2. Frasier Crane - Cheers (TV, 1984-93)/ Frasier (TV, 1993-2004)
CBSWhen I reviewed
Patrick Stewart's filmography last month, I said that it was far too difficult to pick any one episode from his run on Star Trek: The Next Generation, and that throughout the series' run he had consistently been the strongest aspect of the show. It's much the same story with Grammer's work as Frasier Crane, a character he played for 20 years and which still defines his career in the eyes of many people. Something about his neurotic, sarcastic radio psychiatrist captured the imagination of the American public, resulting in dozens of awards and a show which is still one of the most successful spin-offs ever. For the uninitiated, pyschiatrist Frasier Crane started out as a recurring character in Cheers, the popular American sitcom set in the eponymous bar in Boston. Making his debut in season three, he was positioned as a love interest for Diane (Shelley Long), bringing him into competition with bartender Sam Malone (Ted Danson). After being jilted at the altar by Diane, Crane becomes a regular at Cheers before relocating to Seattle. Here, in Frasier, Crane is living with his father and his brother Niles (David Hyde Pierce), and hosting his own radio show. The show finally ended in 2004 with the two-part special 'Goodnight Seattle'. It's very easy to say that one can't imagine anyone else playing Frasier Crane after all these years, but the fact is much of the character's appeal lies in Grammer's performance. It was his great chemistry with Danson which caused the part to be extended beyond a few episodes, and his excellent comic timing which led to some of the funniest moments in 1990s sitcoms. But on top of the buffoonish elements, Grammer imbues a great sense of intelligence, culture and respect into the part, giving us a protagonist who is pompous but appealing - a rare trick to pull off.