The Heartwarming Love Story of Mary Steenburgen and Ted Danson: A Hollywood Marriage Built to Last
Who Is Mary Steenburgen Married To?
Mary Steenburgen, an Academy Award-winning actress, has been married to actor Ted Danson since 1995. Their marriage is a rare gem in Hollywood, a testament to enduring love and commitment. The couple, both actors with extensive careers in film and television, first crossed paths professionally before eventually finding romance. Their story is one of connection, timing, and the ability to grow together.
The Beginnings: How Mary Steenburgen and Ted Danson Met
Steenburgen and Danson first met in 1983 while auditioning for the film Cross Creek. However, it wasn’t until a decade later that they reunited on the set of Pontiac Moon, both at very different points in their lives. Danson had just finalized his divorce from Casey Coates after a highly publicized relationship with Whoopi Goldberg, while Steenburgen had recently divorced from actor Malcolm McDowell.
Despite both swearing off relationships, a serendipitous canoe trip in Mendocino, California, during the filming of Pontiac Moon, brought them closer. They returned from that trip smitten, and their friendship blossomed into romance.
The Timeline of Their Marriage
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| First Meeting (Cross Creek Audition) | 1983 |
| Reconnection on Pontiac Moon | 1993 |
| Ted Danson’s Proposal (Steenburgen’s Birthday) | February 8, 1995 |
| Wedding at Martha’s Vineyard | October 7, 1995 |
| Hollywood Walk of Fame Celebration | December 16, 2009 |
Ted Danson’s Thoughtful Proposal
On February 8, 1995, Ted Danson flew to Houston, where Steenburgen was filming Powder, to propose on her birthday. His month-long preparation led to a heartfelt proposal that was impossible for Steenburgen to refuse. Danson shared in an interview, “I couldn’t imagine life without her.” This gesture solidified their partnership, leading to one of Hollywood’s longest-lasting marriages.
The Star-Studded Wedding
Their wedding on October 7, 1995, in Martha’s Vineyard was a star-studded affair attended by then-President Bill Clinton and First Lady Hillary Clinton. The family-centric ceremony included their children, with Steenburgen’s son, Charlie, acting as the ring bearer, and Danson’s daughter, Alexis, walking down the aisle as the flower girl (People Magazine). Their children played integral roles in the celebration, blending their two families.
Collaborations in Hollywood: Working Together
Ted Danson and Mary Steenburgen’s chemistry transcends off-screen. The couple has worked together on various projects, including the late ’90s miniseries Gulliver’s Travels and the 2004 romantic comedy It Must Be Love. In both cases, they portrayed married couples, reflecting their real-life connection. In an interview with PEOPLE, Danson stated, “Working with Mary is like coming home every day. It’s comforting and creatively satisfying.”
Public Declarations of Love
Throughout the years, both Danson and Steenburgen have publicly expressed their love and admiration for each other. In 2018, Steenburgen shared with PEOPLE that she would “sign up for 100 more lifetimes” with Danson, emphasizing their deep connection. Danson echoed this sentiment in a 2021 interview, stating, “I want as long as possible with her.” Their love story continues to inspire Hollywood and beyond.
What Keeps Their Marriage Strong?
Their relationship success comes down to constant communication and mutual admiration. Steenburgen often credits Danson’s daily affirmations for helping maintain their bond. “He tells me every single day that I’m beautiful,” Steenburgen revealed in an interview with Good Housekeeping. This simple, consistent gesture fosters closeness and appreciation.
The Power of Meditation
Shortly after their marriage, Danson and Steenburgen began practicing meditation together. This shared practice, which they still maintain, helps them stay grounded and present. Danson explained in an interview with Hollywood Reporter, “Meditation allows us to be more present with each other, to focus on love instead of fear.” This practice continues to play a crucial role in their relationship.
Family Life and Blended Families
Steenburgen and Danson are proud of their blended family. Steenburgen has two children, Lilly and Charlie, from her marriage to Malcolm McDowell, while Danson has two daughters, Kate and Alexis, from his marriage to Casey Coates. Their children embraced their new family dynamic, and they often appear together at public events like Steenburgen’s Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony in 2009.
Celebrating Milestones Together
The couple has celebrated significant milestones, including their son Charlie’s wedding to actress Lily Collins in 2021. Such family moments are cherished, with Steenburgen sharing on Instagram, “I couldn’t be prouder of the family we’ve built together.” Their family-oriented life keeps them grounded, further strengthening their bond.
Frequently Asked Questions
How did Ted Danson and Mary Steenburgen meet?
They first met in 1983 while auditioning for Cross Creek, but their romantic relationship began in 1993 while filming Pontiac Moon.
When did Ted Danson propose to Mary Steenburgen?
Ted Danson proposed to Steenburgen on her birthday, February 8, 1995, after a month of preparation.
Where did Ted Danson and Mary Steenburgen get married?
The couple married on October 7, 1995, in Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts.
What is the secret to Ted Danson and Mary Steenburgen’s successful marriage?
The couple attributes their successful marriage to constant communication, mutual admiration, and a shared meditation practice that helps them stay connected and present with each other.
References:
people.com/article/ted-danson-mary-steenburgen-relationship-timeline
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_Steenburgen
hollywoodvinemag.com/mary-steenburgen-husband
