Hilarie Burton has no issue with people admiring her husband, Jeffrey Dean Morgan — in fact, she finds it amusing and endearing. Since Morgan took on the hosting role for NBC’s Destination X, which premiered in May, Burton says she’s received an outpouring of messages from friends and school moms who are smitten with him.
“I have just thoroughly enjoyed all the moms at school having a crush on him,” Burton told PEOPLE, revealing that even her high school friends have reached out to say their wives or mothers are huge fans. Her reaction? Full support. “They should. He’s great,” she said with a laugh.
Burton Encouraged Morgan to Host, Revealing His Humor and Expanding His Versatile Talent
Despite his success as a beloved (and sometimes feared) TV star, Jeffrey Dean Morgan was initially unsure about becoming a host. Known for his gruff, sarcastic persona — especially through his portrayal of Negan in The Walking Dead — Morgan doubted whether he was a fit for a hosting role.
“I’m not Ryan Seacrest,” he admitted, expressing hesitation. However, it was Burton who encouraged him to take the leap, diplomatically reminding him that he wasn’t getting any younger and pushing him toward new experiences. Her encouragement ultimately led him to embrace the opportunity, showing fans a different side of himself.
Hilarie Burton Cheers on School Moms Crushing on Jeffrey Dean Morgan and His Hosting DebutDestination X gave fans a look at the real Jeffrey Dean Morgan — humorous and charming, in stark contrast to the hardened characters he usually plays. Burton, who knows his softer side intimately, believes this contrast helps audiences appreciate his talent even more.
“When he has to go play this dastardly creature, it shows you what range he possesses,” she explained, referencing his role as Negan. She believes that seeing Morgan’s true personality on the show adds depth to his darker roles and showcases his acting versatility.
Burton and Morgan’s On-Screen Reunion Blends Grief, Love, and Creative Partnership
Burton recently reprised her role as Lucille, Negan’s late wife, in The Walking Dead: Dead City, filming an emotionally charged cameo shortly after Morgan’s father passed away in July 2024. She described the experience as “really hard,” but praised Morgan for channeling his grief into his performance without compromising the quality of the work.
Although a third season hasn’t been officially announced, co-star Lauren Cohan has hinted at exciting new developments for Negan’s storyline — possibly setting the stage for more appearances from Burton as Lucille.
Hilarie Burton and Jeffrey Dean Morgan, married since 2019 and together since 2009, continue to support each other in both personal and professional endeavors. Whether working together on The Walking Dead spinoff or cheering each other on from the sidelines, their dynamic remains strong.
Burton says she never hesitates when Morgan asks her to collaborate: “The answer is always yes.” She appreciates the push he gives her and values the longstanding relationships they’ve built within the franchise. As Morgan branches out into new roles like hosting Destination X, it’s clear the couple is thriving both in front of and behind the camera.