Ted Lange, best known for his role as Isaac Washington on The Love Boat, shared insights into his career during a recent podcast appearance. He discussed his experiences writing a sex and advice column in a men's magazine, focusing on promoting safe sex and humor. Additionally, Lange revealed challenges he faced as a Black actor in Hollywood, particularly regarding representation and support from his co-stars.

The Art of Advice with a Twist

Lange's venture into writing advice was marked by a unique approach that combined practicality with wit. His column aimed to engage young male readers while ensuring they understood the importance of protected sex. This blend of education and entertainment set his work apart from traditional advice columns.

During his time writing for FHM magazine, Lange prioritized two elements: safety and laughter. As a former bartender character on The Love Boat, he drew inspiration from his role, imagining patrons seeking counsel. The magazine capitalized on this persona, featuring Lange alongside models like Jenna Jameson and later Beth Ostrosky. Photo shoots often depicted him in a sailor cap and pipe, creating a playful yet authoritative image. Lange emphasized that if he could incorporate both condoms and humor into his responses, he considered it a success. This approach not only made the advice memorable but also encouraged responsible behavior among readers.

Championing Equality Behind the Scenes

Beyond his public roles, Lange encountered significant challenges related to racial representation in Hollywood. During his tenure on The Love Boat, certain producers were reluctant to write love stories for his character, reflecting broader issues of inequality in the industry. Despite these obstacles, Lange found strong allies in his co-stars Bernie Kopell, Fred Grandy, Scatman Crothers, and Vernee Watson, who wrote love stories for him, demonstrating solidarity and respect.

One of Lange's most supportive colleagues was Gavin MacLeod, whom he described as an exceptional person. MacLeod stood up for Lange during challenging times, advocating for equal treatment and representation. Lange highlighted moments where producers would exclude his character from pivotal scenes, justifying it based on his role as a bartender. However, Lange argued that all characters, regardless of their professions, deserved fair inclusion. These experiences underscored the importance of allyship and the ongoing struggle for equality in the entertainment industry. Through these challenges, Lange's resilience and the support of his co-stars became a testament to the power of unity and advocacy.