Ted Lange’s Off-Broadway Play Reunites ‘The Love Boat’ Cast in NYC

I’m Jaden Patel, and I’ll be guiding you through the latest celebrity news with a dash of dry humor and a razor-sharp sense of irony. It’s not every day that a 77-year-old actor gets to relive his glory days, but Ted Lange is certainly making the most of it. The veteran actor, best known for his role as bartender Isaac Washington on the hit sitcom “The Love Boat,” recently celebrated the opening night of his new Off-Broadway play, “Lady Patriot,” in New York City.

The play, which is based on a true story, tells the tale of three ladies who lived during the Civil War era: Varina Davis, Elizabeth Van Lew, and Mary Bowser. Lange not only wrote and directed the production but also cast his former “Love Boat” co-stars Fred Grandy and Jill Whelan in the play. The trio was joined by other cast members, including Bernie Kopell, 92, for a special event at Theatre Row.

“Lady Patriot” reveals an intimate look into the prejudices and patriotism of its titular characters, exploring themes of loyalty, deception, and the complexities of war. According to Lange, the idea for the play came about when he read a book on the life of Elizabeth Van Lew, a Union sympathizer who lived in the Confederate capital. He was particularly drawn to the story of Mary Bowser, a black slave who worked as a Union spy.

The “Love Boat” cast has always been known for their chemistry, and it’s clear that they still have a strong bond. Lange expressed his delight in working with his former co-stars, citing their “artistic chemistry” and shared love of theatre. The play, which runs for a limited 12-performance engagement from September 6 to 20, also features Josie DiVincenzo, Gordon Goodman, Chrystee Pharris, Derek Powell, and Count Stovall.

For those who may not be familiar, “The Love Boat” aired on ABC for nine seasons, from 1977 to 1986, and followed the adventures of Captain Merrill Stubing and his crew aboard the MS Pacific Princess cruise ship. The show was a beloved staple of 80s television, earning numerous Golden Globe and Primetime Emmy nominations. Lange’s character, Isaac Washington, was a fan favorite, and his chemistry with co-stars like Gavin MacLeod, Fred Grandy, and Jill Whelan helped make the show a success.

After the final performance of “Lady Patriot” on September 20, the “Love Boat” cast will reunite once again for Princess Cruises’ Love Boat Celebration at Sea. The seven-night sailing event, which departs from Galveston, Texas, on November 16, will feature Lange, Grandy, Kopell, and Whelan, as well as other cast members, including Lauren Tewes and Charo.

As the curtain closes on “Lady Patriot,” it’s clear that Ted Lange has found a new passion in life. The veteran actor has proven that he’s still got it, and his love of theatre is inspiring. Who knows what’s next for Lange and his “Love Boat” co-stars? One thing’s for sure: we’ll be keeping an eye on them.

Sources: Celebrity Storm and New York Post, Playbill, People Magazine
Attribution: CBS Photo Archive (Creative Commons)