Kelsey Grammer Reflects on ‘Cheers’ Dispute with Ted Danson: ‘I Was Drinking a Lot’
More than 30 years after the last episode of “Cheers” aired, two of its lead actors are finally reconciling.
Kelsey Grammer, known for his role as Frasier Crane on the show and its spin-off “Frasier,” discussed his past conflict with co-star Ted Danson in an interview with the New York Post, released on Friday, stating that their disagreement “wasn’t as big as it seemed.”
“There wasn’t really a fight. It was during a challenging time in my life when I was dealing with a lot of self-doubt and negative feelings,” he shared. “I was drinking heavily. Ted had mentioned to me, ‘I’m a bit upset that you sometimes don’t show up prepared.’ I acknowledged that, and that was pretty much it.”
Grammer added, “Perhaps for Ted, he felt he needed to distance himself from what could have been a stronger friendship. I can’t be sure, but I appreciated his feedback. We moved past it.”
These comments came after a recent guest appearance on the podcast “Where Everybody Knows Your Name,” co-hosted by Danson and fellow “Cheers” alum Woody Harrelson, where Grammer revealed their feud.
Danson expressed regret, saying, “I missed the last 30 years with Kelsey Grammer, and I feel responsible for that.”
“I apologize to both of us for not reaching out sooner,” Danson continued, reflecting on their tense interaction and his decision to stay disengaged from their conflict over the years.
Grammer accepted Danson’s apology and shared a fond recollection in return. “There was something wonderful you told me that I’ve always kept in mind,” he said. “When I turned 40, you said, ‘Now that you’re 40, it means you’re finally worth having a conversation with.'”
“I’ve always cherished that remark,” he continued, “and I often repeat it. My affection for you has been as natural as the sunrise.”
During the podcast, Grammer also admitted that his time on “Cheers” involved “self-medicating” with drugs and alcohol as a way to handle the struggles he faced.
“Cheers” was a springboard for both actors, who, now in their late 60s and 70s, have had successful careers. Danson recently starred in the Netflix series “Man on the Inside,” a cozy mystery twist on the traditional detective genre, while Grammer has revived “Frasier” in a new reboot available on Paramount +.
If you or someone you know may need assistance with alcohol issues, please call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) or visit https://findtreatment.gov.
