The Ultimate Frasier Reboot Twist That Fans Can't Miss!

Warning! Spoilers ahead for the Frasier reboot.

Summary

The Frasier reboot pilot rectifies a previous error from the original series finale by acknowledging Bulldog Briscoe's role in Martin Crane's funeral, paying tribute to his character.

Given Bulldog's significant presence during Frasier's tenure at KACL, it seemed peculiar that he was absent from Frasier's last episode. The reboot offers an insight into the current endeavors of the Seattle crew.

Uncertainty surrounds Bulldog's appearance in the Frasier reboot as numerous original characters will not be returning. Frasier's storyline indicates his continued presence in Seattle, posing difficulties in justifying his appearance in Boston.

The Frasier reboot pilot rectifies one of the major character errors in the original series finale. 19 years ago, Frasier Crane opted to leave Seattle and pursue a romantic relationship with Charlotte in Chicago. With the pressure to deliver a satisfying farewell for the Emmy-award winning comedy series, NBC faced high expectations. Compounded by Cheers' outstanding concluding episode, Frasier managed to create a memorable finale that neatly tied up loose ends. However, it fell short of perfection.

Seattle proved to be advantageous for Frasier. In addition to the opportunity it afforded him to reconnect with his father, Martin Crane, and brother, Niles Crane, it also presented him with an intriguing profession. For over a decade, Frasier served as the host of his own radio show at KACL. Transitioning from a monotonous private practice, being a radiotherapist allowed him to have a wider influence and establish a public identity. Working at the radio station also facilitated his encounters with new individuals. Naturally, when he bid farewell to his show, everyone attended the event, with the exception of one notable individual — Bob "Bulldog" Briscoe.

Seattle served Frasier well. Aside from the fact that it gave him the chance to reconnect with his father, Martin Crane, and brother, Niles Crane, it also provided him with an interesting job. For more than a decade, Frasier hosted his own radio show at KACL. As someone who grew bored with practicing privately, being a radiotherapist allowed him to have a broader reach, not to mention establish a public persona. Working at the radio station also paved the way for him to meet new people. Naturally, when he hosted his final show, everyone was there, except for one notable absence — Bob "Bulldog" Briscoe.

Frasier's Reboot Gives A Fitting Mention Of Bulldog Briscoe

Bulldog, the host of the "Gonzo Sports Show" on KACL, was a regular presence on the original Frasier, particularly in its early seasons. In contrast to Frasier, Bulldog was brash, boisterous, and occasionally impolite. He persistently pursued Roz romantically and ridiculed Frasier for his disinterest in sports and other traditionally masculine pursuits. While Bulldog cannot be considered a friend of Frasier's, he played a significant role during Frasier's tenure at KACL. Therefore, it was peculiar that he did not make an appearance in the final episode of "The Frasier Crane Show," despite the presence of characters like Gil Chesterton.

In the Frasier reboot pilot episode, titled "The Good Father," the revival makes up for the previous omission by offering a much-needed update on Bulldog. Frasier and his adult son, Freddy, finally have a sincere conversation about their relationship, specifically addressing Freddy's absence from his grandfather's funeral in Seattle. Although the Frasier reboot does not provide a detailed account of the funeral, Frasier mentions that Daphne gave a speech while Bulldog supposedly performed "Ave Maria."

While the show does not delve further into Bulldog's involvement, the mention of his name and confirmation of his role in Martin's farewell serves as a fitting tribute to the character. In addition to catching up with the titular character's life over the past two decades, it is only appropriate that the Frasier reboot also updates viewers on the activities of his former Seattle companions. The fact that Bulldog was involved in Martin's funeral implies that he has become a close friend of the Cranes after Frasier's departure from Emerald City.

Why Wasn't Bulldog In Frasier's Finale?

Bulldog played a consistent role in Frasier's initial seasons at KACL. He would often march into the booth after the conclusion of "The Frasier Crane Show" with his gear, as the "Gonzo Sports Show" took over the time slot. However, after being dismissed from the radio show, he only made occasional appearances, mainly in relation to his connection with Roz. Interestingly, in the final season, he was brought back to oversee the maintenance of the KACL archives. This makes his absence in Frasier's last show all the more intriguing. It is worth mentioning that no official explanation has been provided for this.

Will Bulldog Briscoe Be In The Frasier Reboot?

The majority of the original characters will not be returning for the Frasier reboot. David Hyde Pierce and Jane Leeves, who were both asked to reprise their roles as Niles and Daphne, declined the idea. Additionally, the absence of Martin is attributed to the unfortunate passing of John Mahoney in 2018. Only Peri Gilpin's Roz has been confirmed to make a comeback, although in a guest capacity. Considering these circumstances, it is unlikely that Bulldog will be featured in the Frasier reboot. From a narrative perspective, Frasier's story about Martin's funeral establishes that he is still residing in Seattle. Consequently, it will be challenging to justify a visit to Boston without a compelling reason, despite the appeal.

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