This Is Frasier Season 2's Easiest Way To Bring Niles Back & I'm Begging Grammer & Pierce To Make It Happen (2024)

Frasier season 2 has the easiest way to bring back Niles Crane, and I'm begging both Kelsey Grammer and David Hyde Pierce to make it happen. Leading up to the return of the Paramount+ revival, I find myself rewatching the original Frasier series. Not that I need any reason to revisit the show, since it's a favorite, but for some reason, it feels more timely to check it out again. While it's always enjoyable, it's also a stark reminder of Niles' absence in the new Frasier, considering how prominent he was in almost every episode of the Seattle project.

Admittedly, I was equal parts anxious and excited when the news about the revival broke out. The original Frasier had a legacy to protect, and the success rate of revivals, despite the sheer number of them in recent years, is pretty low. I was afraid that this new iteration would taint what its parent series accomplished. While the Frasier revival still has work to do to be at the same storytelling level as its predecessor, there was a clear potential for it. However, continuing the Paramount+ comedy only makes Niles' absence more painfully obvious.

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Niles' Frasier Revival Absence Explained

Pierce's Niles Is Missed In The Frasier Revival

This Is Frasier Season 2's Easiest Way To Bring Niles Back & I'm Begging Grammer & Pierce To Make It Happen (2)

I am well aware of why Frasier's scene-stealing brother isn't in the revival. Through the years, I've covered the majority of updates about the matter — from Grammer's earliest comments about getting the project off the ground to Pierce's responses when asked about why he isn't in the fresh endeavor. As much as I would love for Niles to dust the chairs at Mahoney's and mock Frasier's horrible new aesthetic, ultimately, I understand why the actor refuses to return. For those who need a refresher, however, there are a few layers to Pierce's decision.

While I understand these explanations, I believe that at his core, the real reason for Pierce's refusal to appear in the Frasier revival is because of his belief that the show itself isn't needed.

The actor maintains that he doesn't want to simply repeat the performance in the Seattle series by playing Niles again — no matter how great it was. This ties in with his thirst to continue exploring other ventures, which he did on the heels of the original Frasier wrapping up in 1994. Committing to a 10-episode season of the revival will hinder that. While I understand these explanations, I believe that at his core, the real reason for Pierce's refusal to appear in the Frasier revival is because of his belief that the show itself isn't needed.

In 2017, Pierce maintained that Frasier was a product of its time, Because of this, he believes that it shouldn't be revived. At that time, the actor sounded confident that the rest of those involved in the original project shared the same sentiment. What he didn't know was that Grammer would be motivated to bring the Cranes back the next year after seeing Roseanne's return on ABC.

Pierce's Niles Should Be Frasier's Surprise Caller In Frasier Season 2's Seattle Episode

The Crane Brothers' Mental Health Talk On The Air Will Thrill Seattle

Just because I understand his reason for not wanting to be in the Frasier revival doesn't mean I am letting go of my dream of seeing Niles again. This is why I was thrilled when the actor seemingly slightly changed his mind about partaking in the Paramount+ project. In a 2024 interview, Pierce revealed he's open to appearing in the new Frasier but under one condition — that his role only be limited. Ideally, I would want Niles to be a consistent presence in Frasier's life, but it's so much better than his past stance on the matter. Because of that, I also figured out the best and easiest way for him to return in Frasier season 2.

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I Know Why Frasier Returns To Seattle In Season 2 (It's Another Tragedy After Martin's Death)

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As previously confirmed, Frasier season 2 will see Grammer's titular character come back home to Seattle for a KACL reunion. It's still unclear what prompts this get-together that will see the return of Dan Butler's Bob "Bulldog" Briscoe and Edward Hibbert's Gil Chesterton, as well as, Harriet Sansom Harris' eccentric agent Bebe Glazer. Peri Gilpin's Roz Doyle will also be part of the outing. The installment will see Frasier revive his iconic radio series, "The Dr. Frasier Crane Show," and Pierce's Niles will be the perfect special caller for it.

The Crane brothers can somehow create that on-air call in Frasier season 2, perhaps while discussing their grief over losing their father.

Niles was once a co-host of his brother's Seattle series; at one point, he even filled in for Frasier who was sick at that time. That said, the younger Crane brother never called in. This would be the perfect time to do that. I have a special affinity for the Frasier pilot, which featured Martin calling in to awkwardly make up with Frasier after a horrible fight. It was sweet, touching, and also funny. The Crane brothers can somehow create that on-air call in Frasier season 2, perhaps while discussing their grief over losing their father.

Why Being A Caller Is The Easiest Way For The Frasier Revival To Address Niles' Absence

Niles Calling In Doesn't Require Pierce To Show Up

This Is Frasier Season 2's Easiest Way To Bring Niles Back & I'm Begging Grammer & Pierce To Make It Happen (5)

Having Niles call in for a brief but meaningful conversation with Frasier on the air can be one of the most poignant moments of the Paramount+ endeavor thus far. Beyond that, however, it's also the easiest way to bring back Pierce. While the actor says that he is willing to make a one-off appearance, having him record a few lines for the Frasier revival season 2 is a much easier way to incorporate the character into its story. The low-effort cameo will resolve the plaguing issue of why the brothers barely spend time together when they should be keener on that after Martin's death.

The other thing I love about this option is how it still allows the new Frasier to stage a proper return for Niles in potential future seasons. At this point, bringing Pierce back must not be combined with an episode already filled with guest stars. Knowing how big of a deal the Cranes' reunion will be, Paramount+ needs to make the most out of the time they will hopefully have with Niles.

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Will David Hyde Pierce Ever Physically Appear In The New Frasier

Pierce Is Open, But It Needs To Wait Until The Potential Frasier Season 3

Currently, I don't think there's a chance of Pierce physically appearing as Niles in Frasier season 2. The whole season is already packed with guest stars, so much so that I'm already worried that Nicholas Lyndhurst's Alan will be sidelined after a brilliant first year. Given this, the only chance for Pierce to properly reprise the role is if Paramount+ renews the Frasier revival for a third season. Unfortunately, there is no way of knowing whether that's in the cards for the streamer as early as now. Assuming that happens, hopefully, the next year also brings back some Cheers characters.

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    Frasier (2023)

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    Follow Frasier Crane in the next chapter of his life as he returns to Boston, Mass., with new challenges to face, new relationships to forge and an old dream or two to finally fulfill.

  • This Is Frasier Season 2's Easiest Way To Bring Niles Back & I'm Begging Grammer & Pierce To Make It Happen (8)
    Frasier

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    Fraiser is a comedy-drama sitcom that stars Kelsey Grammer as a psychiatrist who takes up the role of a radio show host in Seattle after his life in Boston is upheaved. A spin-off of the series Cheers, Fraiser follows the titular character adjusting to the single life while caring for his father (a retired police officer,) his brother, and other eccentric co-workers.

This Is Frasier Season 2's Easiest Way To Bring Niles Back & I'm Begging Grammer & Pierce To Make It Happen (2024)

FAQs

Why won't David Hyde Pierce return to Frasier? ›

In a new interview with the L.A. Times, Pierce said that he was simply too busy with other projects to be part of the new incarnation of Frasier. "I never really wanted to go back," the actor said. "It's not like I said, 'Oh, I don't ever want to do that again." I loved every moment.

Will Niles be in Frasier season 2? ›

Summary. Frasier reboot season 2 will bring the character back to Seattle, reuniting with KACL co-workers in a nostalgia-filled episode. Niles' absence in the revival affects storytelling, and it may be better that a falling out between him and Frasier happens as an explanation for his non-appearance.

What were the last words from Frasier? ›

Goodnight, Seattle: Part 2
  • Frasier: "It may be that the gulfs will wash us down, It may be we shall touch the Happy Isles, and though We are not now that strength which in old days Moved earth and heaven, that which we are, we are."
  • [dissolve to Frasier's final broadcast]

What is considered the best episode of Frasier? ›

With plenty of humor, heartrending moments, and classic farce, the best episodes of Frasier still hold up.
  1. 1 The Ski Lodge (Season 5, Episode 14)
  2. 2 Goodnight, Seattle (season 11 episodes 23+24) ...
  3. 3 Something Borrowed, Someone Blue (Part 1+2) (season 7, episode 23-24) ...
  4. 4 The Guilt Trippers (Season 9, Episode 23) ...
Jan 13, 2024

Why was Niles killed off on Frasier? ›

As for why Niles isn't in the Frasier reboot, it stemmed from David not wanting to return to the role after almost two decades after the final episode. Kelsey confirmed this to People in November 2022, stating how David's choice to not come back actually opened up for new storylines to emerge.

Who turned down the role of Frasier? ›

While Frasier is Grammer's signature role, the part was initially intended for someone other than him. The character was actually created with another actor in mind. Grammer was only afforded the chance to audition for the role because John Lithgow turned down the part.

Is Frasier coming back in 2024? ›

It is a revival of and a sequel to the 1993–2004 sitcom Frasier featuring the character Frasier Crane, played by Kelsey Grammer. On February 22, 2024, the series was renewed for a second season, and on May 9, 2024, they began production. The second season is scheduled to be released on September 19, 2024.

Does Roz appear in Frasier Reboot? ›

The actor is back in a recurring guest star role after making an appearance in the Season One finale of the "Frasier" reboot on Paramount+. After making an appearance in the Season One finale of the "Frasier" reboot, Roz Doyle has decided to stay.

Will the Frasier reboot get a season 2? ›

In February, fans of the Frasier reboot got the news they've been waiting to hear: The series will return to Paramount+ for Season 2. Production officially began in May for Season 2 of he reboot that just picked up three Emmy nominations for its pilot season. And now we know the premiere date: Sept. 19.

What happens to Roz at the end of Frasier? ›

In the show's final episode, Roz becomes station manager of KACL after the previous manager, Kenny Daly, decides to become a DJ again. Gilpin reprised her role in the 2023 revival of Frasier. It is implied that she still lives in Seattle, but remained close to the Cranes, including Frasier in Chicago.

What was the twist at the end of Frasier? ›

Frasier's final broadcast radio episode concludes with him reading Alfred Lord Tennyson's poem “Ulysses” on air. Frasier later boards a plane presumably for San Francisco, but the final twist is that he's actually moving to Chicago to find Charlotte and take a chance on their love.

Who does Frasier marry in the end? ›

Dr. Frasier Winslow Crane (born c.

Intended to appear for only a few episodes, Grammer's performance in the role was praised by producers, prompting them to expand his role and increase his prominence. Later in Cheers, Frasier marries Lilith Sternin (Bebe Neuwirth) and has a son, Frederick.

What is the least favorite Frasier episode? ›

According to the 382 votes cast on IMDb, "Mother Load Part 2" is the official worst episode of Frasier.

Who got the most fan mail on Frasier? ›

Also received the most fan mail.

Does Frasier ever sleep with Roz? ›

Roz and Frasier do eventually sleep together in season 9, episode 23: "The Guilt Trippers" Roz also is lusted after by co-worker Noel Shempsky, although the feeling is not reciprocated. Early in the series, Roz and Frasier have a rather strained relationship.

Why was Lilith not in Frasier? ›

So even though it is revealed that Lilith has also relocated to Boston, it turns out she's been keeping her distance—and for good reason, because their reunion soon turns into a "who knows our son better" competition, with Lilith bragging about being closer to Freddy and triggering Frasier's own guilt at not being ...

Why did Jane Leeves leave Frasier in season 8? ›

By the start of the eighth season, Leeves was pregnant, and the writers incorporated her pregnancy into shows as weight gain due to her character's stress from her relationship with Niles (portrayed by David Hyde Pierce).

Why did Daphne not return to Frasier? ›

Frasier is a spinoff of Cheers, and the writers were under tremendous pressure to create a worthy successor to the Boston-set sitcom. Grammer, who reprises his role as Dr. Frasier Crane, feared Daphne would hurt the show.

Will Peri Gilpin return to Frasier reboot? ›

Peri Gilpin and Kelsey Grammer in 'Frasier'. Peri Gilpin, a.k.a. Frasier's lovably acerbic producer Roz Doyle, will appear as a "recurring guest star" in season 2, after reprising her role in the season 1 finale. "I just loved getting to do it," Gilpin told Entertainment Weekly of her 2023 appearance.

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