Nicholas Lyndhurst, 63, makes feelings clear on axed role away from Only Fools in new ‘update’ over cancelled show
British actor Nicholas Lyndhurst is reportedly still hoping to continue the Frasier reboot on a new network following its recent cancellation by Paramount+.
The Only Fools and Horses legend remains committed to his role as Professor Alan Cornwall, with sources indicating he is carrying out steps to get the show back on track as he has “no intention of giving up on his American dream”.
The iconic sitcom, which returned in 2023 with Kelsey Grammer reprising his role as Dr Frasier Crane, was cancelled before its third season despite showing significant improvement throughout its run.
Both Lyndhurst and series Grammer are reportedly keen to find a new home for the series, building on the foundation laid in its first two seasons.
A source close to Lyndhurst claimed to The Sun: “The early episodes were a little shaky but they improved very quickly.”
“It takes time for the writers and actors playing the characters to really interact, and the second series saw that begin to pay off,” the insider added.
The source explained that the writers had grown to understand their characters better and now “all involved” are scrambling to find the show a new home.
“The writers knew who they were writing for and it got even better, so Nick and Kelsey and all involved would want the series to continue given the amount of creativity expended,” the source added.
Co-showrunner Chris Harris acknowledged the show’s growing strength, noting how the first season helped them find their footing.
Grammer has been particularly effusive in his praise for his British co-star, describing Lyndhurst as “the best actor I’ve ever worked with”.
The pair first met during the 2019 West End musical Man of La Mancha, forming a close bond that led to Lyndhurst’s casting in the Frasier revival.
Grammer has expressed ambitious plans for the show’s future, telling the Toronto Sun: “I want to do another 100 episodes at least.”
The veteran actor remains confident about the show’s potential, stating: “I think he’s going to be relevant and interesting because I intend to stay that way.”
The revival followed Frasier’s return to Boston, Massachusetts, where he faced new challenges and relationships.
The series featured Jack Cutmore-Scott as Frasier’s son Freddy, alongside Toks Olagundoye as Olivia and Anders Keith as Frasier’s nephew David.
Lyndhurst had been widely regarded as the breakout star of the sitcom, with his chemistry with Grammer particularly praised by critics and fans in the US.
The British actor’s performance as university professor Alan Cornwall marked a significant milestone in his career, successfully transitioning from his beloved British roles to American television.
Lyndhurst’s move to American television follows a distinguished career in British entertainment spanning five decades.
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The actor first gained national recognition in the late 1970s with roles in BBC sitcoms Going Straight and Butterflies.
He achieved household name status as Rodney Trotter in Only Fools and Horses, which was voted Britain’s Best Sitcom in a 2004 BBC poll.
His extensive career includes acclaimed performances in Goodnight Sweetheart and New Tricks, earning him two National Television Awards.
The actor’s successful transition to the Frasier reboot marks his latest achievement in a career that has consistently demonstrated his versatility on screen.