The Unforgettable Frasier Reboot: Addressing the Original Show's Biggest Flaw 30 Years On

Warning! Spoilers ahead for the Frasier reboot pilot.

Summary

The original Frasier had a lack of diversity, as there were no characters of color in the main cast and minimal representation throughout the show's duration.

The Frasier reboot tackles this problem by introducing Olivia and Eve, two female characters of color, signaling the possibility of more diverse storylines in the future.

Olivia and Eve possess the potential to develop into fully-realized characters in their own unique ways. Olivia has already established herself as a respected academic, while Eve aspires to make a name for herself as an actress.

The Frasier reboot is addressing a major flaw from the original series three decades later. As a spin-off of Cheers, Frasier had a difficult act to follow, but against all odds, the show triumphed. It holds the record for the most Emmy wins in the comedy category, a testament to its consistently exceptional quality throughout its 11-year run. What enhances its critical acclaim is the fact that it was also adored by audiences. Despite its beloved status, Frasier wasn't without flaws, and the new revival offers the opportunity to rectify some of the shortcomings from its initial run.

The Original Frasier Lacked Diversity

Distinguishing himself from his predecessors, Frasier focused primarily on the familial aspects of his life in Seattle, his hometown. In addition to reconnecting with his father, Martin, and brother, Niles, Frasier immersed himself in the city's social scene, meeting new people and rediscovering the essence of his hometown. Despite frequenting Cafe Nervosa and exploring various dining experiences, the show failed to truly capture the authentic essence of Seattle due to one crucial storytelling flaw.

The original Frasier failed to represent diversity effectively. Not only did its main cast lack any person of color (POC) characters, but it also seldom showcased them throughout its more than a decade-long run. When POC characters did appear, it was predominantly in the roles of baristas and waitstaff at Cafe Nervosa. Moreover, when the show did introduce a Black character in Dr. Mary, it did so in a stereotypical manner, exemplified by Frasier mimicking an exaggerated portrayal of a Black woman's anger. Given that Seattle was already a culturally diverse city in the '90s, this portrayal fell short of expectations.

How The Frasier Reboot Makes Up For Its Predecessor’s Issue

In light of its impressive legacy, revisiting Frasier carries significant risks. As a result, David Hyde Pierce declined the opportunity to reprise his beloved role as Niles in the reboot. Nonetheless, this revival also presents an opportunity for Grammer and Paramount+ to bring about positive changes. One notable improvement is the inclusion of more diverse characters. In the Frasier reboot, two primary characters are women of color: Olivia, portrayed by Toks Olagundoye, and Eve, portrayed by Jess Salguiero. Only time will reveal how their narratives unfold, but the pilot suggests that they will play a crucial role in the show's future.

If there are no cast changes in future seasons of the Frasier reboot, both Olivia and Eve have the potential to develop into well-rounded characters individually. Olivia has already gained recognition in academia as the chair of Harvard's psychiatry department. Eve, on the other hand, is an aspiring actress who works as a bartender. It is important that their personal lives are thoroughly explored in the new show, beyond their connection to Frasier.