For 33 years, Delta Burke’s husband has been unwavering in his support, standing by her through sickness and weight gain, proving true love’s resilience!
A lasting marriage can weather any storm. In today’s world, it’s easy to see people taking their marital vows for granted, but Delta Burke and Gerald McRaney are the epitome of a couple who have stayed true to their promises for over three decades. Their journey has been filled with challenges, but through it all, their love and commitment to each other have only grown stronger.
A Love That Defied the Odds
When Gerald McRaney first met actress Delta Burke, he knew he couldn’t let her slip away. With many other men vying for her attention, McRaney was determined to make his move. He recalls with fondness, “I wasn’t going to let her get away. There were people asking her out, and I knew I had to act fast.”
Their connection was instant, and on their second date, McRaney boldly popped the question, asking Burke to marry him. Although it took another two years before they tied the knot in 1989, McRaney knew he was marrying the woman of his dreams. While it was Burke’s first marriage, McRaney had been married before, but this time, he was committed to making it last.
Challenges Along the Way
Not everyone was supportive of their union, especially some of McRaney’s friends, who raised doubts. But McRaney didn’t let anyone’s negativity sway him. “Why not?” he would say. “They’re the only ones who understand this insanity. And she does. If I’m on set and don’t call her until 2 a.m., no big deal. She gets it.”
Both working in the entertainment industry gave them a unique understanding of each other’s struggles. They could provide advice and offer support during tough times. McRaney’s success with his role on This Is Us was a testament to their mutual love and respect. When he won a Primetime Emmy, Burke was right there, her eyes filled with tears, cheering him on from the audience.
Weathering Life’s Storms Together
Their bond was truly tested in 1998 when Burke faced a series of personal challenges. She lost her grandmother, and shortly after, her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. On top of that, she was on a career break due to a fallout with the producers of Designing Women. Fans began to notice her weight gain, but what they didn’t know was that Burke had been struggling with hypoglycemia, which caused her weight to increase.
The battle with her health continued, with misdiagnoses and struggles to find the right treatment. Eventually, she was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, but even as her body changed, McRaney stood by her side. Burke’s struggles with her health included caring for her mother, which left little time for herself. However, McRaney made sure she took care of her health, supporting her through insulin shots and encouraging her to take her medication.
Through it all, Burke never doubted McRaney’s love. “He loved me when I got as big as a house,” she says. “He’s loved me through the highs and the lows. He still thinks my body looks great, even when I don’t!”
A Bright Future Ahead
After all they’ve been through, Burke is finally in a good place health-wise, thanks in part to the unwavering support of her husband. While she has no plans to return to acting, McRaney would love the chance to work with her again. The couple, who have no children together but helped raise McRaney’s three kids from a previous marriage, are now preparing to move to a home they’ve bought in central Florida.
Despite the challenges, the McRaney-Burke relationship remains a shining example of what it means to truly honor your wedding vows. Their love story continues to inspire, proving that with support, understanding, and commitment, a marriage can overcome any obstacle.
Here’s to 33 years of love, laughter, and loyalty! Share this inspiring story to remind everyone of what a solid and loving marriage looks like.