What character did Fred Dryer later play on Cheers?

Fred Dryer later played Dave Richards on Cheers. Dave was an old friend of Sam Malone and a sports commentator, allowing Dryer to appear in a role connected to both the show’s sports background and Sam’s history.

Dryer appeared as Dave Richards in three episodes. His casting created a small piece of television trivia: the performer once considered for the central role of Sam did eventually appear in the series, but as a recurring guest character rather than as the bartender himself.

The character is easy to confuse with other Cheers visitors and rivals. Walter Gaines was associated with other storylines, Evan Drake was a corporate figure connected to the bar’s later years, and Robin Colcord was Rebecca Howe’s wealthy romantic interest. Dave Richards, by contrast, was defined primarily by his friendship with Sam and his work as a sportscaster.