During a recent reunion cruise celebrating The Love Boat, Fred Grandy and fellow cast members reflected on the show’s enduring impact and addressed past controversies surrounding former co-star Lauren Tewes.
The reunion took place aboard Princess Cruises’ Enchanted Princess, which set sail from Brooklyn, New York on August 31, and journeyed through New England and Canada over seven nights. The event featured appearances by Fred Grandy, Bernie Kopell, Ted Lange, and Jill Whelan, while Lauren Tewes, who played cruise director Julie McCoy, was notably absent.
Tewes, 70, left the show after its seventh season due to her public struggle with cocaine addiction. Although she has since achieved sobriety, her departure has been a subject of discussion among fans and cast members alike.
During a Q&A session on September 6, Jill Whelan spoke warmly of Tewes, describing her as “a sister to all of us” and praising her exceptional acting talent. “She’s just a very genuine, sweet human being,” Whelan said. “I marvel at her ability to seamlessly transition between drama and comedy on the show.”
Fred Grandy, who portrayed Purser Burl “Gopher” Smith, addressed the issue directly. He acknowledged the challenging circumstances of Tewes’ exit, attributing it to the limited understanding of substance abuse issues in the early 1980s. “Substance abuse was seen as a punishable offense rather than a healthcare issue,” Grandy noted. “Lauren was a victim of those circumstances at the time.”
Grandy also highlighted Tewes’ continued importance to the cast, noting her attendance at a recent performance by Grandy, Lange, and Whelan in Michigan. “She came and watched two nights of the show. It was lovely,” Grandy said.
Despite her absence from the cruise, Tewes remains a cherished figure among her former colleagues. Whelan revealed that she frequently spends time with Tewes, emphasizing their enduring friendship. “We cook, laugh, and share stories together regularly,” Whelan said.
The Love Boat’s enduring appeal was a key topic of discussion. Grandy, who transitioned from acting to a successful career in politics, reflected on the show’s impact. “It served as a launching pad for us,” he said. “I wouldn’t have won my first congressional election without it.”
The reunion cruise, which included fan meet-and-greets and various themed activities, demonstrated the lasting popularity of The Love Boat. Grandy expressed amazement at the show’s continued success, comparing it to “The Walking Dead with piña coladas.”
In addition to the nostalgia-driven events, guests enjoyed a range of onboard entertainment, including a cocktail demonstration by Lange, a vow renewal ceremony hosted by Whelan, and various dining experiences.
As Grandy and his castmates continue to celebrate the legacy of The Love Boat, they remain committed to honoring the show’s rich history while fostering connections with fans old and new.