Frasier is full of surprises, and its characters are some of the best in sitcom history. Whether major or recurring, each role brings a one-of-a-kind piece to the puzzle that is Frasier's story. The cast helps distinguish Frasier from Cheers since most Frasier characters did not exist when the titular character lived in Boston.
With such a long run, Frasier has a sizable list of characters. Some stopped in and stayed awhile, and some never left. They're all special for different reasons. Here are ten fan favorites when it comes to Frasier's universe in Seattle, Washington.
Noel
Though he doesn't have many lines, Noel Shempsky from KACL is a quirky character who makes his mark on Frasier. He doesn't hide his love for Star Trek, and he likes to give his coworkers the "live long and prosper" sign. The awkward but endearing employee appears in twenty-two episodes of the series, and he consistently has a crush on Roz Doyle.
Gil
Gil Chesterton is a great character. He hosts the "Restaurant Beat" talk show at KACL radio. Roz and Frasier joke about Gil's sexuality. Because he has good taste in fine cuisine and loves musical theatre, Gil's coworkers often think he is gay. His wife, Deb, is never seen. The 1990s sitcom circuit sometimes lacked sensitivity and encouraged jokes that made fun of people's appearance, sexual orientation, or personality.
Bulldog
Bulldog Briscoe is a great addition to Frasier's cast. While hosting the Gonzo Sports Show on KACL, Bulldog plays some practical jokes on Frasier, who doesn't give Bulldog much respect.
Bulldog shows romantic interest in Roz, but they wind up being good friends. It's sad when Bulldog loses his job and his radio show over low ratings, and he's not on Frasier as often after it happens.
Lilith
Fans first meet Lilith on Cheers, but she is still a fan favorite on Frasier. Her name alone has demonic associations, and Lilith is a force to be reckoned with. She and Frasier marry on Cheers, but Lilith has an affair which breaks up the marriage. They are already divorced at the start of Frasier, but Lilith returns on the spin-off periodically since she and Frasier share a son, Frederick. Lilith's icy gaze adds to her clever characterization and dry sense of humor.
Eddie
Eddie is as much a character on Frasier as Frasier, himself. The dog brings his owner, Marty Crane, daily comfort and joy. Frasier and Niles aren't necessarily pet people, but they oblige their father's pet and come to appreciate Eddie's wit. The dog is well-trained and doesn't miss a beat in scenes with his human counterparts.
Frasier
Frasier Crane has one of the longest lives of any television character. Kelsey Grammer really takes advantage of the opportunity to develop his character more after Cheers. He is a favorite in that viewers are often rooting for him in his romantic pursuits, his family relationships, and his day-to-day victories. However, few would deny Frasier's prideful and frequently self-absorbed nature. As a psychiatrist with wealth, education, and good looks, Frasier gets a little cocky sometimes. But we still love him!
Niles
Niles, Frasier's younger brother, is also a psychiatrist. He spends a lot of episodes preoccupied with his wife, then ex-wife, Maris. Though we never see her, we know that Maris is no good for Niles.
Niles pines after Daphne endlessly, but he manages to be a good friend to her leading up to the day when their romance finally falls into place. David Hyde Pierce couldn't have done a better job with the intelligent, neurotic, and charming role.
Roz
Roz Doyle is the gal everyone wants to be friends with. She works with Frasier at the KACL radio station, but their friendship goes far beyond their working relationship. Frasier is a confidant to Roz in her most vulnerable times, and she encourages him and becomes invested in his family's lives, too. Frasier wouldn't be the same without Roz, her intuition and her style.
Marty
Marty Crane wins viewers over when they first meet him on Frasier. He is a retired police officer living with his oldest son, Frasier. Marty has a trusted canine companion (Eddie) and a great sense of humor. He usually rolls with the punches but is a sensitive man and a multi-dimensional character. As the series unfolds, we learn more and more about Marty's past with Niles and Frasier. Though the father-son relationships are complex, the family prevails and is carried by Marty's sensitivity, humor, and growth.
Daphne
Daphne Moon, Frasier's beloved Britisher, is the heart of the Crane home. She begins as the live-in caretaker for Marty Crane. In that role, Daphne becomes a member of the family. Frasier sometimes treats her poorly and expects her to do everything for him, but Daphne gives him a run for his money and keeps on spreading her light. She has "the sight" and uses her psychic energy in a number of episodes. Daphne is a compassionate woman who keeps her wits about her. No wonder Niles is in love with her.