“Cheers” is an American television sitcom that aired on NBC from September 30, 1982, to May 20, 1993, for 11 seasons and 275 episodes. Created by James Burrows, Glen Charles, and Les Charles, the show is set in a bar named Cheers in Boston, Massachusetts. The show’s name is a play on the idea of a place where everyone knows your name, which became its iconic theme song’s tagline.
The bar is a central gathering place for a diverse group of characters, each with unique quirks and personalities, creating a microcosm of American life and culture. “Cheers” creators had previously collaborated on the TV show “Taxi.” Inspired by the British sitcom “Fawlty Towers,” the creators aimed to develop a show centered around a confined setting with a colorful cast of characters. The concept of a bar as the primary setting was chosen for its potential to naturally introduce new characters and storylines,
given that people from all walks of life frequent bars. The character-driven humor, combined with sharp writing and witty dialogue, became the hallmark of “Cheers,” distinguishing it from other sitcoms of its time. The show is set in a fictional Boston bar called Cheers, located in the basement of the Beacon Hill neighborhood.
The bar itself is based on the Bull & Finch Pub, a real bar in Boston. Exterior shots of the pub were used in the show’s opening sequence, which helped cement its association with the actual location. The bar’s cozy, wood-paneled interior with its signature U-shaped counter serves as the backdrop for most of the action.
It is a welcoming environment where regulars and newcomers alike gather, making it the perfect setting for a sitcom that explores the camaraderie and conflicts among its characters. The main plotline of “Cheers” revolves around the relationships between the bar’s employees and its patrons.
At the center of the series is Sam Malone (played by Ted Danson), a former relief pitcher for the Boston Red Sox who owns Cheers. Sam is a recovering alcoholic and a notorious ladies’ man, whose charm and charisma often get him into trouble. The dynamic between Sam and Diane Chambers (Shelley Long), a highly educated and pretentious waitress, forms the crux of the early seasons.
Their on-again, off-again romantic tension provides much of the show’s drama and humor. As the series progresses, the focus shifts to other characters, including the gruff but lovable barmaid Carla Tortelli (Rhea Perlman), the dim-witted but sweet bartender Woody Boyd (Woody Harrelson), and the bar’s resident know-it-all, Cliff Clavin (John Ratzenberger).
Norm : Morning, everybody!
Woody : Beer, Mr. Peterson?
Norm : Little early in the day isn’t it, Woody?
Woody : Little early for a beer?
Norm : No, for stupid questions.
Another central figure is Norm Peterson (George Wendt), a perpetually unemployed accountant whose sardonic wit and love of beer make him a mainstay at Cheers. The ensemble cast’s chemistry and the depth of their characters allow for a wide range of storylines, from lighthearted comedy to more serious, character-driven narratives.
Main Cast
- Ted Danson – Sam Malone – Sam Malone is the charming owner and bartender of Cheers, a former relief pitcher for the Boston Red Sox who struggles with his past alcoholism and is known for his womanizing ways. Outside of Cheers, Ted Danson has appeared in other shows and films such as Becker (1998-2004), where he stars as a cranky doctor, CSI: Crime Scene Investigation (2011-2015), The Good Place (2016-2020), and movies like Three Men and a Baby (1987), Saving Private Ryan (1998), and Body Heat (1981).
- Shelley Long – Diane Chambers – Diane Chambers is an intelligent and somewhat pretentious waitress who starts working at Cheers after being left by her fiancé, often clashing with Sam Malone due to their romantic tension and her highbrow attitude. Shelley Long’s career beyond Cheers includes films like The Money Pit (1986), Troop Beverly Hills (1989), Outrageous Fortune (1987), and TV appearances in Modern Family (2009-2020) as DeDe Pritchett and Frasier (1993-2004), where she reprises her role as Diane.
- Nicholas Colasanto – Coach Ernie Pantusso – Coach Ernie Pantusso is a sweet-natured but somewhat clueless bartender at Cheers, who is a former baseball coach to Sam Malone and provides much of the show’s heart through his caring nature and humorous misunderstandings. Nicholas Colasanto’s work outside of Cheers includes appearances in shows like Starsky & Hutch (1975-1979) and The Rockford Files (1974-1980), as well as films such as Raging Bull (1980) and Family Plot (1976).
- Rhea Perlman – Carla Tortelli – Carla Tortelli is a tough, no-nonsense waitress with a sharp tongue and a large, chaotic family, known for her fierce loyalty to her friends at Cheers and her often cynical outlook on life. Rhea Perlman’s extensive career includes roles in TV shows such as Taxi (1979-1982), The Mindy Project (2013-2017), and Pearl (1996-1997), and films like Matilda (1996), Canadian Bacon (1995), and Class Act (1992).
- George Wendt – Norm Peterson – Norm Peterson is a regular at Cheers who is known for his love of beer and his humorous one-liners, often found sitting on his usual stool, where he makes observations about life and marriage. Outside of Cheers, George Wendt has appeared in TV shows like Wings (1990-1997), Sabrina the Teenage Witch (1996-2003), and Clipped (2015), as well as movies such as Fletch (1985), House (1985), and Gung Ho (1986).
- John Ratzenberger – Cliff Clavin – Cliff Clavin is a know-it-all mailman and regular at Cheers, who is known for his vast, often inaccurate trivia knowledge and his overbearing personality, which provides much of the show’s comedic relief. John Ratzenberger has voiced characters in the Toy Story series (1995-2019) and other Pixar films, appeared in TV shows like The Simpsons (1989-present) and 8 Simple Rules (2002-2005), and had a small role in The Empire Strikes Back (1980).
Cast Additions
- Woody Harrelson – Woody Boyd – Woody Boyd is a naive and good-natured bartender from Indiana who joins Cheers after the death of Coach, known for his innocent outlook on life and often comical misunderstandings. Woody Harrelson’s notable work outside of Cheers includes TV shows like True Detective (2014) and Will & Grace (2001-2006), and films such as Natural Born Killers (1994), The People vs. Larry Flynt (1996), Zombieland (2009), and Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri (2017).
- Kelsey Grammer – Dr. Frasier Crane – Dr. Frasier Crane is a psychiatrist who first appears as Diane Chambers’ boyfriend and later becomes one of the bar’s regulars, known for his sophisticated demeanor and frequent misunderstandings with the other patrons. Kelsey Grammer’s portrayal of Frasier Crane led to the successful spin-off Frasier (1993-2004), where the character continues his adventures in Seattle. Grammer has also appeared in shows like The Simpsons (1989-present) as the voice of Sideshow Bob, Boss (2011-2012), and The Last Tycoon (2016-2017). His film roles include X-Men: The Last Stand (2006), Toy Story 2 (1999), and Transformers: Age of Extinction (2014).
- Kirstie Alley – Rebecca Howe – Rebecca Howe is the bar manager who takes over after Sam Malone sells the bar, initially portrayed as a confident, ambitious businesswoman whose career ambitions often lead to comedic failures and personal mishaps. Kirstie Alley has appeared in other shows and films, including Veronica’s Closet (1997-2000), where she stars as the owner of a lingerie company, Fat Actress (2005), and as herself in Kirstie Alley’s Big Life (2010). Her notable film roles include Look Who’s Talking (1989), Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan (1982), and Drop Dead Gorgeous (1999).
- Bebe Neuwirth – Dr. Lilith Sternin – Dr. Lilith Sternin is a cold and intellectual psychiatrist who becomes Frasier Crane’s wife and later his ex-wife, known for her deadpan delivery and sharp wit, which contrasts with the other characters’ more laid-back personalities. Bebe Neuwirth has appeared in various shows and films, such as Frasier (1993-2004), where she reprises her role as Lilith, and Madam Secretary (2014-2019) as Nadine Tolliver. Her film credits include Jumanji (1995), How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days (2003), and The Faculty (1998). Additionally, she has a celebrated career on Broadway, winning Tony Awards for her performances in Sweet Charity (1986) and Chicago (1996).
The pilot episode of “Cheers” was shot on May 20, 1982, and the show premiered on NBC on September 30, 1982. Despite having low ratings initially, the show’s witty writing, character development, and ensemble cast quickly gained a dedicated fanbase, leading to its eventual success. Over its eleven-season run, “Cheers” became known for its sharp, character-based humor,
and the show’s success led to numerous awards, including 28 Primetime Emmy Awards. The series was produced by Charles/Burrows Productions in association with Paramount Network Television. “Cheers” was filmed in front of a live studio audience at Paramount Studios in Hollywood, California. This live filming approach contributed to the show’s authentic comedic timing
and the audience’s immediate reactions helped enhance the comedic elements of the episodes. The interior of the bar, with its iconic U-shaped counter and warm, wood-paneled décor, was meticulously designed to create a welcoming and familiar atmosphere. The exterior shots of Cheers were taken from the Bull & Finch Pub (now known as Cheers Beacon Hill) in Boston, Massachusetts.
This real-life bar, located on Beacon Hill, became a tourist attraction after the show gained popularity. The theme song of “Cheers,” titled “Where Everybody Knows Your Name,” was composed and performed by Gary Portnoy and Judy Hart Angelo. The song’s lyrics and melody perfectly captured the essence of the show’s setting, emphasizing the idea of a place where individuals could escape their everyday troubles and find camaraderie and support.
The song became an instant hit and is considered one of the most iconic TV theme songs of all time. Its catchy chorus and relatable message resonated with viewers, contributing to the show’s identity and its nostalgic appeal. The theme song’s opening piano riff and warm, inviting tone set the stage for each episode, reinforcing the bar’s role as a comforting and familiar space.
A Few of the Actors Who Made an Appearance on the Show
- Harry Anderson
- Wade Boggs
- Johnny Carson
- Dick Cavett
- Emma Thompson
- Alex Trebek
- Robert Urich
- Christopher Lloyd
- Leah Remini
- Nancy Cartwright
- LaTanya Jackson
- John Cleese
- Harry Connick Jr.
- Mike Ditka
- Barbara Feldon
- Arsenio Hall
- Doc Severinsen
- Kate Mulgrew
- Bill Medley
- Markie Post
- Pat Hingle
- John Daly
Season 1 – Episode 1 – “Give Me a Ring Sometime” – September 30, 1982 Plotline: Diane Chambers enters Cheers with her fiancé, but when he leaves her to get back with his ex-wife, Diane is left alone at the bar and reluctantly takes a job as a waitress. Season 1 – Episode 22 – “Show Down: Part 2” – March 31, 1983 Plotline: Diane’s feelings for Sam become more complicated when his brother, who is more successful and charming, comes to visit, leading to tension between the brothers.
Season 2 – Episode 5 – “Sumner’s Return” – November 3, 1983 Plotline: Diane’s former fiancé, Sumner Sloane, returns to Boston and attempts to rekindle his relationship with Diane, causing her to question her feelings for Sam. Season 2 – Episode 22 – “I’ll Be Seeing You: Part 2” – May 10, 1984 Plotline: The tension between Sam and Diane reaches a boiling point after Diane decides to break up with him over a conflict involving a painting and an artist Sam disapproves of.
Season 3 – Episode 1 – “Rebound: Part 1” – September 27, 1984 Plotline: Sam falls back into his old habits of heavy drinking after Diane leaves him, prompting the gang to enlist the help of a psychiatrist, Dr. Frasier Crane, to get him back on track. Season 3 – Episode 25 – “Rescue Me” – May 9, 1985 Plotline: Diane heads to Europe with Frasier, and at the last moment, she has second thoughts about her relationship with him and calls Sam from the plane for advice.
Season 4 – Episode 1 – “Birth, Death, Love and Rice” – September 26, 1985 Plotline: After Coach’s death, Woody Boyd arrives at Cheers looking for a job, claiming to have been a pen pal of Coach, and becomes the new bartender. Season 4 – Episode 24 – “Strange Bedfellows: Part 3” – May 8, 1986 Plotline: After Sam’s political ambitions are derailed by his relationship with a city council candidate, he decides to break things off and admits his feelings for Diane.
Season 5 – Episode 8 – “Knights of the Scimitar” – November 20, 1986 Plotline: Norm’s initiation into a new lodge goes awry when he finds out the club’s stringent rules and decides he wants out, but it’s not as simple as he thought. Season 5 – Episode 26 – “I Do, Adieu” – May 7, 1987 Plotline: Diane receives a book offer and decides to leave Boston to pursue her writing career, breaking up with Sam on their wedding day, ending their tumultuous relationship.
Season 6 – Episode 1 – “Home Is the Sailor” – September 24, 1987 Plotline: After Diane leaves, Sam sells Cheers and takes a year off. Upon his return, he finds the bar under new management, led by Rebecca Howe, and schemes to get his job back. Season 6 – Episode 25 – “Backseat Becky, Up Front” – May 5, 1988
Plotline: Rebecca’s desperation to marry her wealthy boss leads her to make a fool of herself at a company event, revealing her true feelings about him to the Cheers gang. Season 7 – Episode 4 – “One Happy Chappy in a Snappy Serape” – November 17, 1988 Plotline: Frasier decides to move to Mexico after feeling unappreciated by the gang at Cheers,
but they come to his rescue in an attempt to show him they care. Season 7 – Episode 22 – “The Visiting Lecher” – April 6, 1989 Plotline: A renowned poet visits Cheers, only for Rebecca to find out he is more interested in making a move on her than discussing his work.
Season 8 – Episode 6 – “The Stork Brings a Crane” – November 2, 1989 Plotline: Lilith goes into labor at Cheers, and Frasier is torn between his excitement over the impending birth of his child and his fear of becoming a father. Season 8 – Episode 26 – “Cry Harder” – May 3, 1990 Plotline: Rebecca’s relationship with Robin Colcord ends badly when his illegal dealings are revealed, causing her to question her choices and relationships.
Season 9 – Episode 2 – “Cheers Fouls Out” – October 4, 1990 Plotline: The gang at Cheers is invited to participate in a basketball game against Gary’s Olde Towne Tavern, and their competitive spirits lead to an intense showdown. Season 9 – Episode 22 – “Carla Loves Clavin” – April 4, 1991 Plotline: Carla pretends to have romantic feelings for Cliff to win a bet, but her plan backfires when Cliff takes her act seriously.
Season 10 – Episode 3 – “Madame LaCarla” – October 10, 1991 Plotline: Carla believes she has psychic abilities after predicting a series of events, leading her to make decisions that impact her life and the lives of others at the bar. Season 10 – Episode 25 – “An Old-Fashioned Wedding: Part 2” – May 14, 1992
Plotline: Woody and Kelly’s wedding day descends into chaos when a series of mishaps and misunderstandings threaten to ruin the event, putting everyone’s patience to the test. Season 11 – Episode 1 – “The Little Match Girl” – September 24, 1992 Plotline: Rebecca accidentally burns down a fancy restaurant and finds herself at a crossroads, struggling with her feelings for Robin and her future.
Season 11 – Episode 25 – “One for the Road: Part 3” – May 20, 1993 Plotline: In the series finale, Diane returns to Boston, rekindling her relationship with Sam, but both ultimately realize they belong to different worlds, leaving Cheers as their true home.
“Cheers” is often regarded as one of the greatest television shows of all time. The show’s success can be attributed to its clever writing, memorable characters, and the way it seamlessly blended humor with poignant moments.
The series also paved the way for the “workplace comedy” genre, influencing subsequent shows like “Friends,” “The Office,” and “Parks and Recreation.” The character of Frasier Crane (Kelsey Grammer) became so popular that he was given his own spin-off show, “Frasier,” which also achieved critical and commercial success.
Many of the random (and untrue) facts that Cliff Clavin offers up were ad libbed by Ratzenberger. Danson spent two weeks at a bartending school in Burbank, California as part of his training to play Sam. In order to nail the bar talk aspect of the series, the creators regularly visited bars in the Los Angeles area to eavesdrop on patrons’ conversations. In the series premiere, there’s an argument about the sweatiest movie ever made, which was lifted from one of these overheard conversations. The part of Frasier was written for John lithgow who turned it down.Though many of the non-regular bar patrons’ real names were used in filming, that Woody Harrelson ended up playing Woody Boyd is by sheer coincidence. The character’s name was written into the script long before any actors had auditioned for the role. It was important to the producers of Cheers that no tipsy bar patron ever drove him or herself home, so there are frequent references to calling cabs and designated drivers.
The legacy of “Cheers” extends beyond television; it has left an indelible mark on popular culture. The show’s theme song, “Where Everybody Knows Your Name,” is instantly recognizable and remains one of the most beloved TV themes.
The bar setting, with its emphasis on camaraderie and the importance of a social gathering place, resonated with audiences and has been emulated in various forms across different media.
Further Reading
Sources
- Wikipedia “Cheers” https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cheers
- Imdb “Cheers” https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0083399/
- Britannica “Cheers” https://www.britannica.com/topic/Cheers
- Mental Floss “30 Things You Might Not Know About Cheers” https://www.mentalfloss.com/article/56133/30-things-you-might-not-know-about-cheers
