Now streaming and on DVD: 'Frasier' reboot improves as series wears on

That first episode of the original “Frasier” was so good, so expertly crafted, it’s hard to think it would come back in any better shape.

The Emmy-winning series did (this time minus everyone BUT Frasier) and stumbled when it first began on Paramount+. When it premiered last fall, it needed to set some ground rules before it found its footing.

Now, fully entrenched, it’s quite fun to watch.

If you haven’t caught up with the “new” version, it arrives on DVD this month.

There you’ll find Kelsey Grammer’s character has returned to Boston, hoping to rekindle his relationship with son Freddy (Jack Cutmore-Scott). Freddy, however, doesn’t really want to light that fire. He’s a firefighter living with a friend who has a child.

Frasier’s nephew, David (Anders Keith), is more interesting and more in keeping with brother Niles. Colleagues at Harvard (where Frasier now expounds) are a mixed bag. Some bring laughs, others are characters you tolerate.

What’s interesting is how producers have crafted the new world. Yes, it references the old one but, here, there aren’t Chihulys or duct-taped recliners to sully the fussy Frasier’s world. Where it really succeeds is in suggesting the world that begat “Frasier” – “Cheers.” There’s a well-stocked bar of Boston jokes and enough cameos to make you long for seconds.

Back to homepage

Subscriber Login

Keep reading with a digital access subscription.

Subscribe now

“Frasier” won’t nudge “The Bear” or “Hacks” as the best comedy on television but it does provide a bit of comfort in a medium that is overwhelmed by true-crime dramas.

Grammer hasn’t lost a step as the show’s lead and, as you’ll see in the handful of episodes, Keith is a great surrogate for the brother who shall not appear.

The theme song got a tweak, too, and just in case you missed some of Frasier’s annoyances, they return in different form.

Also this week: ‘A Home for the Holidays’

If you happened to miss this one when it first aired, you might want to pull out the Christmas albums, roast a turkey and celebrate the holidays in May.

Like so many Hallmark/Lifetime/Prime Video holiday films, this one features two people seemingly at odds coming together over Christmas. The two battle over the ownership of a house, learn to live together and, like “The Goodbye Girl,” discover they have plenty in common. It doesn’t star anyone you know but it has the proper vibes for a feel good binge. If you haven't put away the Christmas decorations, this could be a good reminder.