Kelsey Grammer supports co-star Toks Olagundoye through cancer battle during ‘Frasier’ revival

A personal call from Kelsey Grammer

Actor Toks Olagundoye recently shared a heartfelt story during an interview on “The Kelly Clarkson Show.” While working on the revival of ‘Frasier’, Olagundoye received unexpected news: a cancer diagnosis. This revelation came early in the production, just after she had filmed only three episodes. Unsure what the future held for her role, Olagundoye feared the worst—being let go from the show entirely.

But in a twist worthy of a screenwriter’s touch, her co-star and leading man, Kelsey Grammer, personally called her to provide reassurance. He promised that her role would remain secure despite her diagnosis and the necessary treatments. This call was not just professional courtesy; it showcased a deep bond that had formed among the cast.

“I’ve never had a TV family quite like the ‘Frasier’ cast—they’re really amazing human beings. To be around them was really nice,” Olagundoye confessed during the interview, reflecting on how the cast supported her through such a challenging period.

The diagnosis and battle ahead

Toks Olagundoye was diagnosed with stage 0 triple negative breast cancer, which had progressed to stage 1 by the time she was informed she needed surgery. At 46, she faced a daunting medical journey that included three surgeries and chemotherapy just weeks before production commenced. Midway through filming, Olagundoye underwent a double mastectomy.

Despite these overwhelming circumstances, her commitment to the show never wavered. She pushed forward not just out of professional duty, but because of the unwavering support from her colleagues.

“I said, listen, if you have to fire me, I’ve only been on three episodes so far, make me a guest star or whatever,” Olagundoye recounted, expressing her initial fear to the producers.

Though reassured by the show’s producers, the anxious anticipation of being notified by the network lingered. That worry intensified when she saw Grammer’s name appear on her phone screen. She expected the worst but was met with compassion.

“I see Kelsey’s calling [later], and I was like, yep, this is it, getting fired, right this second,” she continued. But instead, Grammer’s voice, full of emotion, conveyed nothing but support: “I know how actors think, I want to let you know this is your family, you’re not getting fired, we’re going to do whatever we need to do to make you feel comfortable,” he assured her.

Role and resonance

Olagundoye stars as Professor Olivia Finch, the chair of Harvard University’s psychology department, in the ‘Frasier’ revival series. The first season debuted on Paramount+ in October 2023, and the second season premiered in September 2024.

Her story stands as a testament to resilience and the power of familial bonds—even those formed in the make-believe world of television. Her experience highlights not only her personal strength but also the supportive environment fostered behind the scenes by her castmates.

A touching surprise

During her appearance on “The Kelly Clarkson Show”, Olagundoye received a touching surprise from her co-stars. The daytime host played a pre-recorded video message from Grammer himself:

“I’m really proud of you for being on this show and I salute your efforts to raise awareness and money for breast cancer. We’ve always loved you and loved being with you when you were going through your stint, and congratulations on coming out the other side,” Grammer said in the clip. “I’m deeply, personally grateful.”

Insights into the media industry

This isn’t just a story about individual triumph; it’s also about the collaborative spirit within the film and TV industry. Supporting a co-star through such a health crisis goes beyond the norms of workplace camaraderie. Grammer’s actions exemplify leadership and humanity in an industry often criticized for its cutthroat nature.

Behind every scene in series like Frasier lies a depth of human connection that often goes unnoticed by the public. Such stories enrich our understanding of the entertainment world, presenting it as one unified by more than scripts and cameras—it’s bound by the people who bring these stories to life.

For more updates on your favorite shows and the stories behind them, stay connected and share this inspiring narrative on social media. Your engagement helps celebrate these remarkable journeys.