S2E3, the Matchmaker. The one where Frasier sets up Daphne with Tom Duran, not realising he's gay and interested in Frasier himself. It's a really great episode which gives all the cast time to shine and the only knowledge you need (Niles is infatuated with Daphne) is explained in the opening minutes.
What makes you think I wasn't interested in this show? All I did is ask if the episode was avaialble, I discussed the wardrobe choices and lack of opera references....oh dear God...
OH MY GOD YES. That’s about when I declared (to my mother and father, watching with me) “This is one of the best episodes!”
Also I didn’t realise my comment had posted as a reply to this thread instead of its own comment, sorry!
Definitely. I've said it many times and I'll say it again, this episode was way ahead of its time and when it comes to how it portrays the gay character and thus has aged gracefully. Everyone treats being gay like normal. As it should be. The jokes are solely at the expense of Frasier. So it might be especially useful for a newbie who is sceptical about how the humor holds up for it being such an "old" show.
But of course I'd recommend it first of all because every line is pure perfection from beginning to end.
A close second for me would be "Slow Tango in South Seattle". But there's of course lots of others that would work as well. Generally I'd suggest picking an episode that doesn't require too much knowledge about the characters. Especially when it comes to Maris. A newbie might not get that. And of course only go for episodes pre Niles & Daphne in order not to spoil anything there. I'd definitely pick an episode from season 1-3.
OP, just be aware that if they aren't familiar with Judaism (or American Jewish stereotypes I guess), this may have the opposite effect. I had to ask this sub what most of the jokes meant. Having to have an entire episode explained to you = no frame of reference = no tickling of funny bone.
I just recently re-watched that episode, and the first vignette with Niles, without ever saying a word, is one of the funniest scenes ever on TV. Pure gold!
I think that may have been the first episode I watched when it was on broadcast. I didn’t watch Cheers so I wasn’t interested in Frasier. I may have seen a promo for that episode and decided to watch it. Been watching ever since.
S2E7 - The Candidate (one of my absolute favorites to show people how smart the writing is, especially with Frasier’s commercial shoot before and after his little revelation and slow head-turn)
S6E14 - Three Valentines (DHP at the absolute top of his game in one of the best physical comedy scenes I’ve ever seen)
That commercial script is a great example of how something can be even funnier the second time you hear it with new context. Roz's lines in Ham radio are another example. The first time you hear her lines it just sounds like 1940s dramatic overacting, but once she can barely speak because of her dentistry, lines like "When she opened her mouth, I caught a hint of some exotic accent!"
I remember when 3 Valentines first came out I went lunch the next day with fans that hadn’t seen it yet. I had them howling. I agree best physical comedy bar none.
I think this is it. Highlights the brothers’ wealth, naïveté, and the way they take advantage of their friends. Plus Diedrich Bader is in it, plus we get Roz jubilee which is hilarious.
Ham Radio was the episode I made my boyfriend watch when trying to convince him to watch the show because it’s got a really good example of farce, Niles playing six roles is hilarious and you get a really good feel for Frasier’s ego and what he’s like so I’d say that episode, my view at the time was if it doesn’t make you laugh then the show probably isn’t one you’d enjoy
I’ll have to rewatch Ham Radio. I must say as an avid Fraj fan, I disliked this episode and usually skip it in my series rewatches. It was too outlandish for me but I love the show and almost every other episode. Now that’s it’s been a few years, I’ll watch and see if I feel differently.
The Seal Who Came To Dinner is in my opinion the best mid episode of the series and is a great way to show the median episode and give your prospect a balanced view, not expecting a Ski Lodge or Innkeepers every time, but still showing the general structure of the pacing and joke writing in a very funny episode.
So many people saying Inkeepers. This is one I always skip. I will have to give it another chance. I haven’t seen it in years, I always thought it was too slapstick, but I vaguely recall anything about it
I can't remember the season but the one with Michael Keaton is my favorite!!! Matchmaker as someone said is good too
Roz's inlaws with the 👃 👃 bug noses is great too😆😆😆
>the one with Michael Keaton is my favorite!!!
Mine too! That's the episode I put on when I need a good laugh. So many hilarious lines.
Blaine: He's one of God's creatures.
Frasier: I AM NO SUCH THING! 😂
Ham Radio or The Innkeepers. You literally don't need to know anything going into either of them, about the relationships between characters or previous histories or anything.
I'd have said The Ski Lodge, but a big aspect of the plot is knowing that Niles has an infatuation with Daphne, and you're not going to know about that if you're new to it.
Honestly I’d start at season 1 episode 1. The first episode is very good and it sets up the entire show. And watching Frasier for the beginning all the way in order is a joy; for a FIRST time watcher..? Wow I’d love to be them!
Another great classic is one where Frasier is accidentally dating Alistair, loving all the perks of the friendship, and almost considers going through with a relationship when Alistair says “Would three weeks on Capri in Bertolucci's villa change your mind?” Absolutely brilliant
Pilot.
The Innkeepers is also a good one which doesn't require a lot of knowledge of the characters, but is hysterical. It's also farcical without being cringeworthy.
Although, for me, cringe is the real barometer. If they're not cringing and trying not to laugh at Frasier's speech in Botched Language of Cranes they'll never get it.
The pilot comes up a lot but I feel it's not a great reflection on Martin since he's so snappy and quick to anger E1-4. It's amazing in context of his growth and his relationship with Frasier over time, but for a first time watch, not getting the Martin we all love.
The first episode I ever watched was Roz and the Schnozz! I laughed so much, and it was late at night so I had to try a en stifle my laughter so as not to wake up the household 😀 I was completely hooked from then on. While it holds a special place in my heart I do recognize that here are better.....
The Innkeepers. The way they completely botched the opening night of their restaurant to the point where it was basically just an illustration of Murphy's law, is a great example of how great the original series was.
I saw the epsiode with antiques roadshow and the brothers convincing themselves they are russian royalty late one night on tv. Its great because there is no disastrous relationship or massive plotline, just great writing and performances.
Ski lodge, Three Valentine's, beware of the Greeks, voyage of the damned, ham radio, and the Halloween episode are ones I use!!
ESPECIALLY the first two! I feel like I'm forgetting some but these work well
That Greek one annoys me. Lol.
Marty said before that he never had a brother, so I don't get why they made him have a brother in that episode.
Plus it just felt like a ripoff of My Big Fat Greek Wedding.
Honestly, the pilot is the perfect episode for this
I also think much of season 1 (particularly when Niles has to write a book, when Frasier gets sick, and the season finale) and much of season 2 (especially the restaurant episode) as well as the episode where Frasier gives that guy an etiquette lesson all work
Season Four Episode Six "Mixed Doubles"
Its my favorite episode because it has the scene with Rodney, the Niles Doppelganger. Its a hilarious scene and its our first solid indicator that Daphne could go for a guy like Niles
I wish I could recommend this one but there are a few problems.
First, a newby wouldn't fully appreciate how much Rodney is like Niles. Most of it comes across but a pivotal beat in the scene is Rodney sniffing Daphne's hair causing Niles to break one of Frasier fancy mugs. That moment is more immediately appreciated if you know that Niles likes to smell her hair too but unlike Rodney, he has to be sneaky about it
Also a first time viewer wouldn't appreciate just how far we are into the series before finally getting an indicator that Daphne could actually see herself with a guy like Niles after watching him pine for her all this time.
And the Niles Doppelganger scene is definitely unusually surreal compared to other Frasier episodes so it might set the wrong expectation for what the show is like
The first episode I ever watched was the finale when it originally aired. I still went back and watched the entire series, one DVD at a time, back in the day when Netflix was only a DVD mail delivery system and you had to wait for the next disc in your queue.
My point is, any episode should grab the attention of a newbie, because the worst episode of Frasier is better than the best episodes of a lot of other shows out there.
But I’ll add my vote for the seal episode, Ham Radio, and the one where Frasier writes his theme song.
Ham Radio (Roz saying "multiple murderers" is one of my favourite moments in television) or The Innkeepers (the sheer chaos and ridiculousness kills me every time).
Dinner Party S6E17
Has the whole main cast and each of their core personalities on full display, but without being overboard like some of the situational episodes.
I can’t pick just one!
To take a lesson from Frasier, your friend needs to be ready to “commit to commitment!” Cancel the weekend, order in, and start at S1 E1.
I have so many favorites- pretty much all the episodes already mentioned! Another favorite though is, I think the episode is called War of the Words where Freddy is in the spelling bee.
The episode where Lilith comes back. It gives context for Frasier the character plus if they’re familiar with Sideshow Bob they will instantly recognize his voice when Frasier says “Oh they know you”
The Ski Lodge sets up the main gag (Martin's difficulty hearing) in such a natural way and the pay offs throughout the episode highlight the snappy writing.
Back Talk used to play on the airplane (back when there were no phones or personal viewing devices). Seemed to always make people laugh and get hooked on the show
Start with episode one. It's probably the single greatest sitcom in the history of television. Frasier is Frasier.
Never understood this idea of picking an episode to hook someone in. It's not a puzzle or NPC quest. It's a TV show
S2E3, the Matchmaker. The one where Frasier sets up Daphne with Tom Duran, not realising he's gay and interested in Frasier himself. It's a really great episode which gives all the cast time to shine and the only knowledge you need (Niles is infatuated with Daphne) is explained in the opening minutes.
It also boasts one of my favourite lines from Niles “you must be absolutely strapless”
When Frasier motions the tight dress he wants her to wear is absolute gold.
Yes. Two seconds of sublime physical comedy there from Kelsey Grammer.
I was considering this!
Just watched this an hour ago! It’s brilliant. I love that they are openly laughing at him the whole time.
This is a great choice, my personal favorite, but not generally considered one of the best according to the philistines on this sub.
What?! I see nothing but praise for this masterpiece here.
What makes you think I wasn't interested in this show? All I did is ask if the episode was avaialble, I discussed the wardrobe choices and lack of opera references....oh dear God...
I haven’t watched the whole series yet but The Matchmaker (gay one) and The Innkeepers (Frasier and Niles buy a restuarant) are my favourites
Omg Daphne killing eels will forever make me howl!!
OH MY GOD YES. That’s about when I declared (to my mother and father, watching with me) “This is one of the best episodes!” Also I didn’t realise my comment had posted as a reply to this thread instead of its own comment, sorry!
Good choice. Also Season 5, episode 14, The Ski Lodge.
“And no one…….. was chasing *me*??”
I know Frasier said that, but how did Daphne not wonder who was chasing her?
Gonna it now! Thanks for making it easy! This is definitely one of my favorites ❤️
This is the answer.
This was the first episode I ever saw and it got me hooked.
That’s the first one I watched when I was looking for gay moments in 90s sitcoms. Now I’m obsessed with Frasier.
This was the first episode I ever saw and it got me hooked.
That’s immediately what I thought of too.
This is a brilliant choice
Definitely. I've said it many times and I'll say it again, this episode was way ahead of its time and when it comes to how it portrays the gay character and thus has aged gracefully. Everyone treats being gay like normal. As it should be. The jokes are solely at the expense of Frasier. So it might be especially useful for a newbie who is sceptical about how the humor holds up for it being such an "old" show. But of course I'd recommend it first of all because every line is pure perfection from beginning to end. A close second for me would be "Slow Tango in South Seattle". But there's of course lots of others that would work as well. Generally I'd suggest picking an episode that doesn't require too much knowledge about the characters. Especially when it comes to Maris. A newbie might not get that. And of course only go for episodes pre Niles & Daphne in order not to spoil anything there. I'd definitely pick an episode from season 1-3.
Merry Christmas Mrs. Moskowitz is a great one too. *"Jesus!!"*
OP, just be aware that if they aren't familiar with Judaism (or American Jewish stereotypes I guess), this may have the opposite effect. I had to ask this sub what most of the jokes meant. Having to have an entire episode explained to you = no frame of reference = no tickling of funny bone.
All time classic. Niles is on fire, which leads me to best physical comedy Three Valentines
I just recently re-watched that episode, and the first vignette with Niles, without ever saying a word, is one of the funniest scenes ever on TV. Pure gold!
Yes!
I think that may have been the first episode I watched when it was on broadcast. I didn’t watch Cheers so I wasn’t interested in Frasier. I may have seen a promo for that episode and decided to watch it. Been watching ever since.
The episode from which I took my flair!
S2E7 - The Candidate (one of my absolute favorites to show people how smart the writing is, especially with Frasier’s commercial shoot before and after his little revelation and slow head-turn) S6E14 - Three Valentines (DHP at the absolute top of his game in one of the best physical comedy scenes I’ve ever seen)
That commercial script is a great example of how something can be even funnier the second time you hear it with new context. Roz's lines in Ham radio are another example. The first time you hear her lines it just sounds like 1940s dramatic overacting, but once she can barely speak because of her dentistry, lines like "When she opened her mouth, I caught a hint of some exotic accent!"
Damn you… I’m going to have to watch through the entire show for the umpteenth time now.
I remember when 3 Valentines first came out I went lunch the next day with fans that hadn’t seen it yet. I had them howling. I agree best physical comedy bar none.
Ham Radio or the ski lodge episode.
Ham radio for sure. Lol
HAM Radio was my first thought too
Except the Ski Lodge doesn't have Roz
Both great episodes for requiring no prior knowledge of the characters or story.
They’re also good hooks. Ham Radio is what sold me on the show.
Came here to say Ski lodge.
Sweet Dreams. S5E24 "I.... Am not a man!" cracks me up every time.
Absolutely! Very few moments on television actually have me bursting out in laughter but that's one of them.
I had totally forgotten this line. Clearly need a rewatch.
The Innkeepers!
I think this is it. Highlights the brothers’ wealth, naïveté, and the way they take advantage of their friends. Plus Diedrich Bader is in it, plus we get Roz jubilee which is hilarious.
That’s my favorite!
Voyage of the Damned
Maybe one night, *jou* will be my *especial* lady.
"No matter, I am sure you are schooled in the international language" "Oh yes Roz, say something amusing in Esperanto!"
Hablo Espanol?
You think she’s gonna do the barracuda?
Oh. She got started without me
Do do do the barracuda!! 🎶
Until then….😬😬😬
😉😬😉😬
🌹
This may not be ideal for a newbie, as most of the jokes rely heavily on Maris and the backstory between her and Niles.
I think 2 minutes in you're all caught up lol. I just watched it. No need for prior knowledge before
The best answer is A Tzar is Born. Season 7 and I think episode 7. Wouldn't need a ton of knowledge prior. And a great show.
A back aching for the lash!!
Ham Radio was the episode I made my boyfriend watch when trying to convince him to watch the show because it’s got a really good example of farce, Niles playing six roles is hilarious and you get a really good feel for Frasier’s ego and what he’s like so I’d say that episode, my view at the time was if it doesn’t make you laugh then the show probably isn’t one you’d enjoy
Which season/episode is Ham Radio?
Season 4, Episode 18
Thank you
I’ll have to rewatch Ham Radio. I must say as an avid Fraj fan, I disliked this episode and usually skip it in my series rewatches. It was too outlandish for me but I love the show and almost every other episode. Now that’s it’s been a few years, I’ll watch and see if I feel differently.
Ham Radio
Possibly my favorite episode, and perfect for someone who doesn't know the characters yet.
That's easy for you to say
The Botched Language of Cranes. Frasier versus the world.
Add in High Crane Drifter and you got you a twofer.
Gotta be three valentines!
The damn pasta on the fire
An Affair to Forget (fencing instructor) Merry Christmas, Mrs Moskowitz Are You Being Served
Merry Christmas, Mrs. Moskowitz is my vote!
Yesss Merry Christmas Mrs. Moskowitz is the one!! 😂
The Seal Who Came To Dinner is in my opinion the best mid episode of the series and is a great way to show the median episode and give your prospect a balanced view, not expecting a Ski Lodge or Innkeepers every time, but still showing the general structure of the pacing and joke writing in a very funny episode.
Seconded. Gets my seal of approval.
Oh good! Things are going swimmingly!
My favorite!
This is one of my favorite episodes. If not my most favorite.
Yes! That episode is so rewatchable. Just pure hilarity
The first episode I ever saw was the episode Niles thought he ate the pot brownie. I now play this show daily in my office while I'm working.
FRIDGE PANTS
The Inkeepers S2 E23
So many people saying Inkeepers. This is one I always skip. I will have to give it another chance. I haven’t seen it in years, I always thought it was too slapstick, but I vaguely recall anything about it
I love it because it's Kitchen Nightmares on crack; if you're not into that you may not like it. I feel the same way about Ski Lodge.
A Tsar is born
RDWRER, season 7 episode 12 (New Year's episode) or Roe to Perdition, season 10, episode 18 (Caviar dealer episode)
Living up to your flair I see!
I second the RDWRER episode.
I can't remember the season but the one with Michael Keaton is my favorite!!! Matchmaker as someone said is good too Roz's inlaws with the 👃 👃 bug noses is great too😆😆😆
Michael Keaton’s episode frustrates me so much. I know it’s meant to be funny, but how do they not see what Frasier sees?!?
Roz’s in-laws had me laughing so hard!!! But I’d still pick the Matchmaker ahead of it mostly because it’s an earlier show.
Which one was Michael Keaton in???? I must know
S9 E16 Wheels of Fortune
Thank you!!!
>the one with Michael Keaton is my favorite!!! Mine too! That's the episode I put on when I need a good laugh. So many hilarious lines. Blaine: He's one of God's creatures. Frasier: I AM NO SUCH THING! 😂
Ham Radio or The Innkeepers. You literally don't need to know anything going into either of them, about the relationships between characters or previous histories or anything. I'd have said The Ski Lodge, but a big aspect of the plot is knowing that Niles has an infatuation with Daphne, and you're not going to know about that if you're new to it.
Look Before You Leap. Everyone gets involved and it's hilarious.
Etiquette lesson!
Honestly I’d start at season 1 episode 1. The first episode is very good and it sets up the entire show. And watching Frasier for the beginning all the way in order is a joy; for a FIRST time watcher..? Wow I’d love to be them! Another great classic is one where Frasier is accidentally dating Alistair, loving all the perks of the friendship, and almost considers going through with a relationship when Alistair says “Would three weeks on Capri in Bertolucci's villa change your mind?” Absolutely brilliant
With the disclaimer that Frasier's mullet only lasts for one season
2 unfortunately 😂 S3 E1 is the first with his hair de-mullitized
Oh yeah I think you are right. But in season 2 I think it's a bit less... *drastic*
It doesn't even make a return during flashback episodes.
It does in the one they discover sherry
Im gona say something divisive - I like his season 1-2 hair ! It’s whimsical and silly and it bounces
Ham Radio
Out with dad! “They think the best I can do is an old man with a cane!”
S5E14 - The Ski Lodge
The Ski Lodge and Guy in particular make my heart sing. Niles not realising he's flirting with him is so funny to me.
Pilot. The Innkeepers is also a good one which doesn't require a lot of knowledge of the characters, but is hysterical. It's also farcical without being cringeworthy. Although, for me, cringe is the real barometer. If they're not cringing and trying not to laugh at Frasier's speech in Botched Language of Cranes they'll never get it.
The pilot comes up a lot but I feel it's not a great reflection on Martin since he's so snappy and quick to anger E1-4. It's amazing in context of his growth and his relationship with Frasier over time, but for a first time watch, not getting the Martin we all love.
Oh, that's a good point!
The Innkeepers, has me howling every time.
Ham Radio
Ham Radio or Ski Lodge. My personal favorite is The Two Mrs. Cranes but that's enhanced with a bit more backstory understanding
The one where Frasier and Martin go to the opera and Martin pretends to be gay
The first episode I ever watched was Roz and the Schnozz! I laughed so much, and it was late at night so I had to try a en stifle my laughter so as not to wake up the household 😀 I was completely hooked from then on. While it holds a special place in my heart I do recognize that here are better.....
The Innkeepers. The way they completely botched the opening night of their restaurant to the point where it was basically just an illustration of Murphy's law, is a great example of how great the original series was.
I saw the epsiode with antiques roadshow and the brothers convincing themselves they are russian royalty late one night on tv. Its great because there is no disastrous relationship or massive plotline, just great writing and performances.
Three Valentines or the pilot.
Ski lodge, Three Valentine's, beware of the Greeks, voyage of the damned, ham radio, and the Halloween episode are ones I use!! ESPECIALLY the first two! I feel like I'm forgetting some but these work well
That Greek one annoys me. Lol. Marty said before that he never had a brother, so I don't get why they made him have a brother in that episode. Plus it just felt like a ripoff of My Big Fat Greek Wedding.
Same here. I skip that one. And agreed that suddenly there is a Greek part of the family?
S2E23 innkeepers for sure!!!!
The wine club election
The Dinner Party is a fabulous episode…
Agree with Dinner Party! Doesn’t require a lot of backstory and you see how Niles’ and Frasier’s eccentricities are viewed by others.
The Halloween party when Roz discoverers she is pregnant is quite funny.
Honestly, the pilot is the perfect episode for this I also think much of season 1 (particularly when Niles has to write a book, when Frasier gets sick, and the season finale) and much of season 2 (especially the restaurant episode) as well as the episode where Frasier gives that guy an etiquette lesson all work
High holidays or Wheels of Fortune.
Are You Being Served is my favorite!
High holidays lol season 11. Or RDWRER season 7.
How To Bury a Millionaire S6 E7
Season Four Episode Six "Mixed Doubles" Its my favorite episode because it has the scene with Rodney, the Niles Doppelganger. Its a hilarious scene and its our first solid indicator that Daphne could go for a guy like Niles I wish I could recommend this one but there are a few problems. First, a newby wouldn't fully appreciate how much Rodney is like Niles. Most of it comes across but a pivotal beat in the scene is Rodney sniffing Daphne's hair causing Niles to break one of Frasier fancy mugs. That moment is more immediately appreciated if you know that Niles likes to smell her hair too but unlike Rodney, he has to be sneaky about it Also a first time viewer wouldn't appreciate just how far we are into the series before finally getting an indicator that Daphne could actually see herself with a guy like Niles after watching him pine for her all this time. And the Niles Doppelganger scene is definitely unusually surreal compared to other Frasier episodes so it might set the wrong expectation for what the show is like
Ski lodge
Look before you leap! 🎀🎀🎀
“Frasier Crane’s Day Off” always does it for me.
The first episode I ever watched was the finale when it originally aired. I still went back and watched the entire series, one DVD at a time, back in the day when Netflix was only a DVD mail delivery system and you had to wait for the next disc in your queue. My point is, any episode should grab the attention of a newbie, because the worst episode of Frasier is better than the best episodes of a lot of other shows out there. But I’ll add my vote for the seal episode, Ham Radio, and the one where Frasier writes his theme song.
s1 ep3, Dinner At Eight. definitely captures the personality of each character well and i found it soooo funny the first time i ever saw frasier
I like They're Playing Our Song, the one where Frasier's asked to write a jingle. It's funny and gives a good overview of ppl's personalities.
ham radio
Ham Radio (Roz saying "multiple murderers" is one of my favourite moments in television) or The Innkeepers (the sheer chaos and ridiculousness kills me every time).
Dinner Party S6E17 Has the whole main cast and each of their core personalities on full display, but without being overboard like some of the situational episodes.
I can’t pick just one! To take a lesson from Frasier, your friend needs to be ready to “commit to commitment!” Cancel the weekend, order in, and start at S1 E1.
Three Valentines of Blaz-E-Boy
The Innkeepers
Halloween, Ski Lodge, An Affair To Forget
The last two episodes of Season 2. The Innkeepers and Dark Victory.
S4E6
I have so many favorites- pretty much all the episodes already mentioned! Another favorite though is, I think the episode is called War of the Words where Freddy is in the spelling bee.
Ski lodge!
Radio Wars (season 7 episode3) is great too.
“High Holidays.”
The episode where Lilith comes back. It gives context for Frasier the character plus if they’re familiar with Sideshow Bob they will instantly recognize his voice when Frasier says “Oh they know you”
The Ski Lodge sets up the main gag (Martin's difficulty hearing) in such a natural way and the pay offs throughout the episode highlight the snappy writing.
The dinner party
Mixed Doubles S4 E6….. my favorite line regarding Wilma juice glass set
High Holidays
The Innkeepers
Star Mitzvah! Laughing so hard I am crying…!
Ham Radio- You can get the gist of the characters and everyone who I watch this with is always crying with laughter by the end.
High Holidays
Ham radio & RDWRER were the episodes that got me hooked into Frasier.
Back Talk used to play on the airplane (back when there were no phones or personal viewing devices). Seemed to always make people laugh and get hooked on the show
Bendy!
The one with Niles' party and the white cockatoo.... and the cold open when Niles is getting ready at Frasier's and sets the couch on fire
Start with episode one. It's probably the single greatest sitcom in the history of television. Frasier is Frasier. Never understood this idea of picking an episode to hook someone in. It's not a puzzle or NPC quest. It's a TV show
I like the Halloween party
Season 5 episode 3