Overview

• 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.