Delta Burke and Gerald McRaney’s love story began on the set of “Simon & Simon,” where McRaney, the “Major Dad” star, asked Burke out on a date after a guest appearance. Despite warnings from McRaney’s friends, the couple married in 1989, and McRaney declared, “I wasn’t going to let her get away.”
As both actors, they understood the challenges of their industry and supported each other. McRaney acknowledged Burke’s influence on his performances, saying, “When Burke tells him something was good or that he can do better, he knows she’s telling the truth.”
Their enduring love faced challenges when Burke’s health declined due to type 2 diabetes. In 1998, amidst family health crises and professional struggles, Burke grappled with misdiagnoses until learning about her condition. McRaney stood by her, assisting with insulin shots and dietary adjustments.
Despite hardships, including McRaney’s battle with lung cancer in 2004 and Burke’s mother overcoming breast cancer, their love persevered. Today, Burke manages her illness with McRaney’s support. She appreciates his unwavering love, stating, “He loved me when I got as big as a house… He has loved me through my up times and my down times.”
The couple, content with a relaxed life in Central Florida, focuses on staying active and healthy. Burke, optimistic about her recovery, has no plans to return to acting. McRaney, not considering retirement, spends quality time with Burke and their combined family of three children from McRaney’s previous marriage. Their enduring love and shared experiences in the entertainment industry have fortified their bond for over three decades.
