The Glaring Problem With Frasier Cast The Revival Needs to Fix ASAP
During its original airing, Frasier was recognized as one of the most popular and critically acclaimed comedy sequel series to have ever been made.
The follow-up from its predecessor Cheers, the show was a big hit from the start and kept high viewing numbers throughout the entirety of its 11-season run. Therefore news of its revival was met positively by fans, when it was announced in February 2021 that they would be producing a new season of the much-loved sitcom. However, fans have also confessed to feeling 'anxiously' concerning the revival's release. Admitting they have very high expectations for the show they hold in such regard.
It has therefore come as a shock to the dedicated fans of the series to learn of Kelsey Grammer's latest reveal about the new episodes. Many popular characters from the original show will not be appearing as main cast characters in this new series. Fan favorites including Niles Crane (David Hyde Pierce), Daphne Moon (Jane Leeves), and Roz Doyle (Peri Gilpin) are expected to be treated as guest stars, only making occasional cameo appearances but will not become series regulars on the show. This reveal has also led to the belief that Dr. Frasier Crane himself, will no longer be based in Seattle. With the series taking on an entirely new location.
This could be a significant setback for the series, which may suffer if its new writers and producers tamper too much with the show's successful format. Even if done well, fans will be sure to miss some of the elements of the series which made it great. Several Reddit threads have fans calling for the appearances of their favorite characters. Giving suggestions on what they are hoping to see in the upcoming season. This latest update seems to remove the likelihood of delivering a revival that will meet any of these expectations.
Of course, Frasier has a history of shaking up its format to make something different but equally successful. When the concept of the spin-off was first developed, producers wanted to make a show separate from its predecessor Cheers. Therefore, they wrote the show to include an entirely new cast and setting to keep it from being compared with its forerunner as much as possible. Frasier of course became a hit and was praised for its originality and distinctive identity from Cheers. The revival's new turn of cast and setting may have a similar effect on the show now. Giving the series a new lease of life, instead of attempting, and possibly failing, to resurrect the old.
Whatever the new format will be for the series, it cannot ignore the demands laid upon it by fans. A show's revival can most certainly tank if it does not meet the expectations of its audience (take a look at Fuller House). But can a revival show like Frasier really live up to the anticipation? Could it be already doomed to ruin the Frasier legacy?
Frasier: The Revival release date is yet to be announced; the series will be available exclusively on Paramount+.