‘Cheers’ farewells Diane

Press, 11 July 1988, Page 19

‘Cheers’ farewells Diane

After five years of playing Diane, the pre-

tentious barmaid in “Cheers,” Shelley Long makes her last appearance in the show tonight at 8.30 on Two. Sam and Diane are finally on their way to the altar, but their relationship seems to be headed relentlessly for the shoals in tonight’s climactic episode. Long’s departure from “Cheers” came about because the actor wanted to pursue a full-time film career and have a baby (not necessarily in that order). When she announced her decision to leave last year, the show’s producers were thrown into a state of near-panic.

Without their female star, they knew the show would be in trouble unless a new character could be dreamed up with appeal, presence and credibility. The “Cheers” regulars were less concerned. Said Ted Danson, who plays Sam, “It is a big choice for her and ultimately I think a good one for us, too, on the show, because it will stir up the pot. “It will not be the ‘Cheers’ series everyone has known but we also said that ‘Cheers’ without Coach (the late Nick Colasanto) would not be the ‘Cheers’ everyone knew,

and the show went on.” George Wendt, who plays the hen-pecked, beer-guzzling Norm, said he had no doubts the show would continue to rate in the top 10 in America, as it has always done. “And as for the plot, I know what will happen now. Cliff will finally have that sex change and take over as the waitress!” This idea did not meet with much support from the producers. The solution took a more predictable turn; Long is replaced by actor Kirstle Alley and all will be revealed next week.