Ted Danson

At a Glance

• Ted Danson’s Infectious Vibe - ‘your vibe is, it is infectious, it does come through.’ This highlights how Ted Danson’s positive and engaging personality shines through in his performances and interactions.

• Importance of Writing - ‘it’s the writing. I mean, yeah, you can be really good and interesting. But an asshole can fuck up good writing.’ Ted emphasizes the critical role of good writing in the success of a show, underscoring that even the best actors cannot save poor scripts.

• Love for the Process - ‘I do love going to work. I do love actors. I do love writers. I do love the whole process.’ Ted expresses his deep passion for every aspect of filmmaking, which is key to his long-standing success.

• Tribute to Comedy Legends - ‘I got to shake hands and hug Mel Brooks. How fucking cool is that?’ This moment highlights Ted’s reverence for iconic figures in the comedy world, showing his humility and admiration for his peers.

• Reflection on ‘Cheers’ - ‘when you have something that has such great chemistry, and it really works, and the writing is really good, and the performers are really good…that is so fucking fun.’ This quote captures the magic of being part of a successful and harmonious production like ‘Cheers.’

• Post-‘Cheers’ Life - ‘I fucked up my life so publicly and so thoroughly that the actual passing of Cheers was, oh, it’s over?’ Ted shares a candid reflection on his personal challenges following the end of ‘Cheers,’ highlighting his vulnerability.

• Ted’s View on Acting at Different Ages - ‘I want to know what that’s like at every age. I want to keep acting and I’m 77 in a few months.’ Ted discusses his ongoing passion for acting and his desire to explore it as he ages, emphasizing his commitment to his craft.

• Humor from Sadness - ‘I do love humor that comes out of sadness. If you can find a way to laugh while acknowledging the sadnesses of life, that I am so happy when you get to do that.’ This reflects Ted’s appreciation for complex emotions in comedy, which resonates with his portrayal of nuanced characters.

• Physical Comedy in ‘Cheers’ - ’the funniest moment for me in TV history for me is this moment where Shelly Long…you see her arm come in and start to reach for the coat rack.’ This anecdote from a guest highlights the timeless humor found in ‘Cheers,’ showcasing the show’s impact on its audience.

These points collectively paint a picture of Ted Danson as a thoughtful, passionate actor who values the craft of acting, the importance of good writing, and the joy of making people laugh, all while navigating the complexities of life and career with humility and humor.

What to Do

• ‘Focus on the other person in acting’ - This helps to get out of one’s head and enhances the authenticity of the performance, making it less about demonstrating technique and more about genuine interaction.

• ‘Consider whether you want to work with the people who are auditioning you’ - It’s important to remember that an audition is not just about impressing others, but also about assessing if the work environment is right for you.

• ‘They want you to be good in auditions’ - Understanding that casting directors are eager to find the right person can relieve some pressure and help you perform with confidence.

• ‘Maintain a non-desperate attitude’ - Approaching auditions with a sense of ‘sexy indifference’ can make you appear more professional and less desperate, which is more appealing to potential employers.

• ‘Good luck with your projects’ - Wishing others well as you leave an audition can leave a positive impression, reinforcing a professional and courteous demeanor.

• ‘Work on yourself’ - Personal growth and self-improvement are crucial, not just for personal satisfaction but also for making oneself a better partner or colleague.

• ‘Be emotionally mature’ - Recognizing and admitting past mistakes and working towards emotional maturity can lead to healthier personal and professional relationships.

• ‘Find joy in the process’ - Whether it’s acting, auditioning, or teaching, finding aspects of the process that you enjoy can make challenging tasks more bearable and fulfilling.

What to Get

-Not Much Here

Summary

In this engaging podcast episode, the hosts and their guest, Ted Danson, delve into a lively and humorous discussion about Ted’s illustrious career in television, particularly highlighting his iconic role as Sam Malone in the beloved sitcom “Cheers.” The conversation kicks off with the hosts expressing their admiration for Ted, noting how his performances have been a significant part of their lives and have brought them immense joy through laughter.

Ted shares anecdotes from his early days, including his initial audition for “Cheers” and how he landed the role that would eventually define his career. He recounts the nervous excitement of reading the script for the first time and the subsequent auditions that solidified his place on the show. The hosts and Ted also reminisce about the unique moments on “Cheers,” such as the hilarious scene involving Shelly Long’s character, Diane Chambers, which Ted and the hosts agree is one of the funniest moments in TV history.

The discussion also veers into Ted’s experiences beyond “Cheers,” touching on his other projects and roles in both comedy and drama, showcasing his versatility as an actor. Ted candidly talks about the challenges and joys of acting across different genres and the evolution of his career over the years.

Throughout the episode, the hosts and Ted engage in a light-hearted banter, with Ted’s quick wit and charming anecdotes making for an entertaining listen. They discuss the importance of chemistry among cast members and how pivotal moments behind the scenes contributed to the success of the shows Ted has been part of.

Overall, the podcast episode offers a delightful peek into Ted Danson’s career and his perspective on acting, comedy, and the entertainment industry. It’s filled with engaging stories, laughter, and insights that not only entertain but also provide a deeper appreciation for one of television’s most enduring personalities.