Ted Lange "The Love Boat"

Ted Lange on Racism, Love Boat Memories & His Lifelong Bond with Gavin MacLeod In this unforgettable episode of Still Here Hollywood, host Steve Kmetko sits down with beloved "Love Boat" bartender Ted Lange to talk about his groundbreaking career and the realities of being a Black actor in 1980s network television. Lange opens up about the racism he faced on set—including producers refusing to write love stories for his character—and how castmates like Gavin MacLeod and Bernie Kopell stood by him, even writing their own scripts to ensure he had a voice. With hilarious behind-the-scenes tales of kissing Diahann Carroll, a surprising friendship with Gene Kelly, and his continued creative journey as a playwright and director, Lange reflects on fame, friendship, and fighting injustice with grace. A must-watch for fans of classic 80s comedy TV, Hollywood history, and anyone who stands against racism in the entertainment industry.