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Ted Lange
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Ted Lange
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Theodore William Lange III (/lændʒ/; born January 5, 1948) is an American actor, director and screenwriter best known for his roles as bartender Isaac Washington in the TV series The Love Boat (1977–1986) and Junior in That's My Mama (1974–75).

Key Information

Early life, family and education

[edit]

Lange was born in Oakland, California, in 1948, the son of Geraldine and Theodore William Jr., both working in theatre and television.[1] Lange graduated from Oakland Technical High School where he was class and student body president. He completed an associate of arts degree at Merritt Junior College in Oakland before majoring in Drama at San Francisco City College. At City College, Lange was particularly active on the theatre scene and named Best Actor by the Black Students Association. He also won a scholarship to the University of Colorado Shakespearean Festival in the summer of 1968.[2] Lange is a directing alumnus of The American Film Institute.[3]

Career

[edit]

Career beginnings

[edit]

After college, Lange started in theatre appearing in local Oakland productions and as guest artist in residence at the University of Santa Clara. Later, he joined the New Shakespearan Company, acting in plays at the University of California, Berkeley.[2]

Lange made his Broadway debut in the musical Hair and was featured in the first national touring of the show.[4] He also performed in a one-man show, Behind the Mask: An Evening with Paul Laurence Dunbar.[5]

Lange's first screen appearance was in the documentary film Wattstax in 1973.[6][7] After appearing in the film Black Belt Jones in 1974, he portrayed Junior on the series That's My Mama before landing the role of the ship's bartender, Isaac, on The Love Boat in 1977, opposite Gavin MacLeod. After he left the show in 1987, Lange appeared in various films and in guest roles on 227, In the Heat of the Night, Evening Shade, Boy Meets World, The King of Queens, Scrubs, Drake & Josh, Psych, The Cleveland Show, and Are We There Yet?

In the early 1980s, following a letter of recommendation from Lynn Redgrave (whom he met on an episode of The Love Boat), Lange attended a summer school at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art to perfect his Shakespeare acting skills.[8]

Directing and writing

[edit]

In 1977, he co-wrote the screenplay for the drama Passing Through, starring Nathaniel Taylor. During the run of The Love Boat, Lange also served as director and screenwriter of several episodes of the series. In 1999, Lange directed two episodes of Love Boat: The Next Wave, the UPN series based on The Love Boat. He also directed episodes of Moesha, Dharma & Greg, and Eve. In 2008, he directed the drama For Love of Amy.

Lange has also done extensive theater work as playwright and stage director. He has penned 17 plays, including George Washington's Boy, a historical drama about the relationship between the first president and his favorite slave, along with the comedy Lemon Meringue Facade.[5][9]

Lange remained close to Gavin MacLeod, his acting mentor, who was a Palm Springs resident and saw his plays. In a 2014 interview with CBS New York, he said of his long-running friendship with him "Gavin lives in Palm Springs, I'm in LA. So, when I do my plays, he comes down and sees my plays or I'll go see what he's doing!"[10] Lange also said in a 2017 interview with The Wiseguyz Show: "Oh yeah, sure, Gavin was wonderful. Gavin lives down here in Palm Springs and we're still tight, all of us, Gavin and Bernie and Jill; we still see each other. Fred lives in a different state, we're still close, we're still good friends."[11]

"Ask Isaac"

[edit]

Before the American edition of FHM folded in 2006, Lange wrote a sex and advice column, titled "Ask Isaac", with adult film actress Jenna Jameson.[12]

Celebrity Fit Club

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In 2006, Lange appeared in the fourth season of the VH1 reality show Celebrity Fit Club.[13] He lost 28 pounds during the show's run.[14]

Personal life

[edit]

Lange married Sheryl Thompson in 1978, and they divorced in 1989. The couple has two children, Theodore William IV and Turner Wallace Lange.[1] Lange married Mary Ley in 2001.[15] His mother, Geraldine Lange, was a personal secretary to a San Francisco mayor and was public affairs director of KBHK-TV in San Francisco in the early 1970s. She also hosted programs on KBHK-TV. She died from COVID-19 on April 10, 2021 at the age of 96.[16]

Awards

[edit]

For his work theater directing, Lange received the NAACP's Renaissance Man Theatre Award, the Heroes and Legends HAL Lifetime Achievement Award, and the Dramalogue Award. Lange has also been the recipient of the James Cagney Directing Fellow Scholarship Award from the American Film Institute along with the Paul Robeson Award from Oakland's Ensemble Theatre.[9]

Filmography

[edit]
Film
Year Film Role Other notes
1973 Wattstax Himself Documentary film
Trick Baby Melvin the Pimp Alternative title: The Double Con
Blade Henry Watson
1974 Black Belt Jones Militant Uncredited
1975 Friday Foster Fancy Dexter
1977 Passing Through
-
 Co-writer
1978 Record City The Wiz
1987 Terminal Exposure Fantastic Alternative title: Double Exposure
1988 Glitch! DuBois
1989 Othello Othello Also director
1990 Penny Ante: The Motion Picture The Deacon
1991 Perfume George
1992 The Naked Truth The Flower Peddler
1998 Sandman Gnome
2000 The Redemption Reverend
2002 Is This Your Mother?
2003 Banana Moon Prof. Williams Also co-producer
Gang of Roses Bartender #2
2006 Uncle Tom's Apartment Pops
National Lampoon's Dorm Daze 2 Celebrity Judge #2
2007 Last of the Romantics Cole Henderson
Carts Sam
2008 Senior Skip Day Reverend Alternative title: High School's Day Off
2009 Who Shot Mamba? Dr. Crazy
The Adventures of Umbweki Airline Captain Boka
For Love of Amy
-
 Director
2010 Bed & Breakfast Judge / Mediator
2011 Phil Cobb's Dinner for Four Old Friend
Television
Year Title Role Notes
1974–1975 That's My Mama Junior 39 episodes
1976 Mr. T and Tina Harvard 5 episodes
1977–1987 The Love Boat Bartender Isaac Washington 246 episodes, also director and writer
1977 The Love Boat II Bartender Isaac Washington Television movie
The New Love Boat Bartender Isaac Washington Television movie
1979 Fantasy Island The Great Scott 1 episode
Charlie's Angels Bartender Isaac Washington 1 episode
1983 The Fall Guy Bartender 3 episodes, director
Fantasy Island
-
 1 episode, director
1984 Mickey Spillane's Mike Hammer
-
 2 episodes, director
1986 That's My Mama Now! Junior Television movie
1986 John Grin's Christmas Ghost of Christmas Present Television movie
1987 Starman
-
 1 episode, director
1988 Christmas Ghost of Christmas Present Television movie
227 Lou Wilson 1 episode
In the Heat of the Night James Jeffson 1 episode
1989 It Nearly Wasn't Christmas Napoleon Television movie
1990 The Love Boat: A Valentine Voyage Bartender Isaac Washington Television movie
1993 Evening Shade Mr. Taxerman 1 episode
1995 Platypus Man Mr. Angel 1 episode
1996 Weird Science Isaac 1 episode
1996–2000 Moesha
-
 Director, 5 episodes
1997 Martin Bartender Isaac Washington 2 episodes
Family Matters Frank Winslow 1 episode
Boy Meets World Himself 1 episode
1998 Love Boat: The Next Wave Bartender Isaac Washington 1 episode
The Wayans Bros.
-
 Director, 1 episode
1999 L.A. Heat Frank Millan 1 episode
Love Boat: The Next Wave
-
 Director, 2 episodes
2001 Cody: An Evening with Buffalo Bill
-
 Director
Dharma & Greg
-
 Director, 2 episodes
2002 The Hughleys Mr. Henderson 1 episode
Scrubs Mr. Blair 1 episode
2003 Half & Half Repairman 1 episode
2004 Eve
-
 Director, 1 episode
2004–2005 Drake & Josh Mr. Calvert 2 episodes
2005 All of Us
-
 Director, 1 episode
The King of Queens Himself 1 episode
2007 General Hospital Judge 2 episodes
2008 Psych Pookie 1 episode
2010 The Cleveland Show Himself (voice) 1 episode
2011 A Russell Peters Christmas Himself 1 episode
2011–2012 Are We There Yet? Ad Director / Captain 2 episodes; also director
2012 Betty White's Off Their Rockers Various characters Main cast
2012–2015 Mr. Box Office Director, 33 episodes
2012–2013 The First Family
-
 Director, 23 episodes
2014 Maron Wise Stranger 1 episode
2022 The Real Love Boat Himself
Video Games
Year Title Voice Notes
1996 You Don't Know Jack Volume 2 Himself

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Ted Lange

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Theodore William "Ted" Lange III (born January 5, 1948) is an American actor, director, and best known for his role as the charismatic bartender Isaac Washington on the long-running ABC The Love Boat, which aired from 1977 to 1986 and featured him in nearly 250 episodes. Born in , Lange attended and earned an associate degree from before studying drama at , where he became active in local theater productions. He later trained at London's Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, honing his skills in Shakespearean performance. Lange began his professional career on Broadway with a role in the groundbreaking musical in 1968, followed by a role in the short-lived ABC (1974–1975), where he played Junior. His breakthrough came with , which established him as a beloved figure in and pop culture, and he reprised the role in several TV movies. Beyond acting, Lange has directed dozens of episodes of television, including shows like and The New Odd Couple, earning him recognition as a versatile filmmaker. He has also written more than 25 plays, such as Behind the Mask: An Exploration of the History of , and has received multiple theatrical awards for his contributions to stage and screen. In recent years, Lange has remained active, appearing in guest roles on series like Hotel Du Loone (2018) and the film Twelve (2024), while directing and writing for theater; in 2025, he premiered his play Lady Patriot at Theatre Row, reuniting with former Love Boat co-stars and for the production. Lange was previously married to Sheryl Thompson, with whom he has two sons, Theodore William IV and Turner Wallace, before divorcing in 1989; he has been married to Mary Ley since 2001. Throughout his over 50-year career, he has balanced entertainment with , teaching workshops and serving as an associate professor at the University of Southern California's School of Cinematic Arts.

Early life and education

Childhood and family

Theodore William Lange III, known professionally as Ted Lange, was born on January 5, 1948, in , to Theodore William Lange Jr. and Geraldine "Gerri" Lange (née Wilson). His father was an actor associated with the Ebony Showcase Theatre in Oakland, while his mother worked as a pioneering television host and public affairs director at KBHK-TV in , as well as serving as a personal secretary to a San Francisco mayor. Lange grew up in a family immersed in the and media, with his parents' careers providing early glimpses into the world of . He had three siblings: a younger brother, Michael Lange, who also pursued acting and directing in Oakland's theater scene; a sister, Jana Lange; and a brother, James Cowan. The family remained rooted in Oakland during his childhood, where the local Black arts community, including venues like the Showcase, fostered an environment of creative expression that influenced Lange from a young age. This familial encouragement and proximity to Oakland's vibrant theater scene sparked Lange's initial interest in performance, setting the stage for his later pursuits in drama during high school.

Formal education

Ted Lange attended in , where he graduated in 1966 as class and student body president. During his time there, he participated in several school productions, marking his early involvement in theater. Following high school, Lange earned an associate of arts degree from Merritt in Oakland before transferring to San Francisco City College to major in drama. At City College, he immersed himself in the theater program, earning recognition as from the Black Students Union for his performances. Lange pursued postgraduate training at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in , where he graduated with a focus on classical techniques. A pivotal experience came during a Shakespeare course at RADA, which honed his skills in Shakespearean performance and inspired his later adaptations of the playwright's works, shaping his distinctive style.

Career

Early acting roles

Lange made his Broadway debut as a replacement in the of the musical Hair, taking on roles such as Member of the Tribe and Young Recruit during the production's run starting in 1968. The show's innovative blend of , counterculture themes, and improvisational elements provided Lange with formative experiences in a groundbreaking theatrical environment that challenged traditional norms. He subsequently joined the first national touring company of Hair, performing across the and gaining exposure to diverse audiences while honing his skills in a high-energy, ensemble-driven format. Beyond Broadway, Lange built his resume through numerous off-Broadway and regional theater productions in the late and early 1970s, accumulating over 50 credits in classical and modern works. Notable appearances included Clifford Odets's Golden Boy, the historical drama Tell Pharaoh, Ben Caldwell's Ain't Supposed to Die a Natural Death, and the Muhammad Ali-inspired musical Big Time Buck White in . These roles spanned genres from to musical revues, allowing him to explore complex characters in intimate settings and regional venues like the New Committee Theatre. Lange's early television work in the early consisted primarily of supporting roles in films and series that marked his transition to screen acting. His first screen appearance came in the documentary (1973), capturing the vibrant energy of the Watts Summer Festival. He followed with parts in films such as (1974) as a henchman and Friday Foster (1975) as Fancy Dexter, alongside . On television, he landed his first recurring role as Junior in the sitcom (1974–1975), portraying a young man navigating family dynamics in a barbershop. As a actor entering the industry in the late , Lange encountered significant barriers, including limited opportunities for non-stereotypical roles amid the era's in casting practices. Many of his initial parts, such as pimps or militants in films like Trick Baby (1972) and (1973), reflected the prevalent for African American performers before broader diversification in the 1970s. Despite these constraints, his theater training from the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art equipped him to persist, emphasizing authentic expression as a foundation for performers in a predominantly white-dominated field.

Breakthrough with The Love Boat

In 1977, Ted Lange was cast as Isaac Washington, the affable bartender on the ABC sitcom The Love Boat, a role that marked his entry into mainstream television stardom. The series, created by Aaron Spelling and Douglas S. Cramer, premiered that year and ran for nine seasons until 1986, with Lange appearing in all 250 episodes plus reunion TV movies in 1987 and 1990. Isaac Washington was portrayed as a charismatic, empathetic figure who served drinks and dispensed wisdom to passengers and crew aboard the fictional Pacific Princess cruise ship, evolving over the series from a simple bartender to occasionally stepping into more prominent roles, such as temporarily acting as cruise director in season 8's premiere episode when Julie McCoy fell ill. The character's signature catchphrase, "Cheers!", delivered with an enthusiastic finger snap and celebratory dance move—a hip-shaking shimmy—became iconic, symbolizing the show's lighthearted, feel-good vibe and endearing Isaac to audiences worldwide. Behind the scenes, Lange filmed the grueling schedule of 250 episodes alongside co-stars like Gavin MacLeod (Captain Stubing), Bernie Kopell (Doc Bricker), Fred Grandy (Gopher Smith), Lauren Tewes (Julie McCoy), and Jill Whelan (Vicki Stubing), fostering close-knit dynamics that endured long after the show ended, as evidenced by their frequent reunions on cruises and at events. The production's anthology format, featuring A-list guest stars like Gene Kelly and Diahann Carroll in nearly every episode, contributed to The Love Boat's status as a cultural juggernaut, drawing up to 39 million weekly viewers at its peak and revolutionizing the cruise industry by glamorizing ocean voyages. While the role propelled Lange to global fame—making him instantly recognizable internationally through syndication—it also led to as a , limiting dramatic opportunities despite his prior theater background aiding his . Nonetheless, the decade-long gig provided financial security, allowing Lange to support his family and pursue creative passions amid the show's lucrative residuals.

Post-Love Boat acting

Following the conclusion of The Love Boat in 1986, Ted Lange actively sought to broaden his acting portfolio beyond the charismatic bartender Isaac Washington, whose popularity had established him as a television staple but also posed challenges in pursuing deeper dramatic work. Drawing on his training at London's Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, Lange transitioned toward more substantive roles in television, film, and theater, emphasizing Shakespearean and character-driven performances in regional venues. Lange maintained a presence on television through select guest spots and voice roles in the years after The Love Boat. In 1988, he appeared as James 'J.J.' Jeffson in an episode of In the Heat of the Night. Later, from 2009 to 2013, he provided voice work for the animated series The Cleveland Show, portraying himself in the 2010 episode "Cleveland's Angels," where his character takes over Cleveland's job at a bar. In film, Lange took on leading and supporting parts that highlighted his dramatic range. He starred as the titular character in the 1989 independent adaptation of Othello, a project he also directed. More recently, he played Ryan in the 2021 horror film Blood Pageant, Jermiah Jackson (Pops) in the 2024 film Twelve, and appeared as the Reverend in an episode of the web series The Quarantine Bunch (2020). He also guest-starred as himself on the reality series The Real Love Boat (2022). Lange's return to theater underscored his successes in escaping light comedy, with prominent regional stage roles that showcased his classical skills. In 1988, he led as in a production at ' Inner City Cultural Center, earning praise for a straightforward interpretation that honored Shakespeare's tragedy while addressing themes of jealousy and manipulation. He later portrayed Reverend Avery in August Wilson's at South Coast Repertory in 1999, contributing to a robust ensemble exploration of family legacy and in the American South. These performances marked key milestones in Lange's shift toward serious dramatic acting post-fame.

Directing and writing contributions

Lange transitioned into directing during his tenure on , where his familiarity with the production from an acting standpoint facilitated his move behind the camera, beginning in 1980. He directed 12 episodes of the series, contributing to its signature blend of episodic storytelling and ensemble dynamics. Beyond , Lange amassed a substantial body of television directing work, helming over 60 episodes of the sitcoms The First Family and Mr. Box Office for Entertainment Studios, as well as 12 episodes of Are We There Yet?. His credits also include episodes of shows such as , Love Boat: The Next Wave, and In the House, showcasing his versatility across comedy and drama formats. In addition to directing, Lange contributed as a for television, penning seven episodes of . These scripts often emphasized character-driven narratives centered on interpersonal connections, aligning with the show's thematic focus. His writing extended to standalone theatrical works, including the 1980s play Blues in My Coffee, a comedy-drama exploring relational tensions. Lange's creative pursuits evolved toward theater in the and beyond, where he directed numerous productions and authored over 25 original plays. These works frequently delved into themes of race, identity, and relationships, as seen in pieces like Lady Patriot, a Civil War-era drama addressing historical inequities, and Lemon Meringue Facade, which examines personal and cultural facades in intimate bonds. Complementing his professional output, Lange has served in an educational capacity, appointed as an at the University of Southern California's School of Cinematic Arts, where he taught a weekly course on film directing to nurture emerging talent in the field.

Other professional activities

Ask Isaac advice column

Ted Lange extended the persona of his iconic The Love Boat character, bartender Isaac Washington, into print media with the "Ask Isaac" , launched in the early 2000s. The column appeared in the U.S. edition of magazine, where Lange offered humorous guidance on relationships and personal dilemmas, drawing directly from Isaac's role as a to passengers. Co-written with adult film actress in a point-counterpoint format, "Ask Isaac" blended Lange's witty, empathetic tone with candid discussions on topics like sex, dating, and life challenges. Lange emphasized humor and practical advice, such as promoting use, to make the content engaging and responsible. This style captured Isaac's signature charm—lighthearted yet insightful—while addressing real-world issues for a magazine readership. The column ran until FHM's U.S. edition ceased publication in 2006, with some content extending to online formats through the magazine's digital presence during the . By repurposing his character's advisory role in a modern context, "Ask Isaac" broadened Lange's reach to non-television audiences, sustaining the cultural legacy of The Love Boat's affable bartender and introducing his humor to a younger, print-savvy demographic.

Reality television appearances

Lange participated in the fourth season of VH1's Celebrity Fit Club in 2006, a series where celebrities teamed up to lose through diet, exercise, and motivational challenges. As a member of the "Weezy Weight Watchers" team, he navigated team dynamics and interpersonal conflicts with contestants including rapper Bone Crusher and actress , often drawing on his charismatic persona from to foster group morale during weigh-ins and physical tasks. Over the course of the season, Lange achieved a total of 28 pounds, representing a 14.8% reduction, which highlighted his commitment to improving his health and fitness in his late 50s. In 2005, Lange served as a guest referee for a riding challenge on Bravo's Battle of the Network Reality Stars, a short-lived series pitting alumni from various reality shows against each other in physical competitions, leveraging his enduring fame from to add nostalgic appeal to the event. Lange made a special in the 2022 CBS reality dating series , reprising his iconic role as bartender Isaac Washington in the premiere episode's aboard a ship, allowing him to reflect on his career while connecting with a new generation of viewers through the show's cruise-themed format. He also competed in the 2017 ABC revival of Battle of the Network Stars as part of the ABC team, participating in athletic events against celebrities from other networks, further showcasing his post-Love Boat media presence in competitive reality formats.

Musical performances

In addition to his work in acting, directing, and writing, Lange has pursued a career in music as an accordionist, vocalist, and midi bass player with the polka band Squeezebox, led by Mollie B. He joined the group in the early 2000s and has performed at festivals, cruises, and events across the United States. As of 2025, Lange continues to tour with Squeezebox, including appearances at Oktoberfest celebrations in October 2025 and a performance at Fort Randall Casino in February 2026.

Recent theater productions

In the 2020s, Ted Lange has focused on theater amid the industry's recovery from the , culminating in the premiere of his play Lady Patriot at Theatre Row in . The production ran for a limited engagement from September 6 to 20, 2025, with Lange serving as writer, director, and producer. Lady Patriot concludes Lange's historical trilogy, following George Washington's Boy and The Journals of Osborne P. Anderson, and draws from the true story of , an enslaved Black woman who spied for the Union in the Confederate during the Civil War. The play explores themes of patriotism, prejudice, and the resilience of enslaved individuals in the , blending and drama to challenge stereotypes from the Confederacy era. It centers on three women—, Confederate First Lady , and Union spy —highlighting their divergent loyalties and the social injustices of the time. Lange's direction emphasized historical accuracy while incorporating his signature mix of humor and poignant social commentary, reflecting his ongoing commitment to educating audiences about overlooked figures in American history. The opening night on September 9, 2025, featured a reunion of co-stars, including and , who appeared in the production alongside in attendance. The event included a hidden tribute to their late castmate , who passed away in 2022, underscoring the enduring bonds from the series. This gathering highlighted Lange's evolution as a theater artist, bridging his television legacy with contemporary stage work centered on and historical reflection.

Personal life

Marriages and family

Lange married Sheryl Thompson in 1978, and the couple divorced in 1989. They have two sons: Theodore William Lange IV and Turner Wallace Lange. Lange's younger son, Turner Lange, has pursued a career in as an , , and animator based in , with credits including work on films such as The Green Hornet (2011) and (2020). His older son, Theodore IV, attended an art school in , New York, and has expressed interest in writing. In 2001, Lange married Mary Ley, with whom he continues to reside in Los Angeles. The couple has maintained a low public profile regarding their family life, focusing on Lange's ongoing professional endeavors.

Health and philanthropy

In 2006, Ted Lange participated in the fourth season of the reality series Celebrity Fit Club, where he competed alongside other celebrities to achieve goals through diet, exercise, and team challenges, ultimately shedding 28 pounds (13 kg) as part of his personal and wellness journey. This appearance highlighted his commitment to awareness, emphasizing the physical and emotional benefits of fitness for public figures facing pressures in Hollywood. Lange has long advocated for actors' rights and greater diversity in the entertainment industry, notably serving as co-chairman of the African American Steering Committee for the in 1997, a role that focused on promoting opportunities for directors and storytellers. He has also spoken publicly on the need for inclusive representation, as in a 2016 where he addressed the lack of diversity at the , urging Hollywood to amplify underrepresented voices to foster equity. Through his philanthropy, Lange has supported arts education and emerging talent via the , participating in multiple Poker Classic fundraisers that benefit programs like the Voice-Over Lab, which provides training and resources for aspiring performers from diverse backgrounds. These efforts align with his broader dedication to nurturing artistic development in underserved communities, drawing from his own Oakland roots and experiences in theater.

Awards and honors

Lange has received numerous awards for his work in theater, directing, and , particularly recognizing his contributions to African American theater and stage productions.

NAACP Theatre Awards

  • Best Play for Four Queens - No Trump (1997)
  • for Louie and (2001)
  • Best Play for The Cause, My Soul, the Prequel to (2017)
  • Renaissance Man Theatre Award (date not specified)

Other honors

  • Paul Robeson Award from the Oakland Ensemble Theatre (date not specified)
  • James Cagney Directing Fellow Scholarship Award from the (date not specified)
  • Dramalogue Award for Outstanding Directing of The Visit (date not specified)
  • Artistic Director Achievement Award for directing Lemon Meringue Facade (date not specified)
  • Heroes and Legends HAL Lifetime Achievement Award (date not specified)
  • Honorary star plaque on the for The Love Boat cast (2018)

Filmography

Television roles

Ted Lange began his television acting career in the early 1970s with guest and recurring roles in sitcoms. He appeared as Junior in the ABC series (1974–1975), a role that showcased his comedic timing in ensemble scenes centered on family dynamics. He also had a recurring role as Ray in (1976), a short-lived sitcom about a Japanese family in America. Lange achieved widespread recognition for his starring role as the charismatic Isaac Washington on the ABC anthology series (1977–1986), appearing in all 250 episodes across nine seasons. In the role, he often provided and sang signature tunes like "The Love Boat Theme," interacting with a rotating cast of celebrity guest stars. The character became a , symbolizing the show's lighthearted . Following The Love Boat, Lange transitioned to a variety of guest spots on prominent series. He played Lou Wilson in an episode of 227 (1985) and a barkeeper in The Fall Guy (1981). In the 1990s, he guest-starred as a fraternity advisor in Boy Meets World (1997) and reprised variations of his Isaac persona in episodes of Martin (1992) and Weird Science (1994). In the 2000s, Lange continued with notable guest appearances, including Mr. Blair, a patient, in the season 2 episode "My New Coat" of Scrubs (2002). He voiced himself in the animated series The Cleveland Show episode "Cleveland's Angels" (2010), where his character takes over a bar job in a comedic plot twist. Other credits from this period include roles in Psych (2008) as Pookie and The King of Queens (2004). Lange participated in The Love Boat reunion specials and talk show segments, such as the 2013 episode of The Talk where he joined castmates , , , , and to reminisce about the series. In the 2020s, he made cameo appearances, including as Reverend in The Quarantine Bunch (2020) and himself on (2022), a of the original series.

Film roles

Ted Lange began his film career in the early 1970s with roles in and action films, often portraying supporting characters that highlighted his stage-trained presence. In (1974), he appeared as a militant figure in the thriller directed by , contributing to the film's ensemble of streetwise toughs amid its gang warfare narrative. Similarly, in Friday Foster (1975), Lange played Fancy Dexter, a charismatic club owner entangled in a conspiracy plot, showcasing his ability to blend charm with intensity in Arthur Marks' stylish adaptation of . These early appearances established Lange in genre cinema, where his performances added depth to urban underdog stories during Hollywood's exploitation era. He also had an appearance in the documentary (1973), capturing the Watts Summer Festival. Following his breakthrough on television, Lange transitioned to more varied supporting roles in independent and direct-to-video features, frequently embracing character parts that drew on his affable persona. His fame as Isaac Washington opened doors to cameo opportunities, such as playing himself in the comedy Bottoms Up (2006), where he judged a bartending contest in a chaotic tale of ambition and mishaps directed by Erik MacArthur. In Dorm Daze 2 (2006), he portrayed Celebrity Judge #2 in the ensemble screwball comedy set on a cruise ship, a nod to his iconic TV role while participating in the film's satirical take on college antics. Later indie projects like Gang of Roses (2003), where he appeared as Bartender #2 in Jean-Claude La Marre's Western about female outlaws, exemplified his shift toward ensemble casts in low-budget productions that prioritized narrative drive over spectacle. In the independent film (1989), he portrayed the titular Moor in a modern adaptation, also serving as director. In recent years, Lange has continued contributing to independent cinema with character-driven roles in thrillers and dramas. He played Ryan in the horror-comedy Blood Pageant (2021), a meta-film about a cursed beauty contest that blends with elements, directed by Diego Halloween. His portrayal of Jermiah Jackson (Pops) in Twelve (2024), a thriller involving a locked-house mystery, underscores his ongoing preference for grounded, paternal figures in contemporary indie fare. Overall, Lange's reflects a pattern of selective engagement in lower-budget projects, where he delivers reliable support through nuanced, often humorous characterizations.

Directing credits

Ted Lange began his directing career during his tenure on The Love Boat, helming 10 episodes between 1981 and 1985, including his debut "The Crew's Cruise" in 1981. His television directing portfolio expanded to include episodes of The New Mike Hammer in the 1980s. Later credits encompass two episodes of Love Boat: The Next Wave in 1999, as well as work on Moesha, Dharma & Greg, and Eve. In the 2010s, Lange directed extensively for sitcoms, including 12 episodes of Are We There Yet? and a combined 56 episodes across The First Family (23 episodes, 2012–2013) and Mr. Box Office (33 episodes, 2012–2013). In theater, Lange has directed several notable productions, often blending his skills as a . He wrote and directed Lady Patriot in 2025, an play at Theatre Row inspired by the true story of Civil War spy , featuring his former co-stars and . Earlier, he directed and starred in a stage adaptation of at the Cultural Center. Lange's film and short directing credits include the independent feature For Love of Amy (2009), an educational drama about , as well as Cody: An Evening with (2001). He also directed episodes of the TV series Players at the Poker Palace (2008). Over his career, Lange has amassed directing credits across more than 20 television series, emphasizing through lectures on the craft and as a mentee of acclaimed director . Many of his projects, such as Lady Patriot, integrate his writing, highlighting themes of resilience and .

References

  1. https://www.tvinsider.com/people/ted-lange/
  2. https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0486198/
  3. https://www.mercurynews.com/2023/10/27/african-american-shakes-and-love-boat-star-deliver-timely-death-of-a-salesman/
  4. https://www.celebritynetworth.com/richest-celebrities/actors/ted-lange-net-worth/
  5. https://www.osfashland.org/en/artist-biographies/acting-company/ted-lange.aspx
  6. http://www.castproductions.com/tedlange.html
  7. https://www.fandango.com/people/ted-lange-377775/biography
  8. https://www.thelist.com/1795775/whatever-happened-ted-lange-the-love-boat/
  9. https://www.aaespeakers.com/keynote-speakers/ted-lange
  10. https://t2conline.com/talking-with-love-boats-ted-lange-on-his-life-and-new-play/
  11. https://people.com/the-love-boat-stars-reunite-at-opening-of-off-broadway-play-11808616
  12. https://parade.com/news/love-boat-jill-whelan-fred-grandy-ted-lange-play
  13. https://www.encyclopedia.com/education/news-wires-white-papers-and-books/lange-ted-1947
  14. https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Lange-3492
  15. https://postnewsgroup.com/oakland-actor-director-michael-lange-65/
  16. https://www.nndb.com/people/777/000024705/
  17. https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Lange-3520
  18. https://www.closerweekly.com/posts/ted-lange-looks-back-on-the-love-boat-career-in-show-business-enjoy-the-ride/
  19. https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1988-10-07-ca-3629-story.html
  20. https://playbill.com/production/hair-biltmore-theatre-vault-0000013097
  21. https://www.sfchronicle.com/entertainment/article/Ted-Lange-sails-past-Love-Boat-2660236.php
  22. https://www.jstor.org/stable/1144751
  23. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0636775/
  24. https://www.metv.com/stories/ted-lange-loved-the-perks-that-came-along-with-the-love-boat
  25. https://people.com/love-boat-ted-lange-confronted-aaron-spelling-about-white-casts-prominence-8705559
  26. https://www.cnn.com/travel/the-love-boat-how-a-tv-show-transformed-cruise-industry
  27. https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/ted-lange-looks-back-love-180138757.html
  28. https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0486198/bio/
  29. https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1988-10-07-ca-3333-story.html
  30. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0094484/
  31. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0098038/
  32. https://www.themoviedb.org/person/1212804-ted-lange?language=en-US
  33. https://variety.com/1999/legit/reviews/the-piano-lesson-3-1200459714/
  34. https://pnmcfestival.org/speaker/ted-lange/
  35. https://jeffisfunny.com/2021/05/52-come-aboard-with-ted-lange/
  36. https://people.com/ted-lange-says-love-boat-led-to-sex-advice-column-with-jenna-jameson-8779452
  37. https://www.foxnews.com/entertainment/love-boat-star-shares-how-iconic-role-led-sex-advice-column-adult-film-star
  38. https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/ted-lange-explains-love-boat-160000578.html
  39. https://www.aol.com/ted-lange-explains-love-boat-160000829.html
  40. https://www.upi.com/Entertainment_News/2006/07/27/Love-Boats-Lange-heading-new-Fit-Club/35301154046064/
  41. https://www.ign.com/articles/2006/08/30/reality-tv-recapped-3
  42. https://www.tvguide.com/celebrities/ted-lange/credits/3000424041/
  43. https://deadline.com/2022/09/the-real-love-boat-cold-open-ted-lange-cameo-1235120647/
  44. https://www.closerweekly.com/posts/battle-of-the-network-stars-2017-cast-135567/
  45. https://www.mollieb.com/ted-lange-bio
  46. https://playbill.com/article/love-boat-stars-fred-grandy-ted-lange-jill-whelan-to-reunite-off-broadway-for-lady-patriot
  47. https://www.theatermania.com/shows/new-york-city-theater/off-broadway/lady-patriot_1800603/
  48. https://twi-ny.com/2025/09/11/lady-patriot-theatre-row-ted-lange/
  49. https://www.theatermania.com/news/interview-the-love-boats-ted-lange-fred-grandy-and-jill-whelan-set-sail-for-lady-patriot_1800587/
  50. https://amsterdamnews.com/news/2025/09/18/lady-patriot-is-funny-informative-and-incredibly-creative/
  51. http://www.theaterscene.net/plays/offbway-plays/lady-patriot/victor-gluck/
  52. https://dctheaterarts.org/2025/09/09/resonant-lessons-in-history-and-humanity-in-lady-patriot-at-nycs-theatre-row/
  53. https://www.digitaljournal.com/entertainment/ted-lange-of-the-love-boat-talks-about-lady-patriot-show/article
  54. https://nypost.com/2025/09/10/entertainment/the-love-boat-cast-reunites-for-ted-langes-off-broadway-play/
  55. https://ew.com/the-love-boat-crew-reunites-for-new-project-11808666
  56. https://www.imdb.com/name/nm4216058/
  57. https://turnerlange.wixsite.com/turnerlange
  58. https://www.lifeofdad.com/ted-lange-my-life-of-dad/
  59. https://www.famousbirthdays.com/people/ted-lange.html
  60. https://www.realitytvworld.com/realitytvdb/celebrity-fit-club/
  61. https://www.commonsensemedia.org/tv-reviews/celebrity-fit-club
  62. https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/ted-lange-talks-love-boat-1.3412346
  63. https://www.sagaftra.org/celebrities-and-voice-over-community-ante-screen-actors-guild-foundation-inaugural-poker-classic
  64. https://www.gettyimages.com/editorial-images/entertainment/event/the-4th-annual-sag-foundation-poker-classic-and-party-benefiting-the-don-lafontaine-voice-over-lab/508084051
  65. https://www.latimes.com/travel/la-tr-cruise-love-boat-star-walk-of-fame-20180511-story.html
  66. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0696606/fullcredits
  67. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0458438/fullcredits/
  68. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0339091/fullcredits/
  69. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0075529/fullcredits/
  70. https://www.fandango.com/people/ted-lange-377775/film-credits
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