"Cheers" is a classic American sitcom that aired from 1982 to 1993, set in the eponymous bar in Boston, where a colorful group of locals meet to drink, relax, and socialize. The show's main theme is the camaraderie and hilarious interactions among the bar's regular patrons, including the bar's staff.
Why should you watch "Cheers?" The show is a timeless piece of television history, known for its witty dialogue, memorable characters, and heartwarming stories. It's a show that truly encapsulates the spirit of a close-knit community, making viewers feel like they're part of the Cheers family.
Moreover, "Cheers" served as a launchpad for many young actors who later achieved fame. The series is renowned for its impressive roster of guest stars, many of whom went on to have successful careers in Hollywood. Here are a few actors who guest-starred on "Cheers" and left a lasting impression.
Before she became a household name, Emma Thompson guest-starred in a season 10 episode of "Cheers" as Nanny Gee, a children's entertainer. Thompson's character was revealed to be Frasier's first wife, adding a layer of complexity to the show's intricate character relationships. Thompson's performance was a delightful surprise for viewers and showcased her comedic talent early in her career. Thompson's character, Nanette Guzman, was a part of Frasier's past when they were both hippies, writing music and poetry together. Her appearance on the show brought a touch of nostalgia and a glimpse into Frasier's past life, making her character memorable.
The beloved "Jeopardy!" host made a memorable appearance on "Cheers" when Cliff, the bar's trivia aficionado, gets a chance to show off his knowledge on the game show. Trebek's cameo added a touch of reality to the sitcom, blurring the lines between the show and the real world. Despite losing all his winnings on the Final Jeopardy question, Cliff's interaction with Trebek was a highlight of the episode, showcasing the show's ability to blend reality and fiction seamlessly.
Known for her roles in "Desperate Housewives" and "Melrose Place," Marcia Cross made an appearance in "Cheers" as Rebecca's sister. Her character added depth to Rebecca's backstory and allowed for some interesting character dynamics. Cross's character, Susan, was revealed to have a history of stealing Rebecca's boyfriends, adding a layer of tension and drama to her appearance on the show.
The king of late-night television graced "Cheers" with his presence when Cliff and his mother attended a taping of "The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson." Carson's cameo was a testament to the cultural significance of "Cheers" during its run. His appearance on the show not only highlighted the show's popularity but also its ability to attract big-name stars, further cementing its place in television history.
Before she was known for her role in "The King of Queens," Leah Remini guest-starred in "Cheers" as one of Carla's many children. Her character added to the chaotic charm of Carla's large family. Remini's role, although small, added a touch of realism to the show, showcasing the complexities and challenges of managing a large family.
Then-Massachusetts Senator John Kerry made a cameo in "Cheers," adding a touch of political humor to the show. His appearance was a nod to the show's Boston setting and its connection to local culture and events. Kerry's cameo was a testament to the show's cultural relevance and its ability to incorporate real-world figures and events into its storyline.
Before she took command of the starship Voyager in "Star Trek: Voyager," Kate Mulgrew played a local politician who dated Sam in the season four finale of "Cheers." Her character brought a touch of drama and intrigue to the show. Mulgrew's character, Janet Eldridge, almost got engaged to Sam, but she realized that Sam still had feelings for Diane, leading to a dramatic end to their relationship.
Talk show legend Dick Cavett made an appearance in "Cheers," bringing his real-world fame to the fictional world of the show. His character's interactions with the regulars added a new dynamic to the series. Cavett's cameo was a testament to the show's ability to blend the real and fictional worlds, adding a layer of authenticity to the series.
The British comedic icon guest-starred in "Cheers" as a fellow psychiatrist and friend to Frasier. Cleese's character brought a unique sense of humor to the show, blending his British wit with the show's American sensibilities. Cleese's character also served as a marriage counselor for Sam and Diane, providing a comedic yet insightful perspective on their tumultuous relationship.
The legendary Red Sox player made a cameo in "Cheers," much to the delight of the Boston-based characters. His appearance was a nod to the city's love for its sports teams and added a touch of local flavor to the show. Boggs' cameo was a testament to the show's connection to Boston and its culture, further grounding the series in its setting.
Before he became a regular as Norm Peterson, George Wendt made a guest appearance in the pilot episode of "Cheers." His character was so well-received that he was made a series regular. Wendt's initial appearance set the tone for his character, Norm, who would become a beloved fixture of the series.
Known for her role as Roz Doyle on "Frasier," Peri Gilpin made a guest appearance on "Cheers" as Holly Matheson, a reporter who interviews Woody. Gilpin's character added a touch of realism to the show, showcasing the media's interest in the bar and its patrons.
The famous singer and actor made a guest appearance in "Cheers" as Woody's cousin Russell. His character brought a touch of Southern charm to the Boston bar. With his Southern accent and charm, Connick Jr.'s character added a new dynamic to the series, showcasing the diversity of the characters that frequented the bar.
Before he became famous as Kramer on "Seinfeld," Michael Richards made a guest appearance on "Cheers" as Eddie Gordon, a character who tries to steal Sam's job. Richards' character added a touch of drama and tension to the show, showcasing Sam's challenges in managing the bar.
Dan Hedaya played Nick Tortelli, Carla's ex-husband. His character was a constant thorn in Carla's side and brought a lot of humor to the show. Hedaya's character, with his brash personality and constant attempts to win Carla back, was a source of many comedic moments in the series.
Jean Kasem played Loretta Tortelli, Nick's ditzy blonde wife. Her character was a perfect foil to Carla and added a lot of comedic moments to the show. With her naive and ditzy personality, Kasem's character provided a stark contrast to Carla's tough and no-nonsense character, adding to the show's humor.
Jay Thomas played Eddie Lebec, a hockey player who marries Carla. His character was a fan favorite, and his relationship with Carla was one of the highlights of the show. With his athletic prowess and charming personality, Thomas' character was a beloved addition to the series.
Before she became famous as Phoebe on "Friends," Lisa Kudrow made a guest appearance on "Cheers" as Emily, a woman who goes on a date with Frasier. Kudrow's character added a touch of romance and drama to the show, showcasing Frasier's attempts at dating post-Diane.
Fred Dryer played sportscaster Dave Richards, a friend of Sam's. His character added a touch of realism to the show, and his interactions with Sam were always entertaining. Dryer's character, with his professional insight into the world of sports, added a unique perspective to the series.
Bebe Neuwirth: Bebe Neuwirth played Lilith Sternin, Frasier's wife. Her character was a perfect counterpoint to Frasier's, and their relationship was one of the most interesting aspects of the show. Neuwirth's character, with her cold and analytical personality, provided a stark contrast to Frasier's more emotional character, adding depth and complexity to their relationship.
Best known for his role as Doc Brown in the "Back to the Future" series, Christopher Lloyd made a guest appearance on "Cheers" as Phillip Semenko, an eccentric artist who becomes involved with Diane. Lloyd's character brought a touch of eccentricity and drama to the show, leading to a significant turning point in Sam and Diane's relationship.
Before she became a series regular as Carla, Rhea Perlman made a guest appearance in the pilot episode of "Cheers." Her character was so popular that she was made a series regular. Perlman's initial appearance set the tone for her character, Carla, who would become a beloved and integral part of the series.
Roger Rees played Robin Colcord, a wealthy industrialist who becomes involved with Rebecca. His character added a touch of drama and romance to the show. Rees' character, with his wealth and charm, added a new dynamic to the series, showcasing the ups and downs of Rebecca's love life.
Tom Skerritt played Evan Drake, Rebecca's unrequited love interest. His character was a source of many comedic moments and plot twists. Skerritt's character, with his obliviousness to Rebecca's feelings, added a layer of humor and drama to the series, showcasing the complexities of unrequited love.
In the eighth episode of the second season, the affable bartender at Cheers, Coach Ernie, steps up to the plate to manage a little league baseball team at the request of Sam's friend. Given Coach's background as a professional baseball coach, one might assume that managing a group of children would be a walk in the park. However, Diane, concerned for Coach, finds her apprehensions justified when the team begins to disintegrate.
The episode features a guest appearance by Corey Feldman, a prominent child actor of the 80s known for his roles in films like The Goonies and Stand By Me. In this episode, Feldman portrays Moose, a member of the little league team who musters up the courage to inform Coach of their collective decision to quit the team.