Where was Cheers filmed?
1982
City Locations
Boston (USA), Los Angeles (USA)
Location Types
Film Studio, Bar, House
Location Styles
Beachfront, Retro, Mid-Century Modern
About Cheers
Cheers is the classic American sitcom that follows the lives of the patrons and staff of a bar in Boston, Massachusetts. The show follows Sam Malone, a former Red Sox relief pitcher who now owns the bar and serves as head bartender. Bartender Coach Pantusso, waitresses Diane Chambers and Carla Tortelli, regulars Norm Peterson and Cliff Clavin, and other memorable characters like Woody Boyd, Lilith Sternin, Frasier Crane, and Rebecca Howe join him. Through eleven seasons of laughs and heartwarming moments, viewers have grown to love this beloved series. A unique fact about Cheers is that it was one of the first series in television history to feature an all-encompassing theme song, assumed to be part of the universe. Each episode would begin with a jazzy rendition of "Where Everybody Knows Your Name" playing in the background as characters interacted. This song became one of the most iconic theme songs in TV history. Cheers aired its last episode in 1993, viewed by a staggering 80 million people – making it one of the most highly-rated finales for any scripted television series. After its debut in 1982, Cheers faced possible cancelation during its first season due to low ratings, ranking 74th out of 77 shows. However, against the odds, it eventually became a massive hit in the United States, consistently earning top-10 ratings for eight out of 11 seasons. It even claimed the number-one spot in season 9. Cheers found its place among the Must See TV lineup on NBC's Thursday nights, captivating audiences throughout its run. The highly anticipated series finale in 1993 became the most-watched TV episode of the entire decade, and its success extended worldwide through syndication, with the show's 275 episodes reaching audiences across the globe. With an outstanding achievement of 28 Primetime Emmy Awards won out of a record-breaking 117 nominations, Cheers proved its comedic brilliance and enduring popularity throughout its remarkable 11-season journey.
Cheers Locations
The sitcom Cheers used two of the most iconic cities in the United States for its production. Boston, Massachusetts, and Paramount Studios in Los Angeles, California, served as the two primary filming locations. Boston provided settings for exterior sequences, like the famous Bull & Finch pub that Cheers, providing a distinctive backdrop to the show for viewers who had visited or lived in the area. It also allowed writers to use local landmarks and references that viewers could easily recognize as part of the story. Surrounding areas of interest included Fenway Park, a nearby college campus, and historic Beacon Hill. For all interior scenes, Paramount Studios in Los Angeles gave the show a unique look and feel separate from other comedy shows aired at the time. Many classic moments came to life at the studios, including Norm's entrance through swinging doors and Sam's jukebox soliloquies. A trip to visit locations used for filming Cheers would be worthwhile for fans of this classic sitcom as they could experience firsthand some of the places mentioned throughout the show's 11 seasons, along with historical attractions such as Harvard University, Freedom Trail, USS Constitution Museum, Chinatown, Bunker Hill Monument, and Quincy Market.
At the bar scene in Cheers
Cheers, 84 Beacon St, Boston, MA 02108, United States
As Gary (Robert Desiderio) engages in banter at Cheers, he entices numerous customers to abandon the bar and accompany him to the Old Towne Tavern, where he plans to showcase a championship boxing match on a spacious television screen. Cheers is more than just a TV show; it is a Boston icon. For fans of the classic sitcom, visiting the actual Cheers bar at 84 Beacon St. is a must-do. But even if you have never seen an episode, the bar is still worth a visit. Located in a historic building in the heart of Boston, the Cheers bar has a cozy, welcoming feel that will make you want to stay awhile. You will get immersed in Boston history and memorabilia, including photos of local sports legends and old-time Boston bands. Whether you are a local or a tourist, Cheers is a beloved spot that embodies the welcoming spirit of Beantown. Public transportation offers various convenient options to reach 84 Beacon St, Boston. Depending on your starting point, take the Green Line to Arlington Station or the Red Line to Charles/MGH Station. From either of these stations, a brief stroll along Beacon Street will lead you directly to your destination.
Uncover Boston Filming Locations
Frasier and Lilith renovating the home scene in Cheers
14 Chestnut St, Boston, MA 02108, USA
Frasier (Kelsey Grammer) and Lilith (Bebe Neuwirth) have embarked on a home renovation project, enlisting Norm (George Wendt) to handle the painting and hiring a snobbish interior decorator for the other aspects. However, when they realize the decorator does not meet their expectations, Norm offers his expertise, impressing the Cranes with his advice. Chestnut Street in Boston is a charming avenue that transports visitors back in time. Rows of elegant and stately brick townhouses, dating back to the early 19th century, line up the historic street. These homes stand as a testament to the rich architectural heritage and provide a glimpse into the lives of well-to-do residents of past centuries. From the north, take I-93 S towards Boston and exit 26 towards Storrow Drive. Follow signs for Fenway/Kenmore, merge onto Storrow Drive, then toward Kenmore Square, and join Beacon St. Take a right onto Chestnut St., and voila!
Frasier and Lilith renovating the home scene in Cheers
Paramount Studios, 5555 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90038, United States
After being honored with an award for her writing, Diane (Shelley Long) makes her way back to Boston, only to discover that her life is not quite as idyllic as it seems. Woody (Woody Harrelson) manages to secure a job opportunity for Norm (George Wendt), while Cliff (John Ratzenberger) receives a well-deserved promotion. Meanwhile, Rebecca (Kirstie Alley) eagerly anticipates her forthcoming nuptials with Don (Tom Berenger). Amidst these developments, the entire gang contemplates about the true meaning of life. In an iconic scene from Cheers, filmed at Paramount Studios in Hollywood, the final moments came to life on Stage 25. This episode was recorded in front of a live studio audience, adding to the electric atmosphere. Additionally, the Paramount backlot featured a giant pool, which unexpectedly features in a Cheers scene, captivating fans. Navigating your way to 5555 Melrose Ave, in the heart of the bustling midtown, does not have to be a headache-inducing experience. The address is easily accessible by car or public transportation. Hop on the La Brea bus line for a stress-free ride, or take advantage of ride-sharing options available in the area.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Cheers is an iconic American TV series set in the cozy Boston bar of the same name. The show ran for 11 seasons and focused on the lives of its regulars as they shared experiences while drinking or working at the bar. Boston, Massachusetts, and Paramount Studios in Los Angeles, California, provided the majority of the settings for the show. Fans of the show will forever remember it as a beloved example of classic American sitcoms, thanks to its memorable characters and lighthearted humor. Cheers was known for its catchy theme song and well-written scripts, which kept viewers coming back season after season to see how their favorite characters were faring at their local bar "where everybody knows your name."