Ted Danson's Surprising Thoughts On Pairing With Shelley Long In Cheers

Ted Danson has recently opened up about his initial thoughts regarding his pairing with co-star Shelley Long on the iconic sitcom Cheers. The actor, now 76, portrayed the charming womanizer Sam Malone, an ex-Boston Red Sox player who owned the bar Cheers. On the other hand, Long, 75, played the sophisticated Diane Chambers, who found herself in an on-and-off romance with Malone throughout the series.

In a candid discussion on the SmartLess podcast, hosted by Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, and Will Arnett, Danson reflected on his early reservations about working with Long. He revealed that during the audition process, his first reaction was quite shocking: he thought it was a "bad idea." Despite this initial doubt, Danson acknowledged the incredible chemistry they developed on screen, which left a lasting impression on audiences.

Arnett praised their chemistry, stating that it was "magic." Danson's perspective on their differences highlights an interesting dynamic; he explained that their contrasting styles and approaches ultimately contributed to their success as a duo. He referred to it as a "fair fight," showcasing how these differences enhanced their performances together.

Cheers, which aired for 11 seasons from 1982 to 1993, produced 275 memorable episodes. While Danson remained part of the show throughout its run, Long departed in 1987 to focus on her film career and family. She was later replaced by Kirstie Alley, who brought a different energy to the show.

Danson reminisced about the challenges faced when filming together, noting that their interactions often involved playful banter and light-hearted conflict. This dynamic worked brilliantly, leading to unforgettable moments that delighted fans. In 2007, Long reflected on their time together in an Australian interview, calling Danson "a delight to work with" and expressing her desire for creative variety in her career.

Ultimately, both actors cherished their experiences on Cheers, with Long stating it was a dream come true and one of the most satisfying endeavors of her life. Danson, too, emphasized that he had never anticipated enjoying such a successful career in sitcoms, revealing that acting only became a focus for him during his college years.