The situation comedy Frasier, which debuted on NBC in 1993 and remained on the air in 2002, depicted the neurotic misadventures of Dr. Frasier Crane, a conceited psychologist living in Seattle, Washington. The series, a spin-off of the popular sitcom (situation comedy; see entry under 1950s—TV and Radio in volume 3) Cheers, was widely recognized as one of television's most sophisticated programs. In 1998, the show became the first program to win five consecutive Emmy Awards for Outstanding Comedy Series. Frasier offered viewers witty, literate dialogue and often-absurd humor not evident in other sitcoms.

Frasier Crane (Kelsey Grammar, 1955–) first appeared on Cheers (see entry under 1980s—TV and Radio in volume 5) in 1984 as a rival suitor to Sam Malone (Ted Danson, 1947–) for the affections of barmaid Diane Chambers (Shelley Long, 1949–). Frasier was highly educated, somewhat effeminate, snobbish, and a perfect contrast to the jock bar-owner Malone. When Cheers left the air...