Inspired by a conversation on BS with Bill Simmons a couple weeks ago, we’ve decided to introduce a new regular feature to our Xiing Wars. It’s called Cast It. On Cast It, we’ll name a tv show from decades past and propose that it should be re-made today. Then, with your help, we’ll cast its main characters with the actors and actresses of today. Ready?

I’ve decided to start where Simmons began, with perhaps the greatest sitcom of all time, Cheers. On the Simmons podcast, Simmons and company recommend Vince Vaughn for the lead role of Sam Malone. I can’t think of anyone better. He’d be just endearing,  selfish, and hilarious enough behind that bar that I don’t think we’d miss Ted Danson for a second.

They also propose Cedric the Entertainer for the role of Norm, and I think that’s a good fit. But their proposal for Rhea Perlman’s Carla leaves something to be desired. Their pick is Rosie Perez. I don’t like it, honestly. Rosie is a little old and a little played. I think Wanda Sykes would be a thousand times better. She can do deadpan like Carla could, and she can bring the sass, whereas Rosie can only do the sass.

I’ve had some trouble casting Diane. No currently known actresses seem to fit Shelly Long’s combination of naivete and obnoxiousness. Violet Bickerstaff suggested Jane Krakowski. I think that’s the best idea I’ve heard yet:

The only problem with this one, which Violet also pointed out, is that if Jane Krakowski took the role on our imaginary show, she’d have to leave 30 Rock, and that would be a seriously tragic loss for TV.

And how about Dr. Frasier Crane? Neil Patrick Harris, maybe?

Help me out folks. Which characters did I miss? Which characters did I fail on?  Cast it!