Ted Danson: From Cheers to The Good Place — what to know

Ted Danson has been a familiar face on TV and film for decades. If you know him as Sam Malone from Cheers, you might be surprised by how wide his range really is — from sitcom lead to dramatic turns and vocal environmental activism. This page gives you the useful facts: key roles, where to watch his best work, and how to keep up with what he’s doing now.

Career highlights you can’t miss

Start with Cheers — that role made him a household name and won him Emmy attention. After Cheers, he didn’t just fade away. He took on sitcoms like Becker, then surprised viewers with strong dramatic work in shows such as Damages and CSI. Most recently many younger viewers know him from The Good Place, where he played Michael, a role that earned fresh praise and introduced him to a new audience.

He’s also done films and stage work. If you like variety, check out his film roles and guest appearances: they show a different side than his sitcom persona. Off-screen, Danson is known for ocean and environmental campaigning. He’s worked with groups focused on protecting marine life and reducing plastic pollution — something he talks about often in interviews.

Where to watch, follow and what to pick first

Want a quick watchlist? For comedy fans, start with Cheers — pick the early seasons to see the show’s peak chemistry. For a modern, clever series, binge The Good Place seasons for smart writing and a surprising emotional payoff. If you want drama, look up his episodes of Damages or CSI for a grittier edge.

Streaming availability changes fast. Cheers often appears on major platforms or on cable re-runs; The Good Place cycles between Netflix and other streamers depending on region. Use your platform’s search or a service like JustWatch to find current streaming options. If you prefer physical copies, many seasons are on DVD with bonus features that fans appreciate.

Want news or interviews? Follow mainstream entertainment sites and Danson’s public social accounts. He sometimes appears on talk shows and podcasts to discuss acting and his environmental work. For updates about his activism, check major ocean conservation groups he’s partnered with; they often post collaborative campaigns and events.

Curious about awards and recognition? He’s earned multiple Emmy nominations and wins, plus industry nods for both his comedy and drama work. That balance — laugh-out-loud moments and serious turns — is what keeps him relevant across generations.

Any final tip? If you’re introducing a friend to Ted Danson, pick one comedy episode and one dramatic episode. It’s the fastest way to show his range. If you want deeper context, read a recent interview where he discusses his activism — it explains why he picks certain projects and what matters to him beyond acting.

Want links to specific episodes or streaming pages? Use the site search or our entertainment section to find direct articles and guides on where to watch his top shows and movies.

By Lesego Lehari, 27 Mar, 2025 / Entertainment

Unpacking the 30-Year Silence: Kelsey Grammer and Ted Danson Reveal the Truth Behind Their Estrangement

Kelsey Grammer and Ted Danson opened up about their 30-year estrangement during a podcast, shedding light on the lingering distance that originated on the set of *Cheers*. Personal struggles and protective withdrawal were key factors, but the duo recently reconnected, paving the way for future collaborations and rekindling their friendship.