Kelsey Grammer Reflects on His Complex Relationship with Los Angeles
Kelsey Grammer recently shared his mixed feelings about living in Los Angeles during an interview. The 70-year-old actor, known for his role in “Turbulence,” has called LA home since the early ’80s, and he reminisced about his initial impressions of the city.
“Honestly, from the moment I arrived, I had my doubts,” he chuckled.
He added, “But here I am, four decades later. It’s like this strange love-hate relationship with the place. I find it tough, honestly.”
Grammer expressed his efforts to remain positive despite the challenges. “I try to view each day as a gift and lift my spirits. Though LA can be a bit of a test, it feels as if Nincompoop is at the helm sometimes. You know, that’s life.”
He articulated a desire to cultivate a positive environment in LA, saying, “I hope we can carve out a spot here, nurture our little space, and keep it beautiful. We certainly have a family that embodies that sentiment. I’m genuinely happy.”
Originally from St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, Grammer was raised primarily in New Jersey and Florida.
He began his acting journey in New York before relocating to LA for the groundbreaking role of psychiatrist Dr. Frasier Crane on “Cheers.”
Grammer has not shied away from voicing his criticisms of the city’s political leadership in the past. Following devastating fires in LA earlier this year, he noted a political shift, attributing it to the government’s lack of effective fire prevention measures.
“I’ve always leaned conservative politically, so this shift… I’d call it corruption,” he remarked. “Someone really dropped the ball, and I think there’s going to be some repercussions, but you never quite know what will happen in California.”
He described a scene at his house filled with “refugees” from the recent fires that affected areas like Pacific Palisades and Altadena.
“I feel deeply saddened by the human loss, the lives impacted,” he said. “It’s something I’ve faced before when I lost everything, and it’s just an unfortunate reality sometimes.”
Grammer acknowledged the presence of many who are eager to support fire victims but also recognized why some individuals might be considering leaving LA. “For many, it could mean seeking a fresh start elsewhere. Yet, I know many wish to stay. I’ll do my part to assist however I can,” he stated.
Currently, Grammer stars in the upcoming survival thriller “Turbulence,” where he portrays a hot air balloon operator named Harry.
The film’s synopsis indicates a turn of events when a mysterious third passenger disrupts a romantic hot air balloon ride.
Grammer shared his reasoning for taking the role, stating, “My gut reaction was that I could embody this character. Yet, I haven’t quite played someone like him before, even though he has hints of Captain Tom Dodge from ‘Down Periscope.’”
He elaborated, “This character understands the winds and the connection between the environment and his role on the balloon. He’s a competent leader. It’s intriguing to explore how things don’t play out as expected for him. He’s a rugged, approachable character you feel secure around—something I enjoyed exploring.”
“Turbulence” is set for release in theaters and on digital platforms on December 12th.
