You won’t get more episodes of “Frasier” on Paramount+.
The streaming network canceled the show, leaving producers to scramble for another outlet. While those talks take place (if they do), check out the rebooted season on DVD.
You’ll see it holds up, thanks to Kelsey Grammer’s cool approach to the leading character. It also works because producers have surrounded him with some very good supporting actors.
Two recall the glory days of the original series. Jack Cutmore-Scott (as son Freddy) and Anders Keith (as nephew David) are just the irritants Grammer’s Frasier needs.
Jack Cutmore-Scott, left, plays Kelsey Grammer's son, Freddy, on "Frasier."
Returning to Boston, the psychologist/talk show host wants to rekindle a relationship with his son, but Freddy isn’t all that eager. He’s a firefighter living with a friend who has a child. Frasier’s nephew, David, is more in keeping with brother Niles; several Harvard colleagues run the gamut.
While Grammer slips into the role like it's an expensive pair of loafers, he’s surrounded by a closet full of sneakers. They’ll need some breaking in.
The series’ producers are mindful of the show’s heritage and, for good measure, don’t forget to offer a callback to “Cheers.” There’s potential here.
Frasier’s Boston home doesn’t appear tainted by other relatives (remember dad’s duct-taped chair?), it is in line with his esthetic. When others come to taste the good life, they’re not as deferential. The new take is good – even though it’s never quite clear why starting over is in his wheelhouse.
Peri Gilpin returned as Roz Doyle in the 10th episode of the rebooted "Frasier" with Kelsey Grammer. She'll continue to appear in the second season.
Frasier gets a regular watering hole, too, but it’s not “Cheers.” Instead, the place is a little more working class and lets Freddy rule like Norm did.
In the second season of the series, producers made sure to bring back O.G. “Frasier” stars. Peri Gilpin appears more regularly; Harriet Sansom Harris, Dan Butler and Edward Hibbert sign the guest book.
A third season could be a great blend of old and new worlds. We started to get a taste of that brew, but Paramount+ put the pot on hold. Now, it’s just a matter of seeing if Grammer has another way to bring his Emmy-winning character back.
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