Only Fools star cast as a boozy university professor

Nicholas Lyndhurst is to return to sitcom – starring opposite Kelsey Grammer in the sequel to Frasier.

Lyndhurst will play Alan Cornwall, described as ‘Frasier’s old college buddy turned university professor. British, boozy and larger than life, Alan has an intellect on par with Frasier’s—if only he ever felt like using it.

‘Alan’s mischievous streak might be just what Frasier could use to shake up his routine, while Frasier’s thoughtful guidance might help Alan find some of the direction he’s been missing in his own life.’

Known for Only Fools and Horses, Goodnight Sweetheart and Butterflies, Lyndhurst has kept a low TV profile in recent years, having had few credits since the crime series New Tricks ended in 2015.

However, he did star alongside Grammer in the Man of La Mancha for the English National Opera at the London Coliseum in 2019.

Lyndhurst’s involvement in Frasier was revealed by Variety, making him the first cast member to be confirmed for the new sitcom. None of Frasier’s other stars – David Hyde Pierce, Jane Leeves, or Peri Gilpin – are expected to join the revival. John Mahoney, who played Frasier’s dad Martin, died in 2018.

Little else is known about the series but the official billing reads: ‘Frasier is off to a different city with new challenges to face, new relationships to forge, and an old dream or two to finally fulfil. Frasier has re-entered the building!’

It will be made for the Paramount+ streamer in the US. It is not yet known if it will air on the UK version of that platform, or elsewhere.

Published: 14 Jan 2023