Ted Danson is one of Hollywood’s most recognizable and enduring talents. From his iconic role as Sam Malone in Cheers to recent hits like The Good Place, Danson has spent over four decades shaping American television. Beyond acting, he is admired for his activism, humanitarian work, and long-lasting marriage to Mary Steenburgen. This biography breaks down his life, career, relationships, controversies, and where he stands today.
Ted Danson Biography
Born Edward Bridge Danson III on December 29, 1947, in San Diego, California, Ted grew up in Flagstaff, Arizona. He attended Stanford University before transferring to Carnegie Mellon University, where he graduated with a degree in drama. His early years were spent doing commercials and stage productions until he landed his breakthrough role in the early 1980s.
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Career
Ted Danson’s career exploded in 1982 when he was cast as Sam Malone in the NBC sitcom Cheers. The role made him a global household name and earned him two Emmy Awards. After Cheers, he continued a successful run with television hits, including:
- Becker
- Damages
- CSI: Crime Scene Investigation
- Fargo
- The Good Place
- Mr. Mayor
Danson is known not just for comedy but also for strong dramatic work. Alongside acting, he is a vocal ocean conservation advocate and serves on the board of Oceana.
Ted Danson Movies
Though best known for television, Ted Danson has appeared in several successful films such as:
- Three Men and a Baby (1987)
- Three Men and a Little Lady (1990)
- Body Heat (1981)
- Creepshow (1982)
- Saving Private Ryan (1998)
- Made in America (1993)
- Hearts Beat Loud (2018)
His work spans comedy, drama, horror, and family films.
Ted Danson Net Worth
As of 2025, Ted Danson’s estimated net worth is around $80 million, accumulated through his long-running TV roles, film appearances, production credits, and brand partnerships.
Family
Ted Danson was born to Jessica MacMaster and Edward Bridge Danson Jr., an archaeologist and museum director. He has two daughters:
- Kate Danson (with Cassandra Coates)
- Alexis Danson (adopted during his marriage with Coates)
Danson has emphasized that fatherhood remains one of the most meaningful parts of his life.
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Ted Danson and Cassandra Coates
In 1977, Ted married Cassandra “Casey” Coates, a talented interior designer. Their marriage lasted over a decade and faced significant challenges, including Coates’ debilitating stroke shortly after the birth of their daughter. Danson stood by her through recovery, but their marriage eventually ended in 1993.
Ted Danson and Whoopi Goldberg
Ted Danson’s relationship with Whoopi Goldberg remains one of the most talked-about chapters of his life. The two met while filming Made in America and began a highly publicized romance. Their relationship sparked controversy, most notably due to a roasting event where Danson appeared in blackface as part of a comedic bit, which received strong backlash. The couple broke up in late 1993.
Ted Danson and Mary Steenburgen
Ted Danson married actress Mary Steenburgen in 1995, and the two have been inseparable ever since. Their marriage is regarded as one of Hollywood’s strongest. They frequently collaborate on film and TV projects and are passionate about activism and philanthropy. Danson often speaks of Steenburgen as his greatest “gift” in life.
Controversies
Ted Danson has largely maintained a positive public image, but he faced one major controversy in 1993 for appearing in blackface during a Friars Club roast. Although defenders claimed it was part of a comedic sketch he and Goldberg agreed on, the incident remains a notable point in his public history. Danson later expressed regret, calling it a “misjudgment.”
Ted Danson Age
He was born on December 29, 1947, making him 77 years old in 2025.
Ted Danson Now
Today, Ted Danson continues acting while dedicating significant time to ocean conservation and environmental activism. He appears in select film and TV roles, supports Oceana’s campaigns, and lives a grounded, family-centered life with Mary Steenburgen. He remains one of Hollywood’s most respected veterans.
Conclusion
Ted Danson’s legacy extends far beyond Cheers. He has reinvented himself across generations, maintained relevance in a rapidly changing industry, and built a strong personal and philanthropic life. From family challenges to public controversies to career triumphs, his journey reflects resilience, growth, and enduring talent. With decades of work behind him and meaningful advocacy ahead, Ted Danson continues to stand as a true Hollywood icon.
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