Coach Ernie Pantusso, played with unparalleled warmth and gentle wisdom by Nicholas Colasanto, was a cornerstone of Cheers. His absence was keenly felt after his untimely passing. Coach’s last appearance on the show was in Season 3, Episode 22, titled “Cheerio, Mrs. Heep,” airing in May 1985.
The Final Curtain: “Cheerio, Mrs. Heep”
“Cheerio, Mrs. Heep” revolves around Sam Malone’s struggle with a demanding, overbearing woman named Mrs. Heep, played by the incomparable Doris Roberts. She’s driving Sam crazy with her constant critiques and controlling behavior. While the main plot focuses on Sam’s comical attempts to liberate himself from Mrs. Heep’s clutches, Coach is present throughout the episode, offering his usual quirky observations and supportive presence. He’s integral to the bar’s atmosphere and provides a counterpoint to the chaotic situation Sam finds himself in. There is nothing in the episode that suggests it would be Colasanto’s last; his performance is as endearing and reliable as always. The episode provides a bittersweet reminder of what the show lost with his passing. While Coach doesn’t have a major storyline in this episode, his presence reinforces the show’s heart and soul, making his subsequent absence all the more poignant.
Remembering Coach: The Show’s Reaction
After Nicholas Colasanto’s death in February 1985, the Cheers writers and producers faced the difficult task of addressing his absence in a respectful and meaningful way. Rather than simply writing Coach out or recasting the role, they chose to acknowledge Colasanto’s passing directly within the show’s narrative.
A Tribute Episode: “Coach’s Daughter”
The fourth season premiere, titled “Birth, Death, Love and Rice,” served as a tribute to Coach. The episode opens with the characters mourning his passing and struggling to cope with the loss. Sam Malone, particularly affected, feels a deep sense of guilt, wondering if he could have done more to help his friend. The episode introduced Woody Boyd (Woody Harrelson) as Coach’s pen pal who comes to Boston to take Coach’s place at the bar, a decision that allowed the show to move forward while honoring Colasanto’s memory. It’s a heartfelt and emotional episode that pays homage to the character and the actor who brought him to life. It showcased the importance of the Cheers family and their ability to support each other during difficult times.
Why Not Recast Coach?
The decision not to recast Coach was a deliberate one, reflecting the deep respect the cast and crew had for Nicholas Colasanto. Recasting the role felt disrespectful to his memory and would have been an impossible task, as no one could replicate his unique charm and comedic timing. Furthermore, the writers felt that introducing a new character would be a more effective way to move the show forward while still acknowledging the loss. Woody Boyd, with his innocence and naiveté, provided a different comedic dynamic that complemented the existing cast.
Frequently Asked Questions About Coach and His Departure from Cheers
Here are some frequently asked questions to further explore the legacy of Coach and Nicholas Colasanto’s contribution to Cheers:
FAQ 1: What was Nicholas Colasanto’s cause of death?
Nicholas Colasanto died of heart disease on February 12, 1985, at the age of 61. He had been struggling with his health for some time prior to his death, although it was not widely publicized.
FAQ 2: Did Nicholas Colasanto know he was dying while filming Cheers?
While he was struggling with his health, it’s unclear if Nicholas Colasanto knew the severity of his condition or if he expected his death to be imminent. He kept his declining health relatively private.
FAQ 3: How did the Cheers cast react to Nicholas Colasanto’s death?
The Cheers cast was deeply saddened by Nicholas Colasanto’s passing. They were a close-knit group, and his death had a profound impact on them. They often spoke of his warmth, kindness, and comedic talent, and his absence was keenly felt.
FAQ 4: Why did Nicholas Colasanto wear a hat on Cheers?
Nicholas Colasanto wore a hat on Cheers to conceal his balding head. It became a signature part of Coach’s look and contributed to his endearing and somewhat eccentric persona.
FAQ 5: Was Woody Harrelson intended to replace Coach from the beginning?
No. Woody Harrelson was cast after Colasanto’s death. The show’s producers and writers needed to fill the void left by his absence, and Woody’s character, Woody Boyd, was created to bring a new dynamic to the show while honoring Coach’s memory.
FAQ 6: Did Nicholas Colasanto win any awards for his role as Coach?
Nicholas Colasanto was nominated for three Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series for his role as Coach, but he did not win.
FAQ 7: What other roles did Nicholas Colasanto play besides Coach?
Before Cheers, Nicholas Colasanto had a long and varied career as an actor and director. He directed episodes of Hawaii Five-O, Columbo, and The Mary Tyler Moore Show. He also appeared in films such as Raging Bull and Family Plot.
FAQ 8: How did the writers handle Coach’s absence in the show’s opening credits?
The opening credits were updated to remove Nicholas Colasanto’s name and image after his death. The show continued to acknowledge his contributions through in-show tributes and mentions.
FAQ 9: What was the relationship between Coach and Sam Malone?
Coach and Sam Malone had a close, almost father-son relationship. Coach provided Sam with guidance, support, and a listening ear, often offering quirky but insightful advice. Their dynamic was a key element of the show’s heart and humor.
FAQ 10: Is “Cheerio, Mrs. Heep” available to stream online?
Yes, “Cheerio, Mrs. Heep,” along with all episodes of Cheers, is available to stream on various platforms, including Paramount+ and Amazon Prime Video.
FAQ 11: Did any other characters leave Cheers due to actor deaths?
While characters left the show for various reasons, Nicholas Colasanto was the only main cast member whose departure was directly due to the actor’s death during the show’s run.
FAQ 12: What is Nicholas Colasanto’s lasting legacy on Cheers?
Nicholas Colasanto’s legacy as Coach remains a significant part of Cheers‘ enduring appeal. He brought a unique blend of warmth, humor, and wisdom to the character, creating a memorable and beloved figure. His portrayal of Coach helped define the show’s heart and contributed to its success. Coach’s legacy lives on in the show’s reruns and continues to touch the hearts of viewers around the world. The character stands as a reminder of the importance of friendship, support, and finding humor in everyday life.