In a surprising twist of television history, NBC’s iconic sitcom Cheers almost featured Bill Cosby as its lead bartender, Sam Malone. The network had secured a deal with Cosby in the 1980s, and the talented comedian was considered for the role. However, co-creators Les and Glen Charles had laid down specific guidelines for their show, which included avoiding well-known names and the use of character names in the title. As a result, Cosby’s casting was ultimately rejected.
At the time, Bill Cosby was regarded as America’s Dad and boasted a stellar reputation as both a comedian and an influential figure in the industry. Les Charles reflected on this opportunity, noting that having a familiar face like Cosby could have changed the dynamic of the show, which thrived on its ensemble cast and open dialogues between characters and patrons. “People will talk to a bartender in a way they wouldn’t any other stranger,” Glen stated, making Cosby an intriguing candidate for the role.
However, the Charles brothers were adamant that his presence would overshadow the ensemble they aimed to assemble, a decision that appears fortuitous today. Their choice to cast Ted Danson as Sam Malone paved the way for a beloved character, whose complexity as a bartender grappling with personal issues added depth to the series. It’s now hard to envision anyone else in the role, particularly given Danson’s ability to embody both charm and vulnerability.
Reflecting on this alternate casting, one can’t help but consider how different the legacy of Cheers—and indeed, television as a whole—might have been had Cosby taken on the role. Given Cosby’s fall from grace over the past few years, viewing old routines or clips from his shows has become increasingly difficult. Imagining an entire series centered on him dishing cocktails, particularly after his legal troubles, raises unsettling questions about the legacy of the character and the show itself.
In the end, the casting decisions made by the Charles brothers not only crafted a timeless classic but also inadvertently safeguarded the show’s reputation against the personal controversies surrounding one of the most notorious figures in television history. Cheers, with its perfect blend of humor and heart, continues to resonate as a cherished part of television lore, leaving a hopeful legacy for future generations of viewers.