Cast of Cheers Then and Now: Where are the Cast of Cheers Now?
by Reshwanth A
Updated Jun 08, 2023
Cheers ( TV Series )
Cheers, an illustrious American sitcom, graced the airwaves of NBC from the hallowed date of September 30, 1982, to the sacred closing curtain on May 20, 1993. Across the expansive expanse of 11 glorious seasons, the series unfurled its narrative tapestry through the medium of 275 captivating half-hour episodes. The mantle of production was dutifully carried by the esteemed Charles/Burrows/Charles Productions, in fruitful collaboration with the venerable Paramount Network Television.
At its genesis, the creative ingenuity of James Burrows intertwined with the creative prowess of Glen and Les Charles, birthing a masterpiece of television history. The backdrop of this sublime creation is none other than the eponymous bar nestled within the bustling embrace of Boston, serving as a magnetic haven where the denizens of the city gather to partake in libations, revel in relaxation, and engage in the symphony of socialization.
Cast of Cheers Then and Now
Ted Danson
Ted Danson portrayed the emblematic mixologist Sam Malone on the television series Cheers throughout its entire 11-season run. He garnered accolades, including an Emmy Award, for his remarkable portrayal. Subsequently, Ted embarked on prominent ventures such as the popular sitcom Becker and the enthralling crime drama CSI: Crime Scene Investigation.
He showcased his talent in the realm of legal drama with the series Damages and joined the cast of Fargo for its second season. His most recent triumph was his portrayal of Michael in the critically acclaimed sitcom The Good Place, where he shared the screen with Kristen Bell. Furthermore, he is poised to take on a starring role in a brand-new sitcom titled Mr. Mayor in 2021.
Shelley Long
Shelley Long endeared audiences with her performance as the beloved character Diane Chambers. She secured an Emmy Award in 1983 for her outstanding portrayal as the leading actress in a comedy series. Additionally, she garnered two Golden Globe Awards. After bidding adieu to the show following its fifth season in 1987, Shelley made a triumphant return for the series finale in 1993.
She also reprised her role in the Cheers spinoff, Frasier. Beyond Cheers, Shelley graced the silver screen in notable films such as Troop Beverly Hills, The Brady Bunch Movie, A Very Brady Sequel, and Dr. T & The Women. Notably, she portrayed DeDe Pritchett in several episodes of the television series Modern Family. Recently, she lent her voice to the character of Grandma Murphy in the TV series Milo Murphy’s Law.
Woody Harrelson
Woody Harrelson entered the scene as the bartender Woody Boyd, making his debut in the fourth season of Cheers. His performance garnered him an Emmy Award. Subsequently, Woody ventured into the realm of cinema and achieved great acclaim, receiving three Oscar nominations for his roles in The People vs. Larry Flynt, The Messenger, and Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri.
He captivated audiences with his stellar performance alongside Matthew McConaughey in the critically acclaimed first season of True Detective. Woody's recent endeavors include notable films such as Midway and Zombieland: Double Tap. Furthermore, he showcased his versatility by portraying Joe Biden in three episodes of Saturday Night Live in 2019. Audiences can anticipate his appearance in the forthcoming sequel to Venom.
Rhea Perlman
Rhea Perlman portrayed the waitress Carla Tortelli throughout the entirety of Cheers, spanning an impressive 275 episodes. Her exceptional portrayal earned her four Emmy Awards for her depiction of Carla. Following her tenure on Cheers, she graced the silver screen with her talent, starring in movies such as Matilda, Canadian Bacon, and Poms.
Rhea also reunited with her Cheers co-star Kirstie Alley on the sitcom Kirstie in 2013. Furthermore, she portrayed Annette Castellano on The Mindy Project. Her recent ventures include roles in The Goldbergs and Harley Quinn.
George Wendt
George Wendt exuded charisma in his portrayal of Norm Peterson, an iconic character on Cheers. His remarkable performance led to a remarkable streak of six consecutive Emmy nominations in the category of Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series. Following the conclusion of Cheers in 1993, George took center stage in his own eponymous show, The George Wendt Show, although its tenure lasted a mere six episodes.
Over the years, George has graced the small and big screens, leaving his mark in various television shows and movies. Notably, he took on the role of Edna Turnblad in the revered Broadway production of Hairspray. His most recent appearances include a guest spot on The Goldbergs, the television movie Christmas 9 to 5, and the film Stealing A Survivor.
Kirstie Alley
Kirstie Alley graced the ensemble of Cheers in 1987, assuming the role of Rebecca Howe. Her remarkable performance garnered prestigious accolades, including an Emmy Award and a Golden Globe. Amidst her tenure on Cheers, she dazzled audiences with her charismatic presence in the blockbuster sensation Look Who's Talking and its subsequent installments.
The thespian also left an indelible mark in cinematic creations such as It Takes Two and Deconstructing Harry, among others. She ventured into the realm of television once more with her commanding portrayal in the sitcom Veronica's Closet, captivating viewers for three seasons. Furthermore, Kirstie made captivating appearances on the highly acclaimed dance competition show Dancing With the Stars during both the twelfth and fifteenth seasons.
She brought her acting prowess to the realm of horror in her compelling portrayal of Ingrid Hoffel in the second season of Scream Queens. Most recently, Kirstie delivered a riveting performance in the Lifetime movie You Can't Take My Daughter, released in 2020. Beyond her acting endeavors, Kirstie assumed the role of spokesperson for Pier One and Jenny Craig. Tragically, Kirstie departed from this world on December 5, 2022, succumbing to the ravages of colon cancer at the age of 71. Her beloved children, William and Lillie, shared the heartbreaking news of her passing via her official Twitter account.
Kelsey Grammer
Kelsey Grammer made his initial foray into the Cheers universe in 1984, embodying the character of Frasier Crane. He adorned the screen with his brilliant portrayal until the series reached its culmination in 1993. Following his remarkable stint on Cheers, Kelsey ventured into the realm of spinoffs, headlining the eponymous Frasier, which enthralled audiences from 1993 to 2004.
His prodigious talent was duly recognized with four esteemed Emmy Awards for his indelible portrayal. In addition to his noteworthy depiction of Frasier, Kelsey etched his mark in the animated realm by lending his voice to the iconic character Sideshow Bob on The Simpsons and captivating audiences as Mayor Tom Kane on Boss. Furthermore, Kelsey's cinematic repertoire boasts a notable portrayal of Dr. McCoy/Beast in the esteemed X-Men: The Last Stand.
The thespian's versatility extends to the theatrical domain, where he has showcased his prowess as an accomplished stage actor. Recently, Kelsey made captivating guest appearances in an episode of Carol's Second Act and the film Money Plane.
John Ratzenberger
John Ratzenberger portrayed the character of Cliff Clavin, the amiable postman, in the widely acclaimed television series Cheers. Subsequent to the momentous 11-season run of Cheers, John embarked on a remarkable journey lending his vocal talents to the endearing persona of Hamm in the illustrious animated franchise Toy Story, spanning across three sequels.
Notably, he stands alone as the solitary voice actor to grace every production emanating from the esteemed studios of Pixar. Over the course of his illustrious career, he has made notable appearances in a plethora of television shows, including but not limited to 8 Simple Rules, Drop Dead Diva, Legit, and numerous others. It is worth mentioning that John commendably assumed the position vacated by Vincent Pastore on the immensely popular show Dancing with the Stars after the latter abruptly terminated his participation after a mere week of training.
Additionally, he served as the esteemed host of the documentary series Made In America from the years 2004 to 2008. As of late, John has contributed his exceptional talents to the Disney Channel series Just Roll With It and the captivating animated spectacle crafted by Pixar titled Onward.
Bebe Neuwirth
Bebe Neuwirth splendidly graced the screen as Dr. Lilith Sternin, the intellectual and enigmatic wife of Frasier Crane, in both the highly acclaimed sitcom Cheers and its subsequent spin-off series Frasier. Her remarkable portrayal earned her the prestigious accolade of two Emmys, a testament to her unparalleled talent. Beyond her television endeavors, Bebe stands as a distinguished luminary in the world of Broadway, captivating audiences with her impeccable performances.
Following her tenure on Cheers, she spectacularly assumed the iconic role of Velma Kelly in the resplendent revival of the renowned musical Chicago in the year 1996. Furthermore, she captivated audiences with her exceptional portrayal of Morticia Addams in the theatrical adaptation of The Addams Family, which graced the illustrious stages of Broadway.
Bebe mesmerized viewers in her portrayal of Nadine Tolliver in the acclaimed CBS series Madam Secretary. Her remarkable presence extended to the silver screen, as she portrayed the character of Nora Shepherd in the captivating 1995 film Jumanji, and remarkably reprised the same role in the 2019 sequel titled Jumanji: The Next Level.
Where are the cast of cheers now?
Ted Danson
Ted Danson has persistently flourished in his triumphant vocation as an actor, bestowing his exceptional aptitude upon both the silver screen and the small screen. He acquired wide-ranging acclaim for his portrayal in the resounding series "The Good Place" and presently enthralls spectators in the enthralling crime drama "CSI: Vegas."
Shelley Long
Shelley Long, renowned for her multifaceted histrionic capabilities, has graced a plethora of television exhibitions and cinematic ventures. Most recently, she gratified viewers with her captivating renditions in the beloved series "Modern Family" and the heartwarming cinematic creation "A Christmas in Tennessee."
Kirstie Alley
Kirstie Alley has artfully exhibited her talents in the realms of both acting and reality television. Admirers may vividly recall her awe-inspiring tenure on the illustrious platform "Dancing with the Stars" and her lead portrayal in the TV Land series "Kirstie."
Rhea Perlman
Rhea Perlman has perpetually beguiled audiences with her thespian prowess in illustrious television spectacles such as "The Mindy Project" and "Me, Myself & I." Additionally, she graced the silver screen with her presence in the cinematic masterpiece "Lemon" and assumed a recurring role in the esteemed series "Pearson."
John Ratzenberger
John Ratzenberger has garnered triumph as a prominent vocal artist, particularly through his fruitful affiliations with Pixar. His distinctive vocal timbre reverberates through the adored creations "Soul" and "Luca." Moreover, he has made notable appearances in esteemed series such as "The Ranch" and "Young Sheldon."
George Wendt
George Wendt, armed with an extensive portfolio of cinematic and televisual ventures, persistently captivates audiences with his exceptional performances. Recently, he made a notable appearance in the heartwarming series "Family Reunion" and left an indelible mark in the motion picture "Here Today."
Bebe Neuwirth
Bebe Neuwirth has gracefully traversed the realms of television and theater, effortlessly mesmerizing viewers with her remarkable portrayal in the series "Madam Secretary" and flawlessly exhibiting her talents on the grandiose silver screen in "Jumanji: The Next Level." Additionally, she has graced the esteemed stages of Broadway, leaving an indelible impression with her remarkable contribution to the illustrious show "The Addams Family."
Woody Harrelson
Woody Harrelson has relished a prolific career encompassing both the cinematic and televisual realms. He garnered resounding critical acclaim for his remarkable performances in projects of great magnitude such as "True Detective" and "Zombieland: Double Tap." Audiences have also borne witness to his exceptional talent through his appearances in cinematic creations like "Venom: Let There Be Carnage" and the illustrious award-winning masterpiece "No Country for Old Men."
How Old was The Cast of Cheers When it Started
Kelsey Grammer
27
Woody Harrelson
24
Nicholas Colasanto
58
Ted Danson
35
Rhea Perlman
34
Shelley Long
33
John Ratzenberger
35
Kirstie Alley
36
George Wendt
34
Bebe Neuwirth
27
Cast of Cheers Season 1
Age during Season 1
Cast of Cheers Still Alive
The cherished legacy of Cheers endures, and it is heartening to note that many members of its esteemed cast still grace the realm of the living. Ted Danson, whose embodiment of the charismatic bar owner Sam Malone remains etched in our hearts, continues to illuminate our screens with his undeniable talent. Rhea Perlman, the fiery force behind the sharp-witted Carla Tortelli, enchants us with her magnetic presence.
George Wendt, forever etched in our memories as the lovable regular Norm Peterson continues to bring joy to audiences with his enduring charm. John Ratzenberger, the epitome of comedic brilliance as the know-it-all Cliff Clavin, reminds us that laughter knows no bounds. Shelley Long, whose portrayal of the spirited Diane Chambers captivated us, continues to grace the world with her remarkable talents.
Bebe Neuwirth, the enigmatic Lilith Sternin, captivates us with her unparalleled grace and artistry. And last but not least, Woody Harrelson, whose endearing portrayal of Woody Boyd charmed us all, continues to shine as a versatile actor. The fact that these talented individuals are still among us is a testament to their enduring impact and the timeless magic of Cheers.
Cast of Cheers Then and Now - FAQs
Ted Danson, who portrayed the iconic character of Sam Malone, continues to be an active and highly regarded actor in the entertainment industry. He has embarked on various projects since Cheers, including his notable role in the critically acclaimed series "The Good Place," and currently stars in the crime drama series "CSI: Crime Scene Investigation."
Rhea Perlman, a talented and versatile actress, has continued to grace both the small and big screens with her exceptional performances. Since Cheers, she has appeared in numerous television shows and films, including her role as Danny DeVito's wife in the hit series "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia" and the comedy-drama film "The Sessions."
George Wendt remains active in the entertainment industry, delighting audiences with his presence. Following his remarkable stint on Cheers, he has made appearances in various television series, including "Modern Family" and "Saturday Night Live," and has also ventured into the world of theater, showcasing his talent on stage.
John Ratzenberger, known for his portrayal of the loquacious mailman Cliff Clavin, has continued to establish his mark in the industry. Notably, he has lent his voice to numerous characters in various Pixar films, becoming a fixture in the animation world. Additionally, he has made appearances in television shows and movies, showcasing his versatility as an actor.