# Ted Lange: From Love Boat Bartender to Theater Revolutionary

At 77, Ted Lange’s story transcends his iconic role as Isaac Washington, the smooth-talking bartender on *The Love Boat*. Behind the infectious smile and finger-pointing charm lies a Shakespearean-trained actor who penned 25 plays, directed groundbreaking productions, and battled systemic racism in Hollywood. From hidden set tensions to modern innovations, Lange’s journey is one of resilience and reinvention.

Born on January 5, 1948, in Oakland, California, Lange grew up in a theatrical family. His parents, Geraldine Dean and Theodore William Jr., immersed him in showbiz.

But young Ted was no angel—a classroom troublemaker whose teacher punished him by forcing him into a school play. That “detention” ignited his passion. He excelled academically, serving as class president and student body president, earning an associate degree from Merritt College and studying drama at San Francisco City College.

His training at UC Berkeley honed his Shakespearean skills, far removed from sitcom stereotypes. Lange made his Broadway debut in *Hair* and starred in the one-man show *Behind the Mask: An Evening with Paul Laurence Dunbar*. By 1973, he appeared in the documentary *Brums*, followed by karate flick *Black Belt Jones*. In 1977, he landed *The Love Boat* as Isaac Washington, serving drinks to stars like Charo and a young Tom Hanks.

Producers nearly passed on him, deeming him “too theatrical” for TV. But Lange’s charisma saved the show. For nine seasons, he delivered iconic lines and advice, becoming a household name. Yet, behind the scenes, racism simmered. A producer refused love stories for Isaac, citing his race, while white characters romanced freely. Castmates intervened, writing plots for him. Lange recalled, “We all loved each other… We really had a wonderful time.”

Incidents highlighted the era’s biases. A guest star mistook Lange for an extra and refused to shake his hand, only to be shocked by his starring role. In a playful rebellion, Lange kissed co-star Diane Carroll 15 times in one scene, risking controversy over interracial displays on TV.

Personal struggles compounded the pressure. Married to actress Cheryl Thompson in 1978, they had sons Theodore IV (“T-Bone”) and Turner Wallace (“Turner Burner”). The marriage crumbled after 11 years amid Hollywood stresses. Lange remained single for 12 years before marrying Mario Lee in 2001—a union that endures.

While *The Love Boat* defined him, Lange built a theater empire. He wrote 25 plays, tackling raw issues like racism and Black Lives Matter in works like *Blues in My Coffee*. Directing dozens of productions, he launched youth programs, scholarships, and community outreach, launching careers despite criticism for his bold style.

In 2025, at 77, Lange thrives. He’s directing *First Lady Patriot* at Theater Row in New York City through September 20. His production company, Five for the Show, blends traditional theater with technology and social media, infusing African American experiences into modern narratives. With a net worth around $2 million, Lange proves versatility pays off.

From Oakland’s class clown to Berkeley scholar, TV bartender to playwright, Lange didn’t just survive Hollywood—he transformed it. His legacy? A reminder that true stars rewrite their scripts.