"Two days later I got a call that they wanted to try out the character for seven episodes. Eleven years and 22 Emmys later, Cliff was still sitting at that bar"
About this Quote
John Ratzenberger's quote reviews his unexpected and transformative journey as an actor through his representation of the character Cliff Clavin on the iconic tv show "Cheers". The quote is a succinct story of serendipity and durability in a profession that started with a modest chance but blossomed into a long-term role, showcasing the unforeseeable nature of the entertainment industry.
Initially, Ratzenberger describes receiving a telephone call welcoming him to audition for a character, implying that it was a standard and possibly routine incident in the life of an actor. However, what sticks out is the modest start of this opportunity--"check out the character for 7 episodes". This expression captures the tentative and maybe non-committal nature of offers stars often come across. There's no guarantee of longevity; it's simply a trial. Yet, this particular opportunity turned into something far more considerable.
The next line, "Eleven years and 22 Emmys later", is a powerful testimony to the program's success and individual accomplishment for Ratzenberger. The reference of "11 years" stresses the unanticipated durability of his role, a remarkable task for any star in the competitive television landscape. Furthermore, the recommendation to "22 Emmys" highlights the critical recognition and distinctions the show received, underscoring its cultural impact and Ratzenberger's part in it.
Finally, when he refers to "Cliff ... still sitting at that bar", it stimulates the enduring nature of his character's existence on "Cheers". Cliff Clavin became an enduring figure in the program, emblematic of its core ensemble. The bar setting-- a main area in "Cheers"-- served as a background for many stories and interactions, and Cliff was an essential part of that environment. Ratzenberger's reflection highlights how a relatively small opportunity can evolve into a defining and commemorated chapter in a star's career, leaving a long lasting tradition both personally and within the wider cultural sphere.
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