Ted Danson—a name that resonates with fans around the globe as the charismatic bartender Sam Malone in Cheers, the quirky architect Michael in The Good Place, and even as investigator D.B. Russell on CSI.
Along with his countless incredible roles, there’s one question fans repeatedly ask about this beloved actor: how tall is Ted Danson? Why all the curiosity? Ted is known for his height, which accentuates his commanding and personable presence both on and off the screen.
This blog not only answers that popular question but also takes a closer look at Ted Danson’s illustrious career, captivating personal life, and lesser-known height-related anecdotes that make him one of Hollywood’s most memorable entertainers.
Who Is Ted Danson?
Early Life and Education
Born Edward Bridge Danson III on December 29, 1947, in San Diego, California, Ted Danson’s upbringing was far from ordinary. Raised near Flagstaff, Arizona, he had an early interest in sports, particularly basketball—perhaps sparked by his tall frame.
However, his path shifted when he discovered acting during his time at Stanford University. He later transferred to Carnegie Mellon University, where he graduated with a degree in Drama in 1972.
Career Highlights
Ted Danson is a Hollywood legend, having starred in numerous classic TV shows and films.
- Cheers (1982–1993): His breakthrough came as the endearingly flawed bartender, Sam Malone. Cheers became a part of television history, running for 11 years and earning Ted two Emmy Awards and two Golden Globes.
- Becker (1998–2004): Another fan-favorite role, Ted portrayed the grumpy doctor John Becker, showing his versatility as a comedic actor.
- CSI: From 2011 to 2016, Danson took on a more serious tone as investigator D.B. Russell, proving his talent in drama.
- The Good Place (2016–2020): Danson’s role as Michael, the mysterious architect of a heavenly afterlife, earned him a new generation of fans.
Brief Personal Life
Ted has been married to actress Mary Steenburgen since 1995—a Hollywood marriage that has stood the test of time. He also has two daughters, Kate and Alexis, from his previous marriage. Beyond acting, Ted is a dedicated environmental activist and co-author of Oceana, a book discussing the urgent need for ocean conservation.
How Tall Is Ted Danson?
Ted Danson’s Official Height
The official answer? Ted Danson is 6 feet 2 ½ inches tall (or approximately 189 cm). This places him well above average height, even in Hollywood. Ted’s tall, lean frame has become a trademark of his physical presence, often giving him a slight advantage when portraying confident and authoritative characters like Sam Malone or Michael.
Has His Height Changed Over Time?
It’s not uncommon for individuals to experience slight height reductions with age. Ted Danson, now in his 70s, was likely closer to 6 feet 2 ¾ inches (190 cm) during his younger years. This mild height loss may be attributed to natural aging and spinal compression.
Why Does Ted Sometimes Look Taller or Shorter?
Ted’s slim build and excellent posture often make him appear slightly taller on screen. For example, on Cheers, Sam Malone was occasionally referred to as being 6’3”. Comparisons with co-stars such as Tom Selleck (6’4”) during their time in Three Men and a Baby helped confirm Ted’s accurate height claims over the years.
Significantly, Ted also tends to tower over his shorter co-stars, which further amplifies his appearance as a “larger than life” actor.
Other Fun Facts About Ted Danson’s Height
- On-Screen Illusions: While Ted’s official height is 6’2 ½”, clever camerawork and his natural proportions sometimes make him seem closer to 6’3” to 6’4” on screen.
- Basketball Aspirations: Ted’s stature served him well during his early days as a high school basketball star, although he later traded his hoop dreams for a career in acting.
- Comparisons with Other Legends: Ted frequently stood out beside both shorter and taller co-stars in shows like Cheers and Becker. For instance, his height complemented the 6’4” frame of Tom Selleck but also accentuated his towering presence beside 5’1” Kristen Bell in The Good Place.
Beyond Height — Ted Danson’s Towering Charisma
Acting Style and Versatility
Danson’s physical height isn’t just a part of his appearance—it plays a vital role in shaping his characters. His ability to combine a towering frame with comedic timing made Sam Malone a favorite on Cheers. Similarly, the majestic Michael from The Good Place felt all the more whimsical because of Ted’s commanding stage presence.
Public Persona
Even outside of work, Ted Danson’s tall stature and signature white hair make him instantly recognizable. Fans admire not just his physical presence but also his down-to-earth aura and advocacy for environmental issues.
Ted Danson’s Height as Part of His Hollywood Legacy
At 6’2 ½”, Ted Danson is much more than just a “tall actor.” His height is one of many elements that contribute to his memorable performances and lasting impression on audiences. Whether charming us in sitcoms, thrilling us in dramas, or inspiring us with his activism, Ted Danson remains a towering figure in more ways than one.
What’s your favorite Ted Danson role? Share your thoughts in the comments below. For more insights on Hollywood legends, don’t forget to explore our other blog posts!
FAQs
Did Ted Danson Date Whoopi Goldberg?
Yes, Ted Danson and Whoopi Goldberg were briefly a couple in the early 1990s after co-starring in Made in America.
Does Ted Danson Have Children?
Yes, he has two daughters, Kate and Alexis Danson, from his second marriage. He is also a stepfather to Mary Steenburgen’s children, Lilly and Charlie.
What Is Ted Danson’s Ethnic Background?
Ted Danson’s ancestry comprises English, Scottish, and German roots.
Are Ted Danson and Kelsey Grammer Friends?
Yes, the actors share a warm friendship, having worked together on Cheers and its spin-off, Frasier.
