Movies - TV
Why John Lithgow Flat-Out Refused To Play Frasier In Cheers
By JEREMY SMITH
In the third season of the hit series “Cheers,” viewers eagerly anticipated the aftermath of Sam Malone (Ted Danson) and Diane Chambers' (Shelley Long) devastating breakup.
As Sam reverted to his previous self-destructive habits, Diane sought help for him, believing that psychiatrist Frasier Crane could offer the needed help to get him back on track.
Producers initially offered John Lithgow the role of Frasier, a sophisticated character. However, at 6'4", Lithgow's height presented issues, especially next to the 6'2" Danson.
Despite being in demand as a character actor, Lithgow turned it down, stating, “I just said, ‘No.’ [...] It was like swatting away a fly […] I just wasn't going to do a series.”
Lithgow's decision turned out to be fortunate, leading to a phenomenal 1984 with notable performances in various films. Subsequently, he shifted his focus to stage acting.
He later embraced sitcoms and ultimately starred in “3rd Rock from the Sun.” Lithgow's decision not to commit to a series enabled him to pursue diverse and acclaimed projects.