One of the most beloved sitcoms of the 80s and 90s didn’t start off that way – after its 1982 premiere, Cheers was on the chopping block for NBC, as it ranked nearly last in the ratings. Due to a loyal – and growing – fan base, who was eager to see the ups and downs of the first “will they or won’t they” couple, Sam and Diane, the series eventually grew to a top-ten certified hit for eight of its 11 seasons. Cheers spent one season at number one and became one of the most popular series in history; its series finale was watched by an estimated 93 million viewers. We take a close and intimate look at the early days of Cheers, the shock and awe of Shelly Long’s decision to leave the series during its heyday, the casting of unique and memorable characters, and how Cheers became a true destination for anyone who wanted to go “where everybody knows your name.”
