Frasier to get the axe due to falling ratings

HIT comedy Frasier is to be axed because of high production costs and falling ratings in the US, it was reported yesterday.

The award-winning show about pompous psychiatrist Dr Frasier Crane will finish in America in May 2004 after completing its 11th series, according to Variety. NBC spends €3.4 million making each episode while also paying stars Kelsey Grammer and David Hyde Pierce seven-figure salaries.

Despite the expense, the show has suffered a slump in viewing figures during the latest series currently showing in the US.

Frasier boasts 21 Emmys, including a record five consecutive awards for Outstanding Comedy Series, a Peabody Award and two Golden Globes. Essex-born Jane Leeves plays dippy Daphne Moon in the long-running spin-off of hit Eighties comedy Cheers.

Grammer first appeared as Frasier in the bar-room sitcom in 1984.

NBC yesterday ended speculation that Friends will continue for another series by confirming that the next series will be the show's finale.