Frasier returns to television next month in a brand new season. I actually thought about putting out a post or video about a year ago. I decided at the time that it needed the first season to re-establish itself, the character of Frasier and introduce the new cast. I must say, as a fan of Only Fools and Horses, the inclusion of Nicholas Lyndhurst to Frasier is certainly intriguing. There is a lot going for the new season, a fresh cast but some old hands at the wheel too (not unlike Frasier when compared to Cheers).
Given what I’ve said about Frasier and Niles, it does give for a pretty unique opportunity. You have established characters that would feel natural if either one was given an adult diagnosis. The other interesting thing about the characters is that with both brothers being psychologists, you’d imagine that they would start to see the similarities. So to look into it would make perfect sense, regardless if it was Frasier, Niles or both of them.
I also don’t think it would require David Hyde Pierce to reprise the role if he didn’t want to. After all, Maris was a main character and I think, was only seen briefly in the episode Voyage of the Damned. Roughly ten seconds of screen time for a character that was referred to multiple times across the 11 seasons. It gives an option to follow this storyline in multiple ways. I for one, would love to see Niles again, it just means it’s optional, rather than necessary.
It would have to be considered, compassionate, and real, for it to work. However I do think it would be. As far as I am aware, there aren’t any stated late diagnosed autistic characters in TV or film. This would allow for representation that I think would be appreciated. Help others understand themselves and potentially seek out their own autism diagnosis. There is a lot of potential for genuine, honest representation and a snapshot of the journey you go through to get there.
All our best and love
Ross Fraser and Jeni Dern
Words – Ross A Fraser
Design App – Canva
It’s been more than 19 years since Frasier was a regular visitor to scheduled broadcasting. However, I have watched them many times since then. Needing the comforting and reassuring entertainment it provided. It became a favourite show, that I’ve returned to often over the years, and never tire of. There are not many characters/shows that I would suggest that go in this direction. Not established ones anyway, with Frasier (or Niles), it almost feels like a logical next step for the future of their character(s). Frasier returns... soon, and I honestly can’t wait.