How ‘Frasier’ Revival Must Contend With Missing Two Big Characters

The character of Frasier Crane has persisted for over 20 years across multiple television programs. This fall, he’s back in the spotlight in a fresh Frasier revival but two big characters will be ostensibly absent opposite series lead Kelsey Grammer.

The two key players bring very different things to the table of equal importance. They are Martin Crane and his dog Eddie. What might their absence mean for the show? How should they be addressed? Do they have to be addressed at all?

A familiar face will be missing some iconic ‘Frasier’ characters

Grammer is reprising his role as the sarcastic psychiatrist. However, John Mahoney, who played his TV father, passed away in 2018. The character’s dog, meanwhile, would be expected to have passed away by the time the revival kicks off 30 years after the original finale.

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In the original, Frasier often jeered at Martin’s affections for Eddie and for how highly he regarded the canine companion. It was one of many ways the father-son duo butted head.

That also makes it a promising springboard for Frasier’s growth in the revival while also allowing both characters and actors an important place in the spotlight.

How the past can clearly shape the future of the ‘Frasier’ revival

Grammer is on the record saying the Frasier revival will honor the late John Mahoney and acknowledge the emotional depths to Frasier’s character and personal journey.

“He’s going back to Boston because his son lives there,” shared Grammer. “There’s a nod to certainly my father in the show, John Mahoney, there. You’ll see things about John all through the show. I think people will be very happy to see that he’s honored in the way he is in the show.”

Frasier is, of course, a sitcom but it knew when to consider the emotional weight behind some of its content. At its heart, it is about one thing, says Grammer. It’s “all about love. It’s all about looking for love, becoming a good father… because… Frasier has always been looking to become a full man.” So, at least one character will be treated with dignity and deliberation in the Frasier reboot. It would not be a stretch to think others will receive a similarly thoughtful treatment. Screen Rant suggested Frasier might get a dog of his own in the revival, as a mirror to his own father, an acknowledgment of Martin and Eddie, and a way for Frasier to explore that which he dismissed in the past.

How would you like to see these characters handled in the upcoming Frasier revival?