Conversation so far:
What happened during season 8-9 of The Drew Carey Show?
Beginning in season 8, The Drew Carey Show rotated through 9 different opening sequences, each of which contained a new version of one of the show's three theme songs.
What were the themes of season 8-9 of The Drew Carey Show?
Each theme (Moon Over Parma, Five O'Clock World and Cleveland Rocks) was seen in three different segments, in new, wildly different arrangements.
What else did The Drew Carey Show do in Season 8?
The Drew Carey Show eventually went back to having just five main characters, akin to the first season, as Kate, Mr. Wick, and Steve were written out of the show.
Did the characters ever return to The Drew Carey Show?
Mr. Wick disappeared after three appearances until the Season 8 finale of the Drew Carey Show, wherein it is revealed he became a weatherman.

Question: Did the other characters stay with the show?
Self-contained rewrite: Did other characters stay with The Drew Carey Show?