On the popular television show Cheers, the characters spent a lot of time at the bar, enjoying drinks and engaging in lively conversations. But did they actually serve real alcohol on set? The answer might surprise you.
In reality, the drinks served on Cheers were not real alcoholic beverages. Instead, the actors were given a substitute known as “near beer.” This near beer had an alcohol content of only 3.2 percent, significantly lower than regular beer. It was a way to ensure that the actors didn’t become intoxicated during filming and could perform their scenes accurately.
The near beer served on set was not only low in alcohol content but also had a pinch of salt added to it. This was done to create a foamy head on the mug, which looked more appealing under the hot studio lights. The salt helped maintain the foam and gave the appearance of a freshly poured beer.
While it may have looked like the actors were enjoying real beers on screen, they were actually drinking this near beer concoction. This substitution allowed them to maintain their sobriety and deliver their lines without any impairment. It also ensured that the show could be filmed efficiently and without any disruptions.
Having near beer on set also had practical benefits. Since the actors were spending long hours filming, it was important to keep them hydrated. The near beer served as a refreshing beverage, keeping the actors cool and comfortable under the bright lights and demanding shooting schedule.
This practice of using near beer is not uncommon in the entertainment industry. Many television shows and movies use non-alcoholic substitutes to create the illusion of alcoholic beverages. It helps maintain the safety of the actors and ensures that the filming process goes smoothly.
While it may seem disappointing to learn that the drinks on Cheers were not real, it’s important to remember that the show was primarily focused on the characters and their interactions rather than the actual consumption of alcohol. The use of near beer allowed the actors to fully embody their roles and bring the beloved characters of Cheers to life.
The drinks served on Cheers were not real alcoholic beverages but rather a substitute known as near beer. This allowed the actors to perform their scenes accurately without becoming intoxicated. The addition of a pinch of salt helped create a foamy head on the mug, making it look more appealing under the studio lights. While it may not have been real beer, the use of near beer allowed the actors to deliver their lines effectively and maintain their sobriety throughout the filming process.