Bernie Kopell and The Love Boat: Titanic-esque taunts and tearful kisses

Critics said the show would fail, but Bernie Kopell tells the story of The Love Boat’s true success and friendship.

Bernie Kopell and old memories

Do you remember those old shows that touched your heart? Bernie Kopell, now 92 years old, still smiles when he remembers the days of The Love Boat.

Recently, at a Princess Cruises event, he revealed some secrets that few fans would know. He says the show’s launch was so difficult that no one imagined it would become such a huge hit.

When critics taunted

You won’t believe it, but the show had to shoot three pilot episodes to get off the ground. The situation didn’t end there. Bernie explained that the initial reviews were very poor.

One critic from the LA Times even wrote, “This show will sink like the Titanic.” Imagine the entire team’s reaction to such a big deal!

But today, even years later, fans from all over the world, even Germany, send letters. This is a true victory.

Waiting for the Role and That Phone Call

For Bernie, landing the role of Dr. Adam Bricker was nothing short of a dream, but it wasn’t easy either. After auditioning, he had to wait for months. He would call his agent, asking, “Any news?”

And then the day came when the agent called and said, “You got the role!” Bernie’s joy knew no bounds.

The Funny Story Behind the Name

The story of how Dr. Bricker came to be named is quite interesting. Bernie says the writers decided in late-night meetings that since the character chases girls and is a bit of a mischievous character, his name should be something like that.

Initially, ‘Pricker’ was considered, but then the P was changed to a B, and he became ‘Bricker.’ Bernie still laughs about it today.

Reaction from Real Doctors

The funniest thing is that real doctors come up to Bernie on cruises and say, “You take so much care of your patients, you’re so competent.”

To this, Bernie laughs and replies, “Brother, it’s all written in the script, I just have to be like that!”

A Family-Like Bond

Even today, his relationship with Fred Grandy, Ted Lange, Lauren Tewes, and Jill Whelan is very deep.

He says the cast has become not just co-stars, but his “second family.” Reliving old memories and connecting with fans is just as special to him today.