Back in Time Today
Remember those nights at the place where everybody knows your name? Cheers wasn’t just about the regular gang – it welcomed a parade of guest stars who later skyrocketed to fame. These appearances often served as launching pads for actors who would go on to dominate Hollywood. Let’s take a nostalgic trip back to the Boston bar and rediscover these famous faces who graced our screens before they became household names.
1. Emma Thompson’s Surprising Turn as Nanny G
Long before collecting her Oscar statuettes, Emma Thompson delighted Cheers fans as Frasier Crane’s first wife, Nanny G. Her Season 10 appearance showcased her comedic timing when she showed up at Frederick’s birthday party as a children’s entertainer. The British actress brought unexpected depth to what could have been a throwaway role. Her character stirred up old feelings for Frasier while creating absolute chaos at the celebration. Thompson’s performance hinted at the versatile talent that would later earn her acclaim in films like Howards End and Sense and Sensibility. Her brief stint at Cheers remains a delightful Easter egg in her impressive career.
2. Alex Trebek Hosted More Than Just Jeopardy!
The legendary Jeopardy! host stepped into Cheers during Season 8, playing himself in what became one of the show’s most memorable episodes. When mailman Cliff Clavin finally got his chance to compete on the quiz show, Trebek’s deadpan reactions to Cliff’s trivia obsession created comedy gold. Trebek maintained his professional demeanor even as Cliff managed to turn the game into a spectacular disaster. The episode culminated in Cliff’s infamous Final Jeopardy answer about ‘famous beer drinkers.’ This guest spot cemented Trebek’s status as a pop culture icon willing to poke fun at his own image, years before his numerous other cameos in shows like How I Met Your Mother.
3. Johnny Carson Brought The Tonight Show Magic
The king of late night made a royal appearance in Season 10 when Cliff’s joke submission to The Tonight Show led to unexpected results. Carson’s cameo was brief but meaningful – his star power elevated what could have been a simple subplot into something special. Viewers were treated to Carson’s trademark charm as he delivered Cliff’s joke on air. The moment perfectly captured the cultural significance of Carson’s show during that era, when getting a joke on The Tonight Show represented the pinnacle of comedic achievement. Fun fact: Carson rarely made television appearances outside his own show, making this Cheers cameo particularly noteworthy for television historians and fans alike.
4. Harry Connick Jr. Showcased Double Talent
Before his music and acting careers fully blossomed, Harry Connick Jr. charmed viewers as Woody’s cousin Russell Boyd in Season 10. His character’s southern charm and musical talent immediately captivated Rebecca, creating a storyline rich with romantic tension and humor. Connick didn’t just act – he performed at the piano, giving audiences a taste of the musical prowess that would make him famous. His natural charisma shone through even in this early role, making it clear he was destined for bigger things. The episode cleverly utilized Connick’s dual talents, allowing him to demonstrate both his acting chops and his musical gifts in one memorable appearance that hinted at his future star power.
5. Marcia Cross Brought Sisterly Rivalry
Years before terrorizing Wisteria Lane on Desperate Housewives, Marcia Cross stirred up drama as Rebecca’s sister Susan Howe in Season 7. Her appearance added fascinating layers to Rebecca’s backstory while showcasing the sibling rivalry that had defined their relationship. Cross brought an electric intensity to the role, demonstrating the dramatic flair that would later make her famous. The sisters’ competitive dynamic provided rich material for both actresses, particularly when Susan set her sights on Sam. This guest spot represented an important stepping stone in Cross’s career trajectory. Her portrayal of Susan revealed the commanding screen presence that would eventually make her one of television’s most recognizable villains as Bree Van de Kamp.
6. Lisa Kudrow’s Pre-Friends Comedy Glimpse
Before becoming Phoebe Buffay, Lisa Kudrow showed early flashes of her comedic genius as Emily in Season 8. Her character helped Woody prepare for a community theater play, creating situations that perfectly showcased her knack for physical comedy and offbeat timing. Though the role was small, Kudrow made it memorable with her distinctive energy. Viewers got an early glimpse of the quirky charm that would later make her a standout member of the Friends ensemble. The casting directors clearly recognized something special in Kudrow. Her brief appearance at Cheers served as a comedy appetizer before she would become part of one of television’s most beloved ensembles just a few years later.
7. Christopher Lloyd’s Eccentric Artist Stole Scenes
Fresh from his Doc Brown success, Christopher Lloyd brought his trademark eccentricity to Cheers as avant-garde artist Phillip Semenko in Season 2. His character was commissioned to paint Diane, leading to a pivotal moment in her relationship with Sam. Lloyd embodied the pretentious artist perfectly, creating a character who was simultaneously ridiculous and somehow believable. His peculiar mannerisms and intense delivery made every scene he appeared in utterly captivating. The portrait subplot became a crucial plot device that exposed the fundamental differences between Sam and Diane. Lloyd’s guest appearance proved that even early in its run, Cheers could attract top-tier talent who would contribute meaningfully to the show’s evolving storylines.
8. John Cleese’s Award-Winning Counseling Session
The Monty Python legend earned an Emmy for his brilliant turn as marriage counselor Dr. Simon Finch-Royce in Season 5. Cleese’s impeccable timing and growing exasperation as he deemed Sam and Diane hopelessly incompatible created comedy perfection. Starting with British restraint, Cleese masterfully escalated to magnificent outbursts as the couple pushed him to his breaking point. His character’s professional assessment that Sam and Diane were “two people who should never, ever be together” became a pivotal moment in their tumultuous relationship. What makes this appearance special is how Cleese adapted his comedic style to fit the show while still maintaining his distinctive flair. The role showcased his versatility and cemented his status as a comedy genius across continents.
9. Michael Richards’ Pre-Kramer Physical Comedy
Before sliding into Kramer’s apartment on Seinfeld, Michael Richards displayed his physical comedy prowess as Eddie Gordon in Season 4. His character attempted to take Sam’s job through a series of increasingly desperate and hilarious schemes. Richards brought his unique brand of gangly, high-energy performance to the role. Viewers familiar with his later work can spot early versions of the physical mannerisms that would define his portrayal of Cosmo Kramer. What’s remarkable is how Richards commanded attention even among Cheers’ established ensemble. His guest appearance serves as a fascinating look at a comedian honing his craft just before landing the role that would make him a household name and earn him multiple Emmy Awards.
10. Arsenio Hall Played Himself with Style
At the height of his late-night talk show fame, Arsenio Hall appeared as himself in Season 9, bringing his signature energy to Cheers. His cameo revolved around a meta-storyline where Rebecca’s romantic escapades became fodder for tabloid gossip and talk show jokes. Hall’s appearance captured the cultural moment perfectly – his talk show was a pop culture phenomenon in the early 90s. His interaction with the Cheers characters blurred the line between television reality and fiction in a way that delighted audiences. The episode cleverly commented on celebrity culture while giving viewers the thrill of seeing two television worlds collide. Hall’s natural charisma and comfort in front of the camera made his guest spot feel authentic rather than forced.
11. Wade Boggs Knocked It Out of the Park
Boston Red Sox legend Wade Boggs stepped up to the plate in Season 11, creating a memorable moment of hometown pride. His cameo involved a hilarious misunderstanding where bar patrons initially didn’t believe the real Wade Boggs was among them. The baseball Hall-of-Famer showed surprising comedy chops, playing along with the storyline with natural ease. His appearance particularly delighted Norm and Cliff, whose reactions to meeting the Sox hero perfectly captured the Boston sports fan experience. This guest spot represented Cheers at its most authentic Boston self. The show frequently referenced the city’s sports culture, and Boggs’ appearance strengthened that connection while giving viewers the fun of seeing a sports icon interact with their favorite fictional barflies.
12. Kate Mulgrew’s Political Romance
Years before commanding the USS Voyager, Kate Mulgrew navigated political waters as Councilwoman Janet Eldridge in Season 4. Her character’s romance with Sam added sophistication to the show while creating tension between his blue-collar world and her political ambitions. Mulgrew brought remarkable poise and intelligence to the role. Her chemistry with Ted Danson created a relationship that felt genuinely different from Sam’s usual romantic entanglements. The storyline explored class differences with surprising depth for a sitcom. Mulgrew’s commanding presence hinted at the leadership qualities she would later bring to her iconic Star Trek role, making this guest arc particularly interesting to revisit for fans who first met her as Captain Janeway.
13. Peri Gilpin’s Frasier Foreshadowing
In a delightful bit of TV synchronicity, Peri Gilpin appeared as reporter Holly Matheson in Season 11, shortly before becoming Roz Doyle on the Cheers spinoff Frasier. Her character interviewed Woody about his city council position, showcasing the sharp wit she would soon bring to her breakthrough role. Many viewers don’t realize Gilpin actually appeared on Cheers before landing her part on Frasier. Her performance demonstrated the quick timing and no-nonsense attitude that would make Roz such a beloved character. The producers clearly recognized her talent during this guest appearance. This brief role represents a fascinating transitional moment, as one legendary sitcom was ending while unknowingly setting the stage for its equally successful spinoff.
14. Tom Berenger’s Blue-Collar Charm
Oscar-nominated actor Tom Berenger brought rugged authenticity to Cheers as Rebecca’s plumber boyfriend Don Santry in Season 11. His character represented a turning point for Rebecca, who finally found happiness with someone outside her usual wealthy target demographic. Berenger played against his action hero image, creating a character who was genuinely sweet and down-to-earth. His performance helped give Rebecca’s story a satisfying conclusion as the series approached its finale. The chemistry between Berenger and Kirstie Alley felt natural and warm. Their relationship provided a refreshing change from Rebecca’s previous romantic disasters and showed meaningful character growth, with Berenger’s understated performance making the storyline all the more effective.
15. Harvey Fierstein’s Surprising Past Connection
Tony Award winner Harvey Fierstein brought his distinctive gravelly voice to Cheers as Rebecca’s high school sweetheart Mark Newberger in Season 11. His appearance led to hilarious revelations about Rebecca’s past that shocked her coworkers and delighted viewers. Fierstein’s natural warmth and humor made Mark instantly likable. The episode cleverly played with audience expectations, using Fierstein’s openly gay public persona to create unexpected twists in Rebecca’s backstory. What made this guest spot special was how it balanced comedy with genuine heart. Fierstein brought depth to what could have been a one-note joke character, creating a memorable appearance that gave fans new insight into Rebecca’s character while delivering plenty of laughs.
16. Fred Dryer Scored as Sam’s Former Teammate
Before becoming a television cop on Hunter, former NFL defensive end Fred Dryer played Sam’s ex-teammate turned sportscaster Dave Richards in Season 1. His recurring character added authentic sports credibility while expanding viewers’ understanding of Sam’s pre-bartending baseball career. Dryer’s natural athleticism and easy rapport with Ted Danson made their friendship feel genuine. His character served as both a connection to Sam’s glory days and a reminder of the career-ending injury that changed his life path. As one of the earliest recurring guest stars, Dryer helped establish the show’s connection to Boston sports culture. His transition from professional athlete to actor mirrored his character’s journey, adding an interesting meta layer to his appearances that sports fans particularly appreciated.
17. Dick Cavett Brought Talk Show Sophistication
Legendary talk show host Dick Cavett appeared as himself in Season 2, becoming entangled in a storyline where Sam ghostwrote his memoirs. Cavett’s dry wit and intellectual reputation created a perfect contrast to the bar’s regular atmosphere. The episode cleverly used Cavett’s real-life persona as a sophisticated conversationalist. His interactions with the Cheers gang highlighted the gap between highbrow and lowbrow humor that the show often explored. Cavett’s willingness to poke fun at his own image showed his comedic versatility. His appearance represented a time when talk show hosts were cultural tastemakers, adding a touch of class to the neighborhood bar while still delivering laughs.
18. Leah Remini’s Family Connection
Before ruling The King of Queens, a young Leah Remini appeared as Carla’s daughter Serafina Tortelli in Season 11. Her character inherited her mother’s fiery temperament but added her own unique twist, creating a believable family dynamic that fans loved. Remini’s natural comedic timing was evident even in this early role. Her interactions with Rhea Perlman showcased the mother-daughter chemistry that made their scenes together particularly enjoyable. This guest appearance allowed viewers to see another dimension of Carla’s character through her relationship with her daughter. Remini made such an impression that it’s easy to see why she would soon land leading roles – her confident screen presence and sharp delivery were already fully formed.
19. John Kerry’s Political Cameo
Long before becoming Secretary of State, Massachusetts Senator John Kerry made a brief but memorable cameo in Season 11. His appearance reflected the show’s deep connection to Boston politics and culture, giving viewers a thrill of recognition. Kerry played himself with surprising ease for a non-actor. The future presidential candidate’s willingness to appear on the show demonstrated Cheers’ cultural significance and its special place in Boston’s identity. This cameo serves as a fascinating time capsule of Kerry’s earlier political career. The brief appearance connected the fictional bar to the real world of Boston politics, adding authenticity to the show’s setting while giving local viewers an extra reason to cheer.
20. Jean Kasem’s Perfectly Contrasting Character
Radio personality Casey Kasem’s wife Jean created an unforgettable character as Loretta Tortelli, the blonde bombshell who married Carla’s ex-husband Nick. Her recurring role provided the perfect visual and personality contrast to Carla’s dark-haired intensity. Kasem embraced Loretta’s ditzy persona with total commitment. Her character’s obliviousness to Carla’s hatred created a comedic triangle that reliably delivered laughs whenever the characters shared a scene. What made Loretta special was how she managed to be simultaneously irritating and somehow likable. Kasem found the humanity in what could have been a one-dimensional character, making Loretta more than just a foil for Carla but a memorable part of the show’s extended family.
21. Dan Hedaya’s Unforgettable Ex-Husband
Character actor Dan Hedaya created one of television’s most memorable ex-husbands as Nick Tortelli, Carla’s sleazy former spouse who periodically reappeared to complicate her life. His recurring role across multiple seasons provided both comedy and emotional depth to Carla’s backstory. Hedaya’s performance balanced Nick’s repulsive qualities with unexpected charm. Somehow, viewers understood both why Carla married him and why she couldn’t stand him now. Nick became such a popular character that he eventually received his own short-lived spinoff, The Tortellis. Hedaya’s portrayal demonstrated how a guest character could become essential to a show’s mythology, with his appearances always guaranteeing dramatic fireworks and big laughs.