Iconic Women Who Made Love Boat a Classic

By Sophia Maddox | October 9, 2023

Priscilla Barnes Chased Gopher Across the High Seas

On the high seas of The Love Boat, some of the biggest and brightest stars in Hollywood history came together to create unforgettable moments of drama, romance, and adventure. From the iconic cast of Charlie's Angels to the sultry charms of Susan Anton, Barbi Benton, and Heather Thomas, these guest stars lit up the screen with their irresistible presence, creating a sense of magic and wonder that kept audiences coming back for more. With their unforgettable performances and natural charisma, these guest stars proved themselves to be true masters of their craft, capable of elevating even the most outlandish of storylines to new heights of excitement and emotion.

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(getty images)

Priscilla Barnes' turn as Helga Bjorsson in a two-hour Love Boat episode is a sight to behold. Barnes, with her angular features and coifed blonde hair, is the perfect embodiment of the glamorous and calculating socialite. Her target? None other than Gopher, played by Fred Grandy. Despite Gopher's initial reluctance to leave the ship, Helga's alluring charm and grand gestures are hard to resist. As the two embark on a whirlwind romance, it becomes clear that Helga is not just after a fling, but something more permanent. Will Gopher give in to her charms and leave the Love Boat behind? Only time will tell in this high-stakes game of love and power.

Jessica Walter Goes Country


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(ABC)

Jessica Walter was a true fixture of The Love Boat, a versatile actor who brought an unmistakable sense of class and sophistication to every role she played. Over the course of six appearances on the show, Walter proved herself to be a true chameleon, taking on a wide range of characters with equal skill and nuance. She started off strong, playing Captain Stubing's high school flame in a turn that showcased her natural charisma and charm. From there, she only grew more formidable, playing a widowed mother who finds love with her child's teacher, a bitter niece who feels wronged by her bankrupted father, and a woman who suspects her father is sinking into dementia. But it was her turn as a southern-fried country crooner that truly set Walter apart, a performance that was both hilarious and poignant in equal measure.

Through it all, Walter proved herself to be one of the show's true treasures, a consummate professional who could hold her own against any co-star. Her contributions to The Love Boat are immeasurable, and her legacy as one of the show's greats will endure for generations to come.