Frasier and Lilith to reunite in 'Fame'

LOS ANGELES, Dec. 1 (UPI) -- Megan Mullally, Kelsey Grammer and Bebe Neuwirth have signed on to play faculty in the upcoming remake of the New York-set film "Fame," producers said.

Mullally is best known for her work on TV's "Will & Grace."

Grammer and Neuwirth played married psychiatrists Frasier and Lilith Crane in the sit-com "Cheers."

Debbie Allen, who starred as dance teacher Lydia Grant in the 1980 original, as well as in the subsequent series of the same name, has also joined the cast of the remake as "Principal Simms," Lakeshore Entertainment and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures said Monday. Stage and film actor Charles S. Dutton has signed up for a role, as well.

"This dynamic group of actors all have esteemed backgrounds in the performing arts; they will give 'Fame' the authenticity and energy it deserves," producer Tom Rosenberg, chairman and CEO of Lakeshore Entertainment, said in a statement.

Like the first movie and series, the remake is set at the prestigious New York City High School of Performing Arts. The new film is to be directed by Kevin Tancharoen.

"This picture is a celebration, a testament to people pursuing their dreams, so we set out to find talented actors who could both convincingly instruct on screen and also inspire audiences," MGM Chairman Mary Parent said.

The movie is scheduled to open in theaters Sept. 25.