You might not expect it from someone who spent over a decade at a bar, but John Ratzenberger, the beloved Cheers star, has led a life filled with extraordinary adventures. "I've had countless amazing experiences all over the globe," the former carpenter told Closer. "I was part of the crew that constructed the stage at Woodstock. Then, I visited London with only five bucks in my pocket, planning to stay a week, and ended up living there for a decade."
During that time, John toured Europe as part of a successful comedy duo and secured roles in blockbuster films like The Empire Strikes Back. Eventually, he became the iconic know-it-all postman, Cliff Clavin, in the long-running sitcom Cheers, which aired from 1982 to 1993. "You're actually getting paid handsomely to sit at a bar and tell jokes," said John, now 71. "If that isn't the best job in the world, then I don't know what is."
John's voice has also brought beloved characters to life in Pixar films such as Toy Story, Cars, and The Incredibles. Now, living in Connecticut with his wife of nearly six years, Julie, 52, John is dedicated to helping craftsmen like himself. He joined the US Department of Labor's Task Force on Apprenticeship and supports the Made in America movement for labor workers.
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We caught up with the funny star to learn about his thoughts on being a dad to his son, James, 31, and daughter, Nina, 29 (from his former wife Georgia Stiny), "Papa" to three grandkids, and his many adventures. Scroll down to read our exclusive Q&A with John!
So, what’s keeping you busy these days, John?
I’m co-starring in a film with Kevin Sorbo called East Texas Oil, a true story about con men who traveled through Oklahoma and Texas in the 1930s, swindling money from widows. It’s a fascinating project, and I’m thrilled to be a part of it.
You’ve always been passionate about supporting labor workers. What drives that passion?
I realized that many shop classes have been canceled across the country. When I worked on my Travel Channel show, Made in America, from 2004 to 2008, highlighting manufacturing, I learned that factories struggle to find skilled workers who can build and fix things. If we lose those skills, we risk losing our cultural identity. It’s crucial to support and train the next generation of craftsmen.
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Cheers is a cultural phenomenon. How did you land the role of Cliff?
A mutual friend suggested, “They’re casting for a sitcom set in a bar in New England, Boston. You’re from there?” I replied, “Yeah, I am!” By the time I moved to LA, I’d already appeared in close to 30 films, but I’d never auditioned in my life. I got those roles through casting directors spotting me on stage in England. The system works differently there.
Wait… how did you manage that without ever auditioning?
In England, I gained recognition by performing on stage. The process is distinct from the US. When I walked into the audition room, some producer asked, “What are you looking for?” I joked, “A chair!” They sternly replied, “You’re not here to chat — you’re here to audition.”
In England, it’s common to chat with the director. I knew I’d failed the audition because I lacked formal acting training or auditioning experience, despite having extensive live performance experience. On my way out, I said, “Do you have a bar know-it-all? Every bar in New England has one.” I improvised my version of that character, aiming to make them laugh long enough to leave with my dignity intact. Two days later, they called, wanting to try the character for seven episodes. Eleven years later, I was still there.
That’s incredible! Were you ever worried about being typecast?
I figured it was inevitable. I could discover the cure for cancer, and people would still talk about Cliff. As long as my kids recognize me as Dad, I don’t care.
Well, you’ve shattered expectations with all your Pixar characters. They must be a blast.
I always requested my recording sessions to be scheduled before or after Don Rickles — I adored hearing his stories from the Frank Sinatra era. One valuable lesson I learned from him was to cherish every moment of your time here.
You appeared on Dancing With the Stars. How was that experience?
Someone dropped out because they couldn’t physically handle it. They told me I had two days to rehearse, including a half-day for costume fitting. I asked, “How long did everyone else have?” They said, “Three weeks.” I thought, This is a win-win. Either way, they’d say, “He only had a day and a half!”
How do you continue to challenge yourself these days?
Resisting a piece of pie — now that’s a challenge! For me, the most significant challenge is striving to be a good dad to my incredible children. That’s the most crucial role any of us have. Thankfully, they’re doing well, and now I have grandchildren I can spoil.
