In a recent interview on SiriusXM’s Where Everybody Knows Your Name podcast, 43-year-old comedian Vanessa Bayer revealed an interesting twist in her past romantic life. She shared with host Ted Danson that she almost became part of his family. The former Saturday Night Live star reminisced about a brief relationship with Charlie McDowell, the stepson of Danson and son of renowned actor Malcolm McDowell and actress Mary Steenburgen. Bayer recounted a coffee date with McDowell at Cafe Gratitude, noting that it went well with some follow-up texts. However, their relationship did not progress further as McDowell eventually found love with actress Lily Collins, whom he married in 2021. Bayer humorously compared her father’s achievements to those of Collins’ famous musician father, Phil Collins, adding a lighthearted touch to the conversation.
Bayer’s revelation brought back memories of a moment that could have significantly altered her life path. During the podcast, she elaborated on the specifics of her encounter with McDowell. The two met for coffee at the trendy Cafe Gratitude, where they enjoyed a pleasant conversation. Bayer mentioned with a chuckle that there was indeed some post-date texting, indicating mutual interest. However, fate had other plans, and McDowell ultimately pursued a relationship with Lily Collins, leading to their marriage in 2021. Bayer expressed admiration for Collins, acknowledging her talent and her connection to the music legend Phil Collins. Despite this, she couldn’t resist playfully boasting about her own father’s unique accomplishments, particularly his innovative contributions to the packaging industry.
The discussion also touched upon the cultural significance of communication after a first date. When asked if the absence of follow-up messages signifies the end of a potential relationship, Bayer affirmed this notion. She explained that in today’s digital age, continued communication is often seen as a positive sign of interest. This perspective reflects broader societal trends in dating etiquette, where immediate feedback plays a crucial role in determining the future of relationships.
Mary Steenburgen, Charlie McDowell’s mother, provided additional insight into the couple’s relationship during an earlier interview. She recalled meeting Lily Collins at a celebrity event and immediately sensing a strong connection between her son and Collins. Steenburgen felt confident that Collins would be a perfect match for McDowell even before they officially started dating. Her intuition proved correct, as the pair soon became engaged and later married. This anecdote highlights the importance of familial support and instinct in forming lasting relationships.
Bayer’s reflection on her near-familial connection to the Danson household offers a glimpse into the unpredictable nature of personal relationships. While her initial interaction with McDowell didn’t lead to a long-term partnership, it remains a memorable chapter in her life. The comedian’s ability to laugh at and appreciate these moments showcases her resilience and positive outlook on life’s unexpected turns. Ultimately, the story serves as a reminder that every experience, whether fleeting or enduring, contributes to shaping who we are.