't be worth it if the bar returned without any familiar faces. Sam and the rest of the ensemble have experienced significant changes in their lives since their last appearance on screen. While it's possible that they still hang out in their regular spot, seeing them all in their old age, engaging in late-night drinking and immature behavior like they did three decades ago, would be quite disheartening.

Will The Frasier Revival Ever Feature Cheers?

While Grammer did not confirm that the Frasier revival would feature a visit to Cheers, he hinted that it would be acknowledged in some way. Currently, referencing the show seems to be the best approach to pay homage, as physically revisiting it could raise further inquiries about the Cheers cast. Perhaps this is something the project can explore in the future if Paramount+ orders additional seasons beyond its initial 10-episode run.

Bebe Neuwirth's guest appearance in the Frasier revival presents an opportunity to mention Cheers, as both shows have a connection through their time spent at Sam's bar thirty years ago. Perhaps Frasier's planned visit to Cheers could involve Lilith. If that doesn't pan out, the Frasier revival could bring back one or two characters from Cheers to catch up with Frasier. This allows the new show to pay homage to the iconic NBC sitcom without necessarily featuring its titular bar.