Frasier Season 2 Dropped Some Big Reveals For The Character’s Seattle Return, But There’s One Thing I’m Especially Thankful For From The Latest Episode

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As a die-hard Frasier fan who’s been tuning into this timeless series since its very first episode, I can’t help but feel a mix of nostalgia and excitement after watching “Thank You, Dr. Crane.” The return to Seattle was more than just a trip down memory lane; it was a heartfelt farewell to a chapter that has been woven into the fabric of my television-watching life for over two decades.

Warning: SPOILERS for the Frasier episode “Thank You, Dr. Crane” are ahead!

In 2004, the initial run of Frasier ended after 11 seasons with Kelsey Grammer’s character departing Seattle and relocating to Chicago. But when the revival of Frasier debuted last year for Paramount+ subscribers, instead of joining Dr. Frasier Crane in Chicago or returning to Seattle, his character opted to return to Boston – his familiar territory from the old Cheers.

In the upcoming “Frasier” episode slated for 2024, titled “Thank You, Dr. Crane,” Frasier revisits Seattle and catches up with old friends like Bob Briscoe (Bulldog) and Gil Chesterton. This installment contained several surprises, but what I’m most grateful for is the way it advanced the storyline of Roz Doyle, played by Peri Gilpin, who has been appearing more frequently this season.

The Big Reveals Shared During Frasier’s Return To Seattle

Frasier Crane journeyed to Seattle alongside his son Freddy, aiming to assist Roz with a quiz segment for KACL radio and revive his live counseling program on calls. The episode’s humor often stemmed from Frasier encountering one of his previous callers, Lou, who took up magic after Frasier encouraged him to do so 20 years ago. However, this single suggestion had a detrimental impact on Lou’s life. As it turns out, not only does he lack the knack for magic, but his wife abandoned him, and his new landlord, also Lou’s tormentor, frequently mistreats him. Through this narrative, we see how Frasier’s advice inadvertently led to Lou’s downfall.

KACL Has Seen Better Days

Back when “Frasier” was first on TV, the internet wasn’t what it is today and KACL was one of the most popular radio stations in Seattle. But now, with the rise of digital content like podcasts, radio has really struggled. KACL, unfortunately, isn’t doing as well as it used to. Bulldog and Gil are still holding down their sports and restaurant review shows, but the station is facing financial difficulties that limit what they can do. For instance, they can’t afford certain music rights or even a second “Welcome Home” banner like the one from Frasier’s show. The building itself seems neglected too – there’s an animal nest under the table where Frasier used to host “The Dr. Frasier Crane Show.

Bulldog Is Gay

In their days at KACL, Bulldog was a boorish, macho character, and that hasn’t altered over the past two decades. Instead of continuing to be a ladies’ man, it’s been revealed that Bulldog is gay, which mirrors actor Dan Butler’s real-life sexuality. This unexpected change was a funny twist, as Gil Chesterton, who was often speculated to be homosexual in the original series, ended up coming out of the closet instead.

Niles And Daphne Now Live In Sedona

In my excitement as a fan, let me share an interesting twist in the revival of “Frasier.” It appears David Hyde Pierce won’t be reprising his role as Niles Crane on Paramount+’s version, and the creators have provided a compelling explanation for why Frasier and Freddy didn’t visit Niles and Daphne in “Thank You, Dr. Crane.” It turns out that they no longer reside in Seattle! Prior to their journey, Freddy had informed Eve that his aunt and uncle have moved to Sedona, Arizona, where Niles manages his own vineyard now.

Café Nervosa Has A New Look

Café Nervosa became a significant location in the original “Frasier” series, appearing alongside Frasier Crane’s apartment and the KACL recording room. The positive aspect is that the coffee shop continues to operate and appears to be prospering. However, there’s some unfavorable news for Frasier – Café Nervosa now has a distinctly new atmosphere, with two couches added and the establishment catering more towards cyclists and athletes.

McGinty’s Is Now A Gay Bar

Martin Crane, in his later years, frequently chose to unwind with drinks among friends at McGinty’s. Back then, it was one of the more traditionally masculine bars around. However, when Frasier and Niles dropped by to reminisce about John Mahoney’s character, they discovered that the bar had transformed into a gay establishment – something Bulldog had informed them about. Despite this change, Martin remains fondly remembered at McGinty’s, as there’s still a picture of him on display.

I’m Thankful That Roz Is Moving On From KACL

As a devoted fan of Frasier for years, I was thrilled to see Frasier Crane return to Seattle in this episode. Yet, it’s also satisfying that “Thank You, Dr. Crane” seemed to mark a definitive end to this phase of the character’s storyline. Previously, Peri Gilpin has portrayed Roz in several episodes of the current Frasier reboot. She’s been frequently traveling to Boston to visit her daughter Alice (Greer, Kelsey Grammer’s real-life daughter, who attends the Rhode Island School of Design). When not visiting, she’s remained busy at KACL, a position she secured in the final season of the original Frasier series.

Following the decline of KACL and hearing about Lou’s unsuccessful magician career, Frasier persuaded Roz that it was past due for her to leave the radio station. Although she had many enjoyable years there, at least a third of which were shared with Frasier, it was just as he moved back to Boston to begin a fresh chapter in his life, it was now time for her to do the same. With Alice attending RISD, Frasier recommended that Roz could discover something more fulfilling on the East Coast.

From this point forward, we can anticipate Roz making more regular appearances on the show Frasier, though it’s uncertain if the series will continue for a third season at present. Since Roz is moving away from Seattle and Niles and Daphne no longer reside there, Frasier seems unlikely to revisit the city again (Wendie Malick has stated she won’t reprise her role as Ronee Lawrence). It was enjoyable exploring that setting with him and his cast for over a decade, but now he’s settled in Boston, which is advantageous since one of his closest friends will be living nearby.

Only two more episodes remain in Season 2 of Frasier. Until they air, here’s a suggestion: Tune into other excellent shows available on Paramount+ to pass the time. Will there be a Season 3? We’ll have to wait and see!

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2024-11-01 02:07