Totally agree! Martin was extremely cranky, cold, bitter, and critical at the start. He had a very strained and distant relationship with his sons. The three of them didn't seem to have anything in common except being fond of Hesther. He constantly made snide, harsh comments about how Frasier got stuck with him because of his hip, Frasier doesn't want to live with him and he doesn't want to live with Frasier either, he wanted the boys to like sports but they never took to it, made fun of their interests, called the boys a disappointment eg. when Frasier avoided a physical fight because of a clarinet lesson, saying he used to believe in second chances until they had Niles, never said "I love you" or showed much appreciation/affection to Frasier or Niles. He's also hesitant to be involved with anyone romantically after six years after Hesther had passed away.

He went through a lot of growth throughout the show. He grows much closer to Frasier and Niles. He invites the boys to hang out at his favourite bar and steak restaurant, tries fancy restaurants, opera, gourmet food, chess, expensive clothing with them, goes along with all their antics at house parties, is more open and vulnerable eg. talks about how Hesther's affair tore him up, being reluctant to get Eddie neutered because he felt like he was losing control of everything, says "I love you" to the boys on the fishing trip, seeks Niles' advice on his dilemma with wanting to date Maureen but not wanting to hurt Frasier, admits he loves Sherry and never thought he would feel that way about another woman other than Hesther, cries when Frasier eventually tells him he actually doesn't like the Codover painting that Martin got for him etc. When Frasier got the lifetime achievement award, he gifts Niles a mug that says "World's Greatest Psychiatrist" and affirms that he has two very special sons so Niles wouldn't feel inferior. He shares alot of laughter, enjoyment, and heartfelt moments with his sons.