“Cheers” Cast Returns to the Bar for Emmys 2024: “This Feels Nice”

In a heartwarming reunion that delighted fans and critics alike, the beloved cast of the iconic TV show “Cheers” returned to the bar that started it all for a special appearance at the Emmys 2024. The moment was filled with nostalgia, laughter, and a few tears as the actors, now legends in their own right, came together to celebrate the enduring legacy of the show that first aired over four decades ago.

The cast of "Cheers" reunited at the 75th annual Primetime Emmy Awards.

The Emmy Awards, known for recognizing excellence in television, chose to honor “Cheers” with a special tribute. The show, which originally ran from 1982 to 1993, remains a touchstone in TV history, praised for its witty writing, memorable characters, and its depiction of a Boston bar where “everybody knows your name.” The reunion at the Emmys brought together the original cast members, including Ted Danson (Sam Malone), Shelley Long (Diane Chambers), Rhea Perlman (Carla Tortelli), George Wendt (Norm Peterson), John Ratzenberger (Cliff Clavin), and Woody Harrelson (Woody Boyd).

The cast gathered to present the Best Directing of a Comedy Series and Best Writing in a Comedy Series statuettes. Both awards went to Hulu's "The Bear."

The segment began with a recreation of the iconic Cheers bar set, complete with the familiar neon sign and wooden stools. As the cast walked onto the stage, they were greeted with a standing ovation from the audience, a testament to the show’s lasting impact. Ted Danson, who played the charming bartender Sam Malone, took the lead in addressing the audience. “This feels nice,” he said, capturing the sentiment of the moment. “It’s incredible to be back here with all of you, and to see how much love people still have for ‘Cheers.'”

Shelley Long, whose character Diane Chambers was a central figure in the show’s early seasons, echoed Danson’s sentiments. “Coming back here brings back so many memories,” she said. “The laughter, the camaraderie, and the wonderful scripts that made us all fall in love with our characters and each other.”

Boston Red Sox third baseman Wade Boggs, center, poses, March 2, 1988, with the cast of the television comedy series "Cheers" during a break in rehearsal for an upcoming episode in which Boggs has a cameo appearance.  Cast members include, left to right:  John Ratzenberger, Rhea Perlman, George Wendt, Boggs, Woody Harrelson, Kirstie Alley and Ted Danson.  (AP Photo/Ira Mark Gostin)

Rhea Perlman, always the sharp-tongued Carla Tortelli, couldn’t resist a joke. “I told them to stock the bar with real drinks this time,” she quipped, earning laughs from her fellow cast members and the audience. George Wendt and John Ratzenberger also shared their reflections, reminiscing about the countless hours spent together on set and the lifelong friendships that were forged.

Woody Harrelson, who joined the cast in later seasons and became an instant fan favorite, spoke about the show’s universal appeal. “No matter where I go, people still shout ‘Woody!’ at me,” he said with a grin. “It’s amazing how ‘Cheers’ has touched so many lives around the world.”

"Cheers", which aired 275 episodes, spawned the critically acclaimed 11-season spinoff “Frasier,” which starred Grammer and took home 37 Emmys.

The reunion wasn’t just a walk down memory lane; it also included a tribute to the late Nicholas Colasanto, who played the lovable Coach, and Kirstie Alley, who portrayed Rebecca Howe. The cast shared stories about their departed friends, honoring their contributions to the show’s success and their lasting impact on the “Cheers” family.

As the segment concluded, the cast raised their glasses in a toast to the show’s enduring legacy and its fans. “Cheers to everyone who made this possible, and to all of you who have kept ‘Cheers’ alive in your hearts,” said Ted Danson. The audience responded with another standing ovation, a fitting end to a magical moment in television history.

The “Cheers” reunion at the Emmys 2024 was more than just a nostalgic trip; it was a celebration of a show that captured the essence of friendship, community, and the simple joys of life. It reminded everyone why “Cheers” continues to hold a special place in the hearts of viewers worldwide.

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