In a historic first for the prestigious Primetime Emmy Awards, beloved Hollywood figures Ted Danson and Mary Steenburgen are set to jointly receive the revered Bob Hope Humanitarian Award at the 2025 ceremony. This unprecedented recognition highlights their extraordinary, decades-long commitment to philanthropic activism, marking a significant milestone in the award’s history.
The esteemed “Hollywood Couple,” who will celebrate their 30th wedding anniversary in October, will accept this honor together during the September Emmys telecast. The Bob Hope Humanitarian Award specifically acknowledges individuals or, in this unique case, a couple, whose “extraordinary” philanthropic efforts and activism have made a profound positive impact on the world, as stated in a recent news release.
Cris Abrego, Chair of the Television Academy, emphasized the profound influence of the couple, noting, “Ted Danson and Mary Steenburgen have long used their voices – and their hearts – to champion causes that uplift the planet and its people. The Television Academy is proud to honor their extraordinary legacy of service with the Bob Hope Humanitarian Award.” Their dedication underscores a deep personal commitment beyond their celebrated acting careers.
Ted Danson’s extensive humanitarian work includes co-founding the American Oceans Campaign in 1987, an initiative dedicated to raising awareness about critical threats to ocean health, such as oil spills and pollution. Beyond environmental advocacy, Danson also lends his support to other significant organizations, including the ASPCA and the Elton John AIDS Foundation, showcasing a broad spectrum of his philanthropic reach.
Mary Steenburgen has equally demonstrated a powerful commitment to various causes. Her philanthropic endeavors include supporting Artists for a Free South Africa, the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, and No Kid Hungry, among others. These efforts reflect her dedication to social justice, health, and addressing childhood hunger, aligning with the spirit of celebrity humanitarian awards.
Together, this dynamic “Hollywood Couple” has amplified their collective impact. They notably co-founded Angels at Risk, an organization providing crucial resources and support for families grappling with the challenges of drug and alcohol abuse. Furthermore, both Ted Danson and Mary Steenburgen are ardent and active supporters of the LGBTQ community, championing equality and acceptance.
Beyond their philanthropic activism, Ted Danson and Mary Steenburgen are celebrated actors in their own right. Danson, a two-time Emmy winner renowned for “Cheers,” and Steenburgen, an Academy Award recipient for “Melvin and Howard,” have each left indelible marks on film and television. Their collaborative screen appearances, including “Gulliver’s Travels” and “It Must be Love,” further solidify their status as a golden couple in the entertainment industry.
The couple’s journey began after meeting in the early 1980s, leading to their marriage in 1995. Both brought children from previous relationships into their blended family, including Mary Steenburgen’s son, Charlie McDowell, who is notably married to “Emily in Paris” star Lily Collins. Their personal lives, marked by enduring partnership and shared values, parallel their public commitment to making a difference.
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