Episode Summary: "Where Everybody Knows Your Name with Ted Danson and Woody Harrelson (sometimes)" – Featuring Kelsey Grammer

Podcast Information:

• Title: Where Everybody Knows Your Name with Ted Danson and Woody Harrelson (sometimes)
• Hosts: Ted Danson & Woody Harrelson
• Guest: Kelsey Grammer
• Episode: Kelsey Grammer (Re-Release)
• Release Date: April 16, 2025

Introduction

In this heartfelt episode of Where Everybody Knows Your Name, Ted Danson and Woody Harrelson reconnect with their longtime friend and Cheers co-star, Kelsey Grammer. Together, they revisit cherished memories from their time on the iconic sitcom, delve into personal journeys, and explore profound topics such as loss, faith, and the enduring strength of friendship.

Reuniting on Shared Memories

Revisiting the Cheers Era

The conversation kicks off with nostalgic reminiscences about their eight-year stint together on Cheers. Ted Danson reflects on the daily interactions that cemented their bond:

Ted Danson [00:43]: "Every day making each other giggle, laugh, sharing our lives."

Kelsey Grammer adds humor by recalling how they navigated the ensemble cast dynamics:

Kelsey Grammer [00:35]: "Oh, yeah, we had some fun."

Establishing Lasting Friendships

They delve into their relationships with other cast members, particularly Kathy McGrath, sharing anecdotes that highlight their camaraderie:

Kelsey Grammer [02:09]: "We had a bit of a relationship on and off."

Ted shares a lighthearted story about his sailboat and the humorous consequences of a conversation with Kelsey's wife, showcasing the playful dynamics among them:

Ted Danson [02:44]: "I froze. And I thought, what could I possibly say?... So I sold the boat."

Kelsey Grammer’s Personal Journey

Memoir Insights: "Karen: At Brother's Remembrance"

Kelsey Grammer opens up about his forthcoming memoir, detailing the profound impact of his late sister Karen:

Kelsey Grammer [02:37]: "It's really what the book is about... how connected she was to other people in the family."

Navigating Tragedy and Loss

He shares deeply personal stories, including the tragic deaths of his grandfather and father, and the emotional toll it took on him:

Kelsey Grammer [13:26]: "He was killed by a taxi cab driver... it was kind of like, we'll get the white guy."

These experiences, Kelsey explains, were pivotal in steering him toward the arts as a means of coping and expressing himself:

Kelsey Grammer [15:58]: "The death of Gordon and the subsequent loss of my dad... turned me toward art."

Coping with Loss Through Creativity

Embracing the Arts as a Sanctuary

Kelsey delves into how Shakespeare and theatre provided solace during his darkest times, allowing him to endure and find dignity amidst chaos:

Kelsey Grammer [16:04]: "Shakespeare turned me toward art... endure the whips and scorns of time."

Overcoming Substance Abuse

He candidly discusses his struggles with substance abuse as a form of self-medication to escape the pain of his losses:

Kelsey Grammer [21:35]: "It was more radical than medicating... I got pretty close on it."

Ted and Woody empathize, reflecting on how their own friendships provided support during tumultuous periods.

Family and Relationships

Building a Large, Loving Family

The trio shares stories about their families, highlighting the joys and challenges of parenthood:

Ted Danson [46:21]: "I'm never happier than when I have all of my kids in the same room."

Kelsey speaks emotionally about his children and the support system his wife provides:

Kelsey Grammer [45:47]: "We had a beautiful girl named Faith... and then we had Gabriel."

Enduring Friendships and Support Systems

They reminisce about their enduring friendships and the importance of mutual support, both on and off the set:

Woody Harrelson [72:36]: "It's always a real occasion when we get together."

Kelsey Grammer [72:36]: "It is a joy to know you. It always has been."

Faith and Spirituality

Kelsey’s Spiritual Awakening

Kelsey shares a transformative spiritual experience aboard a plane, which solidified his faith and influenced his creative endeavors:

Kelsey Grammer [58:38]: "Jesus is sitting next to me and talking to me... I was saved."

He discusses how his upbringing in Christian Science and a deep spiritual belief system helped him navigate through personal tragedies:

Kelsey Grammer [58:37]: "Sin, disease and death are not real. All is infinite mind and its infinite manifestations."

Woody’s Spiritual Exploration

Woody Harrelson reflects on his own journey, transitioning from considering ministry to embracing a more hedonistic lifestyle, and later finding renewed spiritual insight through literature:

Woody Harrelson [66:00]: "I read Autobiography of a Yogi and realized there is a God."

Reflections and Life Lessons

Embracing Free Will and Destiny

The conversation touches on the balance between free will and destiny, emphasizing the importance of making conscious, positive choices:

Kelsey Grammer [71:00]: "We are meant to enjoy the ride and we're supposed to have free will."

Ted adds his perspective on enjoying life’s unpredictability and finding control through personal agency:

Ted Danson [65:27]: "We are supposed to have free will. We are definitely here for free will."

Cherishing the Present Moment

Both hosts and Kelsey stress the significance of living in the moment, making the best choices, and appreciating the connections that define their lives:

Ted Danson [70:42]: "Try to be a little better every day."

Kelsey Grammer [70:43]: "You do know what the best choice is in every moment."

Conclusion

The episode culminates in a heartfelt affirmation of their enduring friendships and the lasting impact of their time on Cheers. Ted, Woody, and Kelsey express gratitude for the shared experiences that have shaped their lives and careers, reinforcing the podcast’s theme of connection and recognition.

Kelsey Grammer [72:36]: "It is a joy to know you. It always has been."

Ted Danson [73:05]: "Without Cheers, I would not be sitting here talking to you guys."

This episode not only serves as a nostalgic trip down memory lane but also offers profound insights into personal growth, resilience, and the unbreakable bonds formed through shared history.

Notable Quotes

• Ted Danson [00:43]: "Every day making each other giggle, laugh, sharing our lives."
• Kelsey Grammer [02:37]: "It's really what the book is about... how connected she was to other people in the family."
• Kelsey Grammer [58:38]: "Jesus is sitting next to me and talking to me... I was saved."
• Woody Harrelson [66:00]: "I read Autobiography of a Yogi and realized there is a God."
• Ted Danson [70:42]: "Try to be a little better every day."
• Kelsey Grammer [72:36]: "It is a joy to know you. It always has been."

Final Thoughts

This episode of Where Everybody Knows Your Name is a touching exploration of friendship, personal struggles, and the search for meaning beyond fame. Through candid conversations and shared laughter, Ted, Woody, and Kelsey offer listeners a window into their lives, celebrating the enduring connections that make their bond unbreakable.