Ted Lange Recalls Racist Encounter with ‘Love Boat’ Guest Star

Key Takeaways:

• A famous guest star on The Love Boat refused to shake hands with Ted Lange, the actor who played bartender Isaac Washington
• The incident occurred during the show’s run from 1977 to 1986 and has left a lasting impression on Lange
• The guest star’s identity remains unknown, as Lange has chosen not to reveal their name
• The Love Boat was known for featuring a wide range of guest stars, from Hollywood legends to up-and-coming talent
• The show originally aired on ABC from September 24, 1977, to May 24, 1986, and spawned numerous specials and a TV movie

Introduction to the Incident
The power of a first impression cannot be overstated, and for Ted Lange, a bad encounter with a famous guest star on The Love Boat has left a lasting impact. In a recent interview on the Still Here Hollywood podcast, Lange recounted the story of how a guest star refused to shake his hand, an incident that has stayed with him to this day. The actor, who played the lovable bartender Isaac Washington on the show, recalled how he was instructed by his costar Gavin MacLeod to welcome the guest star to the set by shaking their hand. However, when Lange approached the guest star and introduced himself, he was met with a cold reception.

The Snub
Lange reenacted the incident on the podcast, demonstrating how the guest star pulled a face and yanked his hand away. The actor was taken aback by the snub, wondering if his costume had anything to do with the guest star’s behavior. Lange speculated that the guest star may have mistaken him for an extra due to his red jacket, but even if that were the case, he couldn’t understand why the guest star would treat him with such disrespect. The incident has left a lasting impression on Lange, who has often thought about the encounter over the years.

The Aftermath
Despite the initial snub, the guest star later approached Lange with the director and introduced himself, pretending as though the earlier incident had never occurred. Lange was unimpressed by the guest star’s attempt to make amends, and the two did not develop a friendly relationship. In fact, Lange revealed that the guest star would often invite him to a golf and tennis tournament, but he never accepted, knowing that the guest star’s behavior was not genuine. The incident has served as a reminder to Lange of the importance of treating others with respect and kindness, regardless of their position or status.

The Love Boat’s Legacy
The Love Boat was a beloved television show that aired on ABC from 1977 to 1986. The show was known for its lighthearted and romantic storylines, as well as its impressive array of guest stars. Over the years, the show featured a wide range of talent, from Hollywood legends like Ginger Rogers and Olivia de Havilland to up-and-coming stars like Tom Hanks and Jamie Lee Curtis. The show’s success can be attributed to its ability to balance humor and heart, making it a staple of 1970s and 1980s television. The show’s legacy continues to be felt today, with many of its episodes still widely popular and its cast members remaining beloved figures in the entertainment industry.

Conclusion
The incident between Ted Lange and the guest star on The Love Boat serves as a reminder of the importance of treating others with respect and kindness. Despite the guest star’s attempts to make amends, the initial snub has left a lasting impression on Lange, who has chosen not to reveal the guest star’s identity. The Love Boat’s legacy continues to be felt today, with its blend of humor and heart making it a beloved part of television history. As for Lange, he has moved on from the incident, but it serves as a reminder of the power of a first impression and the importance of treating others with dignity and respect.