Frasier

After a two decade absence Frasier is back but has it retained the magic that made the original series, such a roaring success? If the first two episodes are anything to go by the answer is "mostly", yes. The combination of Frasier Crane, played by Kelsey Grammer, combined with the comedic talents of Brit actor Nicholas Lyndhurst, probably best known for Only Fools and Horses, is a winning combination. Their talent really propels this show forward and that's in spite of the mixed bag of humour, which offers up genuine comedic gems but also a few damp squibs. The change in setting (Seattle to Boston) and the absence of well loved original cast members, who did not participate in this series for their own reasons or had passed on, does take a little getting used to. Frasier's dad (the actor passed away), has been replaced, in turn by the character of Frasier's fireman son. A son who now takes on the role of down to earth, working class counter balance, to Frasier's, snooty, elitist antics. In summary, whilst imperfect, the essence or if you like, the core, of this classic show, remains as charming and likeable as ever. Work is needed to hone the humour, in places but I suspect, as the new series progresses and finds its comedic feet, things will only improve for the better.