Celebrating the King of Quirky: Ted Danson's Birthday Then & Now Photos from Cheers & Beyond

Ted Danson, the charismatic actor and comedian, was born on December 29, 1947. To celebrate his birthday, we've compiled a collection of then and now photos of the beloved star, showcasing his journey from his early days in television to his iconic role in the hit sitcom "Cheers" and beyond. From his rugged good looks to his bushy eyebrows, Ted Danson has been a staple in the entertainment industry for decades, leaving an indelible mark on audiences everywhere.

As one of the most beloved actors of our time, Ted Danson has had a storied career that spans over five decades. With his unique blend of wit, charm, and comedic timing, he has captivated audiences on screen and off. From his early days as a struggling actor to his iconic role as Sam Malone in the hit sitcom "Cheers," Ted Danson has proven himself to be a talented and versatile performer.

Throughout his career, Ted Danson has appeared in a wide range of films and television shows, showcasing his impressive range as an actor. He has played everything from rugged drunks to charming love interests, solidifying his reputation as one of the most talented actors of our time. With his undeniable charm and charisma, Ted Danson has become a household name, synonymous with good humor and effortless charm.

Early Life & Career

From Virginia to Broadway

Ted Danson was born on December 29, 1947, in San Francisco, California, to a family of athletes. His father, Henry William Danson, was a naval officer, and his mother, Dorothy Sidell, was a teacher. Growing up in Virginia, Danson was an athletic child, excelling in sports such as football and tennis.

Danson's early interest in acting led him to attend the Northside School of the Performing Arts in San Francisco. He later moved to New York City to pursue a career in acting, attending the City College of New York and the Actors Studio.

Early Breakthroughs

Ted Danson's early breakthrough came in the 1970s, when he appeared in a string of off-Broadway productions and made his Broadway debut in 1972. He gained recognition for his role in the musical "The Great White Hope," earning a Tony Award nomination for Best Actor.

Television Debut

Danson's television debut came in 1976, when he appeared in the popular sitcom "3 People and a Baby." He went on to appear in a number of other television shows throughout the 1970s and 1980s, including "Night Shift" and "The Masters."

Cheers: The Iconic Role that cemented his Legacy

From Muddling through to Making History

Ted Danson's iconic role as Sam Malone in the hit sitcom "Cheers" cemented his status as a household name. The show, which aired from 1982 to 1993, followed the lives of a group of lovable misfits who worked at a Boston bar.

Danson's portrayal of the charming and womanizing bartender Sam Malone earned him widespread critical acclaim and a loyal fan base. His performance in the show's opening episode, "Give Me a Ring Sometime," set the tone for the rest of the series and established him as a rising star in the entertainment industry.

Cheers: The Show that Redefined TV Comedy

"Cheers" was more than just a sitcom – it was a cultural phenomenon that redefined the way we watched television. The show's witty banter, memorable characters, and iconic catchphrases (such as "Where Everybody Knows Your Name") became ingrained in popular culture.

Danson's performance in "Cheers" was widely praised, earning him numerous awards and nominations, including four Emmy nominations for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series.

Beyond Cheers: Ted Danson's Most Notable Roles

From Comedy to Drama

After "Cheers" ended its run in 1993, Ted Danson went on to appear in a wide range of films and television shows. He played everything from comedic roles in movies like "Something Wild" and "Nothing in Common" to dramatic roles in shows like "Conduct Unbecoming" and "Becker."

Some of Danson's most notable roles include:

• Becker (1998-2004): Danson played the titular role of Dr. Larry Booker, a wise-cracking and confident surgeon, in this popular sitcom.
• Still Standing (2002-2006): Danson starred as Jimmy Breslin, a loving but exasperated father, in this family-friendly sitcom.
• Bones (2009-2011): Danson played the role of Stephen Walker, a suspect in a murder investigation, in this popular crime drama.

Danson's Early Film Career

Ted Danson's early film career was marked by a string of independent films and comedy roles. He appeared in movies like "Nothing in Common" and "It's Garry Shandling's Show" before landing the lead role in the comedy hit "Nothing in Common."

Danson's early film career was also marked by his collaboration with director Mike Nichols, with whom he worked on films like "Nothing in Common" and "Cactus Flower."

Ted Danson: The Man Behind the Character

From Humble Beginnings to Hollywood Superstar

Ted Danson's career has been marked by both highs and lows. From his early struggles as a struggling actor to his current status as a Hollywood superstar, Danson has proven himself to be a talented and resilient performer.

Danson has been married twice, first to actress Rhea Perlman from 1980 to 2000, and then to actress Mary