Ted Danson's Gratitude for Meeting His Wife Later in Life

This year, Ted Danson counts himself fortunate for the timing of meeting his partner, Mary Steenburgen, until later stages of his life.

In a conversation with People released on Thursday, the actor from "The Good Place" shared that their bond could have failed had they crossed paths earlier.

"I can confidently say that it wouldn't have worked," expressed Danson, who is 76, in his interview with People. "Honestly, I was not finished developing emotionally until right before I met Mary."

In the year leading to his introduction to Steenburgen, Danson had embarked on a journey of personal growth.

"Roughly a year before meeting her, I set a goal to evolve into a more emotionally mature and sincere individual," Danson shared. "It was a challenging endeavor, and without it, Mary might not have noticed me. So, indeed, we were better off not meeting sooner."

Their initial meeting occurred in 1983 during Danson's audition for the role of her character's husband in "Cross Creek." It wasn't until ten years later they reconnected while filming "Pontiac Moon" in 1993, eventually marrying by 1995. Each brought two children from their previous marriages into their lives together.

Statistics from the 1980s reveal that American men typically married at 25, with women marrying at 22. These ages have increased in recent times to 30 for men and 28 for women according to recent U.S. Census data.

Mutual Support as a Key Element

According to Danson, their enduring relationship is partly due to their mutual support for one another.

"There are moments when I am overwhelmed with insecurities and self-criticism, a common occurrence," he noted. "At these times, Mary gently encourages me to move forward, helping me to confront life's forthcoming challenges."

Previously, Dr. Lindsay C. Gibson, a clinical psychologist, told Business Insider that partners showing emotional maturity demonstrate attentive listening, empathize well, and manage their emotions effectively.

She also emphasized that such relational dynamics should feel effortless.

"A desire for smooth, harmonious relationships characterizes them," Dr. Gibson explained. "They are considerate, refrain from making impulsive comments, and are sensitive to how actions impact others."

At the time of reporting, Danson's representative had not responded to Business Insider’s request for comment outside standard working hours.