Mary Steenburgen, Pt. 2 - Where Everybody Knows Your Name with Ted Danson and Woody Harrelson (sometimes)

Podcast Summary: "Mary Steenburgen, Pt. 2"

Episode Title: Mary Steenburgen, Pt. 2
Release Date: November 22, 2024
Hosts: Ted Danson, Woody Harrelson (occasionally)
Guests: Mary Steenburgen

Introduction

In the second part of his conversation with acclaimed actress Mary Steenburgen, Ted Danson delves deeper into Mary's illustrious career, her personal life, and the unique bond she shares with him. This episode uncovers behind-the-scenes stories from Mary's films, her journey into music, and the magical elements that define her life.

Mary Steenburgen's Early Career and "Time After Time"

Ted Danson kicks off the conversation by revisiting Mary's second film, "Time After Time" (1978), a pivotal moment in her career where she crossed paths with Malcolm McDowell. This film not only showcased Mary's acting prowess but also laid the foundation for her personal life.

Mary Steenburgen (02:34): "It was a really lovely movie and still kind of is in its own wonderful way."

Ted reminisces about his first impression of Mary during this film, highlighting the magnetic quality that drew him to her.

Ted Danson (03:22): "That was the first movie that I think I saw you and clocked you and went, oh. Oh my goodness. Yeah, it is an amazing movie."

Personal Life: Marriage to Malcolm McDowell

Mary shares heartfelt insights into her marriage with Malcolm McDowell, their children Lily and Charlie, and the enduring friendship they maintained post-divorce.

Mary Steenburgen (04:00): "Somehow Malcolm and I managed, even though we were both capable of being really immature, somehow we rose to our biggest selves and stayed friends."

Ted adds his admiration for Malcolm, emphasizing the mutual respect within their intertwined relationships.

Ted Danson (05:56): "He has been nothing but loving and kind and he's amazing."

Mary recounts the moment she informed Malcolm about her budding relationship with Ted, showcasing her thoughtful approach to preserving familial harmony.

Mary Steenburgen (05:33): "I decided to go tell him quite early on so he wouldn't hear it from somebody else."

Transition to Friendship and Romantic Relationship with Ted Danson

The conversation shifts to how Ted and Mary reconnected post-"Cheers," eventually leading to their romantic relationship and subsequent marriage. Their shared love for "Cheers" and mutual respect laid a strong foundation for their bond.

Mary narrates the first meeting that would eventually lead to their relationship, filled with humor and genuine admiration.

Mary Steenburgen (38:28): "My first thought of you as a man was, well, this is the most ridiculous creature I've ever met."

Ted Danson (38:41): "And from that moment on, folks, I had her."

Wedding and Blended Family

Ted and Mary discuss their wedding at Martha's Vineyard, blending their families and the challenges and joys that came with it. They highlight the importance of including their children in their vows, symbolizing the unity of their new family.

Ted Danson (46:46): "We made one for each of us in the family that when you put them together separately, they were beautifully. But when you put them together, it made this great pattern."

Mary emphasizes the strength and harmony within their blended family, celebrating the unique relationships among their children.

Mary Steenburgen (45:46): "Our two oldest daughters are each other's best friend."

Anecdotes from Iconic Films

"Melvin and Howard"

Mary recounts her experience working on "Melvin and Howard," detailing how she landed the role and her collaboration with director Jonathan Demme.

Mary Steenburgen (07:54): "He was the most magical director. He would listen to anybody that had an idea for the film."

She shares a memorable moment when Jonathan Demme dressed for her character's wedding scene, exemplifying his meticulous and thoughtful directing style.

Mary Steenburgen (08:08): "It's the only direction he had to give me that day."

"Parenthood"

Ted and Mary reminisce about their time working on "Parenthood," highlighting the camaraderie with co-stars like Jason Robards and Ron Howard.

Ted Danson (26:12): "Parenthood, my second time working with Jason Robards."

Mary describes the playful and relaxed atmosphere on set, particularly during the balloon scene.

Mary Steenburgen (25:58): "We were all in the same scene, and we were so obsessed with playing Murder and killing each other by winking at each other."

"Philadelphia"

Mary discusses her role in "Philadelphia," portraying a lawyer navigating the complexities of hiring Tom Hanks' character, set against the backdrop of the AIDS crisis.

Mary Steenburgen (30:05): "I play the lawyer who represents Jason Robards and the company that fires Tom Hanks."

She shares a poignant personal connection, mentioning a friend who inspired her portrayal of the character.

Mary Steenburgen (30:46): "A friend who had been my roommate in New York... he was dying of AIDS."

Musical Pursuits and Magical Aspects

Ted shifts the conversation to Mary's foray into music, exploring the magical qualities that influence her creative process. Mary elaborates on how a surgical experience unlocked her deep connection with music, leading to a successful publishing deal with Universal.

Mary Steenburgen (67:39): "I had a surgery on my arm... I continued to feel weird... obsessed relationship to music."

Ted admires Mary's ability to seamlessly integrate her acting and songwriting, highlighting her dedication and passion for both crafts.

Ted Danson (72:59): "You are some of our best friends."

Mary reflects on her collaborative efforts in Nashville, emphasizing the supportive environment that honed her songwriting skills.

Mary Steenburgen (72:23): "I had to learn fast how to do this... I was the least talented person in the room."

Family and Grandchildren

The hosts touch upon the joys of family life, particularly the influence of their grandchildren. Mary expresses profound gratitude for the relationships she shares with her stepdaughters and granddaughters.

Mary Steenburgen (75:26): "Our kids are amazing... our relationship has been the blessing of my life."

Ted complements Mary on her role as a grandmother, highlighting the magic and joy they bring to her life.

Ted Danson (75:23): "You and your sense of magic bumps into their, you know, they're just pure magic when they first come out."

Conclusion

Ted and Mary wrap up the episode by celebrating their enduring friendship and love, acknowledging the magical journey they've shared both professionally and personally. Mary emphasizes the significance of their bond and the continuous growth they experience together.

Mary Steenburgen (75:27): "You're such a soulful human and you're constantly growing... everything has some root in being blessed to love you."

Ted echoes Mary's sentiments, expressing deep affection and gratitude for their relationship.

Ted Danson (76:19): "I love you very much, Mary Steenburgen."

The episode closes by encouraging listeners to explore the previous installment covering Mary's early life and first film, with a promise of more conversations in future episodes.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

Mary Steenburgen (02:34): "It was a really lovely movie and still kind of is in its own wonderful way."
Ted Danson (03:22): "That was the first movie that I think I saw you and clocked you and went, oh. Oh my goodness. Yeah, it is an amazing movie."
Mary Steenburgen (05:33): "I decided to go tell him quite early on so he wouldn't hear it from somebody else."
Mary Steenburgen (25:58): "We were all in the same scene, and we were so obsessed with playing Murder and killing each other by winking at each other."
Mary Steenburgen (67:39): "I had a surgery on my arm... I continued to feel weird... obsessed relationship to music."
Mary Steenburgen (75:27): "You're such a soulful human and you're constantly growing... everything has some root in being blessed to love you."
Ted Danson (76:19): "I love you very much, Mary Steenburgen."

Final Thoughts

This episode of "Where Everybody Knows Your Name" offers an intimate glimpse into Mary Steenburgen's life, her artistic journey, and the profound relationships that shape her. Ted Danson's engaging dialogue brings forth stories of resilience, creativity, and the magic that binds these two beloved actors together.

Note: Advertisements, intros, outros, and non-content segments have been excluded to focus solely on the substantive parts of the conversation.