Surprising Behind-the-Scenes Stories from the Set of Cheers

Before Ted Danson stepped into Sam Malone’s perfectly rolled sleeves, Ed O’Neill auditioned for the role. Long before Married… with Children made him a household name, O’Neill threw his hat in the ring to play the ex–ballplayer-turned-bartender at the center of Cheers.

It’s a fascinating what-if. O’Neill’s gruffer, more sardonic vibe would’ve given Sam a totally different energy. Ultimately, Danson’s charm and smooth delivery won out, but imagining O’Neill behind the bar is one of those fun alternate-universe sitcom scenarios.