For anyone asking who is Ted Danson married to, the answer is one that continues to warm Hollywood hearts — the acclaimed actor has been married to Mary Steenburgen since October 7, 1995. Their partnership has become one of the most admired and lasting relationships in the entertainment world, surviving the pressures of fame while flourishing in love, respect, and shared purpose. Nearly three decades later, Ted and Mary remain a picture of devotion, laughter, and deep companionship.
A Love Story Born on Set
The relationship between Ted Danson and Mary Steenburgen began in 1993 on the set of the film Pontiac Moon. Cast as husband and wife, the two actors quickly discovered that their on-screen chemistry was matched by a genuine off-screen connection. Both had experienced major life changes before meeting — Danson had recently gone through a publicized divorce, and Steenburgen was focusing on raising her children after her first marriage ended.
Despite their initial hesitation about new relationships, they found themselves drawn together by shared humor, empathy, and creative energy. The friendship blossomed naturally, evolving into romance not long after filming ended. By 1995, they decided to marry, beginning what would become one of Hollywood’s most enduring unions.
Their wedding took place in Martha’s Vineyard, surrounded by family and a few close friends. It marked the blending of two families — Steenburgen’s children from her previous marriage to actor Malcolm McDowell and Danson’s daughters from his marriage to producer Cassandra Coates. The ceremony was described by those who attended as heartfelt and deeply personal, reflecting the couple’s down-to-earth nature.
Who Is Mary Steenburgen?
Mary Steenburgen is an award-winning actress, singer, and songwriter, known for her versatility and warmth on screen. Born February 8, 1953, in Newport, Arkansas, she began her acting career in the 1970s and quickly became one of the most respected talents of her generation.
She won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her performance in Melvin and Howard (1980), and went on to star in beloved films such as Back to the Future Part III, Parenthood, Philadelphia, and Elf. Her range has allowed her to seamlessly move between comedy, drama, and musical storytelling.
In addition to acting, Steenburgen has built a second career in songwriting. After experiencing a minor health scare in 2007, she began hearing melodies in her head — a phenomenon that led her to start writing music. Since then, she has written hundreds of songs, many of which have been featured in film and television productions. Her creative spirit and artistic drive are central to her identity and her long, fulfilling marriage.
Ted Danson: A Career Spanning Decades
Ted Danson, born December 29, 1947, in San Diego, California, has enjoyed one of the most remarkable careers in American television. He first captured national attention as Sam Malone on the iconic NBC sitcom Cheers (1982–1993). His portrayal of the charming but imperfect bartender made him a cultural phenomenon, earning him two Emmy Awards and two Golden Globes.
After Cheers, Danson continued to show his versatility with starring roles in Becker, Damages, CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, and the hit philosophical comedy The Good Place. His later work earned renewed critical praise, especially for his portrayal of “Michael,” a well-meaning but mischievous architect of the afterlife.
Even in his late seventies, Danson remains active in Hollywood. His performances continue to captivate audiences with the same intelligence and warmth that have defined his career. Throughout it all, his marriage to Steenburgen has provided stability and inspiration.
Building a Life Together
After their wedding, Ted Danson and Mary Steenburgen settled into a life that balanced Hollywood with a sense of normalcy. They split their time between Los Angeles and Santa Fe, New Mexico, where they enjoy a slower pace away from constant attention. Their home in Santa Fe serves as a creative retreat where Steenburgen writes music and Danson pursues his environmental work.
The couple’s shared love for art, nature, and social causes has played a major role in their bond. They are both known for their deep compassion, often lending their voices to humanitarian and environmental campaigns. Danson, a long-time ocean conservation advocate, co-founded the American Oceans Campaign (now part of Oceana), while Steenburgen supports arts education and women’s empowerment initiatives.
Their connection extends beyond shared values — they have an undeniable sense of humor that keeps their relationship grounded. Danson often jokes that laughter is their “glue,” while Steenburgen has said that her husband “makes me laugh every single day, even when I don’t want to.”
Their Family and Private Life
Ted Danson and Mary Steenburgen are devoted parents and grandparents. Together, they have four children between them from previous marriages: Steenburgen’s daughter Lilly and son Charlie McDowell, and Danson’s daughters Kate and Alexis. The family remains close-knit, often celebrating holidays and milestones together away from the public eye.
Charlie McDowell, Mary’s son, has followed in his parents’ creative footsteps as a film director and screenwriter. He is married to actress Lily Collins, daughter of musician Phil Collins, adding another artistic connection to the family’s legacy.
Both Ted and Mary cherish family time and prioritize it above fame. Friends describe them as “deeply normal” despite their celebrity — enjoying cooking, hiking, and quiet nights at home over Hollywood parties. Their ability to keep their relationship and family life private has contributed significantly to the longevity of their marriage.
How They Keep Their Marriage Strong
Nearly 30 years into their marriage, Ted Danson and Mary Steenburgen continue to credit communication, mutual admiration, and laughter as the keys to their lasting love. Both have said that the foundation of their relationship is friendship — one that never stops growing.
They also make a point to support each other’s work. When one is filming, the other often visits set or offers encouragement. During long separations, they stay in constant contact. Their shared passion for storytelling keeps them connected, whether they’re collaborating creatively or simply talking about their projects at home.
Danson once said in an interview that he never takes their relationship for granted, describing Mary as “the most beautiful, kind, and creative soul I’ve ever known.” Steenburgen has echoed that sentiment, often referring to Ted as her best friend and greatest love.
Shared Work and Onscreen Appearances
While both have their own careers, Ted and Mary occasionally work together. They’ve appeared in guest roles on shows like Curb Your Enthusiasm and The Good Place, delighting fans with their natural chemistry. Their real-life connection adds an authenticity to their scenes that audiences find heartwarming.
Beyond acting, the couple often collaborates in charitable efforts. They’ve supported numerous causes together, from environmental sustainability to social justice and healthcare. In 2023, they attended several fundraising events for clean water initiatives and ocean preservation — causes particularly close to Danson’s heart.
Their shared mission to do good in the world has only deepened their respect for each other, transforming their marriage into a partnership that reaches beyond personal happiness to meaningful impact.
Looking Back at Their Previous Relationships
Before finding each other, both Ted Danson and Mary Steenburgen experienced the ups and downs of previous marriages. Danson’s first marriage, to college sweetheart Randall Gosch, ended in 1975. His second marriage, to producer Cassandra Coates, lasted from 1977 to 1993. They shared two daughters but faced tragedy early on when Coates suffered complications during childbirth, a traumatic experience that left a lasting impact on both.
Steenburgen, meanwhile, was married to British actor Malcolm McDowell from 1980 to 1990. They shared a strong creative connection and two children before parting ways amicably. These earlier experiences gave both actors a deeper understanding of what it takes to sustain love and family, lessons that have helped them maintain a strong and resilient marriage.
A Partnership Beyond Hollywood
Though their careers have made them household names, Danson and Steenburgen’s life together extends far beyond Hollywood. They have built a reputation for being generous, approachable, and authentic — qualities that have endeared them to colleagues and fans alike.
Their activism is also a major part of their shared identity. Danson’s environmental advocacy began decades ago, long before sustainability became a global focus. Steenburgen, in turn, has lent her voice to numerous humanitarian causes, using her songwriting and acting to raise awareness about social and environmental issues.
Together, they embody the idea that celebrity can be used as a platform for positive change. They are not just a Hollywood couple — they are partners in purpose.
Celebrating Nearly 30 Years of Marriage
In October 2025, Ted Danson and Mary Steenburgen celebrated their 30th wedding anniversary, marking three decades of shared laughter, challenges, and triumphs. Friends say their secret lies in treating every day as an opportunity to fall in love again — a sentiment reflected in the way they still hold hands on red carpets and speak about each other with genuine admiration.
Unlike many celebrity relationships, theirs has grown stronger with time. They remain deeply supportive of one another’s creative and personal journeys, constantly finding joy in small moments. Steenburgen once said that being married to Danson “feels like living with the most loyal and funny best friend in the world.”
Ted and Mary in 2025
As of late 2025, Ted Danson continues to appear in select television and film projects, balancing his acting career with his advocacy for ocean conservation. Mary Steenburgen remains active in both acting and songwriting, contributing original music to new projects while taking on selective roles that challenge her creatively.
The couple continues to live between California and New Mexico, enjoying the serenity of the desert and the vibrancy of the film industry when duty calls. They have become role models for both their professional peers and fans, showing that love, patience, and humor can truly withstand the test of time.
Ted Danson and Mary Steenburgen’s love story proves that real relationships can thrive even under the spotlight. What do you think keeps long marriages strong in Hollywood? Share your thoughts below and join the conversation.