Kelsey Grammer recently opened up about his decades-long silence with Cheers co-star Ted Danson, revealing that the two hadn’t spoken for 30 years following a tense exchange.
Speaking to the New York Post, the Jesus Revolution actor reflected on a difficult period in his life, admitting he struggled with self-doubt and heavy drinking at the time. He recalled that their falling out stemmed from a candid comment Danson made.
“Ted came up to me and said, ‘You know, I’m kind of mad at you that sometimes you don’t show up ready to go,’” Grammer shared. Instead of pushing back, he simply responded, “Okay, I respect that.”
Though this conversation ended the immediate issue, it also marked the last time they spoke for three decades. According to Grammer, Danson distanced himself from their friendship to “protect himself.”
For those unfamiliar, both actors were key figures in Cheers, one of the most beloved sitcoms of its time. Grammer joined in Season 3 as Dr. Frasier Crane, a recurring character, before being promoted to the main cast in Season 5. Meanwhile, Danson played Sam Malone, the charismatic bartender and lead of the show.
The sitcom ran for 11 seasons, concluding in 1993, but while Cheers ended, the silence between its two stars continued for much longer.