Top Supporting Characters That Made Frasier Memorable

Article Overview

The supporting characters in

Frasier

, such as Eddie the dog and Gertrude Moon, added depth and relatability to the show's world.

Sherry Dempsey and Kenny Daly added their own distinct personalities to the main cast, enhancing its growth.

The show was made even more entertaining and dynamic with the inclusion of memorable characters such as Julia Wilcox, Noel Shempsky, and Gil Chesterton, who brought comedic elements to the mix.

The beloved supporting characters from the original '90s sitcom Frasier still hold a special place in the hearts of fans. Spanning from 1993 to 2004, the show revolved around Frasier Crane (Kelsey Grammer), Niles (David Hyde Pierce), Martin (John Mahoney), Roz Doyle (Peri Gilpin), and Daphne Moon (Jane Leeves). These main characters were complemented by a stellar supporting cast that helped bring depth and relatability to the show. Whether it was Martin's faithful companion Eddie or Daphne's endearing mother Gertrude, each character added something unique to the mix. Some of the side characters even outshone the main cast in terms of popularity and love, such as Frasier's cold ex-wife Lilith, his deviously cunning agent Bebe, or the boisterous sports radio host Bulldog. Undoubtedly, the outstanding supporting characters in Frasier played a significant role in solidifying its status as one of the greatest sitcoms of all time.

10. Eddie

Played By Moose

Eddie, the adorable Jack Russell Terrier owned by Martin Crane in the sitcom Frasier, captured the hearts of viewers with his delightful on-screen moments. From his deadpan stares to his silly antics, Eddie's presence added a unique and endearing touch to the show. His interactions with the Crane family, especially Martin, created charming and memorable scenes. Despite not uttering a single word, Eddie's constant presence brought immense joy to both the characters and the audience. Interestingly, Moose, the dog who portrayed Eddie, wasn't particularly fond of his co-stars. Surprisingly, this actually worked in favor of scenes where Eddie had differences or conflicts with other Frasier characters.

9. Gertrude Moon

Played By Millicent Martin

Despite her mother Gertrude (Millicent Martin) consistently judging, reprimanding, and even scheming against her, Daphne remains fiercely loyal. While Daphne doesn't hesitate to express her discontent towards her mother, Gertrude always manages to manipulate her daughter. Although not a central character, Gertrude's interactions with Frasier, Daphne, and Martin highlight the diverse personalities in the series and have earned her the title of one of the most despised supporting characters on Frasier. Undeniably, Gertrude Moon exemplifies the show's talent for imbuing even minor characters with distinct and memorable traits.

8. Sherry Dempsey

Played By Marsha Mason

Sherry Dempsey (Marsha Mason) is the bartender at McGinty's, Martin Crane's favorite bar. Despite her loud and crass demeanor, it was precisely these characteristics that initially attracted Martin to her. Although Frasier and Niles were not particularly fond of their father's interest in Sherry, they made an effort to tolerate her for Martin's sake. Frasier even attempted, albeit unsuccessfully, to reconcile Martin and Sherry when she ended their relationship due to his desire to marry her. From her vibrant personality and character development to her impressive banjo skills, Sherry undoubtedly emerges as one of the most intriguing supporting characters on Frasier.

7. Kenny Daly

Played By Tom McGowan

Kenny Daly (Tom McGowan) joins the later seasons of Frasier as the station manager at KACL, the radio station where Frasier is employed. Kenny is characterized by his relaxed demeanor and frequently finds himself stuck in the middle of the peculiar dynamics at the radio station. Although Kenny is not on the same intellectual level as Frasier, their radio careers are closely intertwined, serving as catalysts for each other's personal development. When Kenny is reluctantly thrust into hosting Frasier's show, he rediscovers his passion for being a DJ, leading him to resign as KACL's station manager. Roz takes over his managerial position.

6. Julia Wilcox

Played By Felicity Huffman

Finance expert Julia Wilcox, portrayed by Felicity Huffman, joined Frasier as a guest star in its tenth season. However, she quickly became a recurring character. Julia took on the role of KACL's new financial reporter and even had her own segment in the last 15 minutes of Frasier's show. Despite a rocky start, Julia and Frasier developed a romantic relationship and even managed to impress Niles. Although Julia's time on the show was short-lived, she proved to be a captivating and formidable partner for Frasier. However, her gruff demeanor towards him and his family eventually led to their breakup.

5. Noel Shempsky

Played By Patrick Kerr

Noel (Patrick Kerr), despite being a minor character, stands out among a cast of eccentrics with his offbeat personality. This is why he remains a fan-favorite character in Frasier. Noel works as a technical assistant for KACL radio, but he is primarily known for his strong infatuation with Roz. However, what truly defines Noel is his passionate love for the iconic sci-fi series, Star Trek. He seizes every opportunity to flash the Vulcan greeting and showcase his ability to speak Klingon. While Noel might not uphold the best reputation for Trekkers, he is adored for giving Frasier and Niles a taste of their own geeky medicine.

4. Gil Chesterton

Played By Edward Hibbert

Elitist restaurant critic Gil Chesterton (Edward Hibbert) is one of the few supporting characters on Frasier who can truly get under Frasier and Roz's skin. With his masterful abilities to deliver cutting remarks and his pretentious and snarky personality, Gil knows how to make an impact. While some of the show's gay jokes involving Gil may not have aged well, he remains one of the most intriguing and well-rounded characters on Frasier. In addition to being an Army veteran, Gil has even boasted that his taste buds are insured. With a unique blend of hero and villain qualities, it's safe to say that Gil Chesterton is one of the most intelligent and dynamic characters the show has to offer.

3. Bob "Bulldog" Briscoe

Played By Dan Butler

Bulldog (Dan Butler), the entertaining host of KACL's Gonzo Sports Show, is widely acclaimed as one of Frasier's greatest supporting characters. Known for his rudeness, overconfidence, and crudeness, Bulldog is notorious for his womanizing behaviors and has even gained more popularity as a radio host compared to Frasier Crane. Despite his exaggerated macho image, Bulldog reveals a softer side when he develops romantic feelings for Roz, unfortunately, she does not reciprocate. As the complete opposite of Frasier, Bob "Bulldog" Briscoe brings a perfect balance of sophistication from Frasier's world along with a generous amount of unbridled enthusiasm and irreverent humor.

2. Lilith Sternin

Played By Bebe Neuwirth

Similar to Frasier, Lilith Sternin (played by Bebe Neuwirth) was initially introduced as a guest character on Cheers but later became one of Frasier's most beloved supporting characters. On the show Frasier, Lilith occasionally appeared alongside her and Frasier's son Frederick, whom she had custody of following their divorce. Lilith's knack for outsmarting and striking fear into the main cast, particularly her ex-husband, solidified her reputation as a memorable antagonist during the '80s and '90s. From the moment she reentered Frasier's life by cleverly connecting to a call on his show, to her incisive and acerbic observations about his personal and professional life, Lilith, a no-nonsense psychiatrist, effortlessly relies on her dry wit.

1. Bebe Glazer

Played By Harriet Sansom Harris

Frasier's agent Bebe (Harriet Sansom Harris) is widely regarded as the standout supporting character on the show. Known for her irresistible charm and cunning nature, Bebe's ruthless negotiation tactics and sharp wit add a captivating edge to each of her appearances. Bebe's amorality and expert manipulation of situations provide a stark contrast to Frasier's ethical values, resulting in a perfect dynamic. With Harriet Sansom Harris's exceptional comedic timing and flawless execution, Bebe transcends her supporting role, leaving a lasting impression and embodying the intriguingly darker side of Frasier.

Editor's P/S

As a huge fan of the iconic sitcom "Frasier," I cannot express enough how much the supporting characters contributed to the show's overall success. Each one brought a unique personality and dynamic to the main cast, making the world of Frasier feel rich and relatable.

Eddie, the scene-stealing Jack Russell Terrier, holds a special place in my heart. His deadpan expressions and hilarious antics added a touch of levity and charm to even the most mundane episodes. Despite his lack of dialogue, Eddie's presence was pivotal in showcasing the loving bond between Martin and his furry companion. The fact that Moose, the talented dog who played Eddie, had a strained relationship with the other cast members only added to the humor, as it translated into Eddie's on-screen conflicts with the characters.