‘Cheers’ Creators Reflect on Shelley Long’s Departure and Ted Danson’s Role in Casting Woody Harrelson
The co-creators and stars of the iconic sitcom discuss the challenges of losing Shelley Long and the pivotal casting of Woody Harrelson on their podcast.
- Shelley Long's departure after Season 5 of 'Cheers' caused 'sheer panic' among the show's creators, who feared the series might not survive without her.
- The creators credited Long's performance as Diane Chambers with providing the early momentum and stability that helped the show succeed in its first seasons.
- Ted Danson, who played Sam Malone, praised Long's talent and described her as 'astounding' and instrumental to the show's initial success.
- Woody Harrelson joined the cast in Season 4, replacing the late Nicholas Colasanto, with Danson advocating strongly for his casting over another actor.
- The creators noted Harrelson brought a unique energy and unpredictability to the role of Woody Boyd, earning him five Emmy nominations and one win.
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