Episode Details

On this episode of pplpod, we are listening to the blues a-callin' as we head to Seattle to break down one of the most acclaimed American sitcoms in television history: Frasier. Join us as we explore how Dr. Frasier Crane (played by Kelsey Grammer) successfully transitioned from the bar in Cheers to his own radio show at KACL on NBC, creating a spinoff that won a record-breaking 37 Primetime Emmy Awards.

We dive deep into the show's production history, including the fascinating story of how David Hyde Pierce was cast as Niles Crane based solely on his resemblance to Grammer, and how the creators originally wanted a setting far removed from Boston to avoid Cheers comparisons. We also discuss the incredible ensemble cast, including John Mahoney as the grounded Martin Crane, Jane Leeves as the psychic physical therapist Daphne Moon, and Peri Gilpin as the sharp-witted producer Roz Doyle.

Tune in for behind-the-scenes trivia on:

• The "eclectic" design of Frasier’s apartment and its iconic Space Needle view.

• The famous celebrity voice cameos that served as on-air callers, from Helen Mirren to Ben Stiller.

• The origin of the jazzy theme song, "Tossed Salads and Scrambled Eggs".

• The 2023 revival series on Paramount+.

Whether you are a fan of high-brow humor, sibling rivalry, or just Eddie the dog, this deep dive into the 90s TV classic covers everything you need to know about the Crane family.