William Daniels and Bonnie Bartlett have opened up about the unconventional beginnings of their union as they prepare for their 75th wedding anniversary.
In a new interview with Daily Mail published on May 18, Bartlett addressed comments she made in 2023 that surprised fans when she described their early years together as “a little open marriage.”
“There was never any discussion about what we were going to do,” the Emmy-winning actress explained. “That hasn’t been said. Bill and I never sit down and make rules. We just don’t do that. We just live our lives. And if he’s out for a year, he’s out for a year.”
Barlett admitted that she and Daniels sometimes sought romance outside of their marriage.
“So there were moments, yes, both, on both sides,” she said. “We were never bothered, but our lives took different directions at times.”
He emphasized that his dedication always stayed with Bartlett.
“I wouldn’t be with anyone in my life other than this woman sitting next to me,” he said.
Barlett is widely known for St. Elsewhere, Little House on the Prairie and Home Improvement, while Daniels, who starred as M/r. Feenie on Boy Meets World.
The couple married in June 1951, and their enduring bond has long been celebrated in Hollywood.
Last year, Daniels appeared on Dancing with the Stars during Dedication Night, when Boy Meets World alum Danielle Fishel honored him with a performance.
