Ted Lange

Ted Lange – Life, Career, and Memorable Quotes

Discover the life and career of Ted Lange (born January 5, 1948), the American actor, director, and playwright best known as Isaac the bartender on The Love Boat. Learn about his early life, achievements, influences, and memorable lines.

Introduction

Theodore William “Ted” Lange III (born January 5, 1948) is an American actor, director, screenwriter, and playwright. He is best known for his iconic portrayal of Isaac Washington, the charming and witty bartender aboard the Pacific Princess in the classic television series The Love Boat (1977–1986).

While many remember him for that beloved television role, Lange’s career spans decades across stage, screen, and behind-the-scenes work. His versatility, creativity, and commitment to storytelling have made him a respected figure in entertainment.

Early Life and Family

Ted Lange was born on January 5, 1948, in Oakland, California.

He attended Oakland Technical High School, where he was active and involved — he served as class president and student body president.

Education & Training

After high school, Lange pursued drama and performing arts. He earned an Associate of Arts (AA) degree at Merritt College in Oakland, then continued his studies in drama at City College of San Francisco, where he was recognized as “Best Actor” by the campus’s Black Students Association.

He also received a scholarship to attend the University of Colorado Shakespearean Festival during summer, enriching his classical acting experience.

Later, he studied at the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London, refining his craft further in classical theater.

Career & Achievements

Early Roles & Theater Beginnings

Lange’s early work was rooted in theater, including local productions in Oakland, university performances, and participation in Shakespearean theatre companies.

His Broadway debut came in the musical Hair, which exposed him to larger audiences and expanded his skill set.

One of his first screen appearances was in the documentary film Wattstax (1973). Black Belt Jones (1974) and took on the role of Junior in the sitcom That’s My Mama (1974–1975).

Breakthrough: The Love Boat

In 1977, Lange was cast as Isaac Washington, the smooth, congenial bartender on The Love Boat. He would play this role across more than two hundred episodes from 1977 to 1986, turning Isaac into a beloved television figure.

During his time on The Love Boat, Lange also directed and wrote certain episodes—an early sign of the multi-hyphenate talent he would become.

Directing, Writing & Theater

Beyond acting, Lange has written and directed extensively. He penned plays such as George Washington’s Boy and Lemon Meringue Facade, among others.

He directed the film Othello (1989) in which he also starred. For Love of Amy.

In television, his directing credits include episodes of Moesha, Dharma & Greg, Eve, The First Family, Mr. Box Office, and Are We There Yet?

He also ventured into writing a relationship/advice column titled “Ask Isaac”, collaborating at one point with adult industry figure Jenna Jameson.

Later Work and Guest Appearances

After The Love Boat ended, Lange continued acting in films and guest roles on television. Appearances include shows such as Scrubs, Drake & Josh, The King of Queens, Psych, Boy Meets World, General Hospital, and more.

He also participated in the reality show Celebrity Fit Club (2006), losing 28 pounds during the show.

Over the years, Lange also remained connected to the Love Boat legacy by reprising Isaac in spin-offs and guest appearances.

Awards & Recognition

Lange’s contributions have been honored with awards including:

• NAACP Renaissance Man Theatre Award

• HAL (Heroes and Legends) Lifetime Achievement Award

• Paul Robeson Award

• Other local and theater recognitions

Historical Context & Influence

Ted Lange’s rise in the 1970s and 1980s paralleled a time when television was becoming more inclusive in its casting and narratives. As an African-American actor playing a warm, central role on a mainstream, widely distributed series, he contributed to representation in an era when roles for Black actors were more limited.

His decision to expand into directing and writing also mirrored broader shifts in Hollywood, where more actors were seeking creative control and branching into multiple roles behind the camera.

Moreover, his theatrical work often explores Black history, identity, and themes not frequently highlighted on TV, giving voice to narratives outside mainstream exposure.

Legacy and Influence

Ted Lange’s legacy is multi-faceted:

• Iconic Television Presence: Isaac Washington remains one of classic TV’s memorable supporting characters, and Lange’s performance continues to be celebrated.

• Versatility Across Disciplines: His seamless movement among acting, directing, writing, and theater underscores the value of creative adaptability.

• Champion of Theatrical Narratives: Through his plays and dramatic works—often centering on historical or underrepresented stories—he has enriched American theater.

• Mentorship & Leadership: Lange’s work behind the camera and his longevity in the industry serve as an example to younger artists about sustaining a career in entertainment.

• Bridging Genres & Eras: While best known for 1970s/80s TV, he continues to remain relevant via guest roles, directing, and theatrical projects.

Personality, Strengths & Artistic Style

Warmth, Humility & Presence

Lange’s screen persona often radiates friendliness, approachability, and charm—qualities that made Isaac Washington so beloved. Off-screen, he is described as warm, grounded, and passionate about storytelling.

Storytelling Ambition

He doesn’t confine himself to one medium. His writings and plays show a strong desire to tell rich, sometimes provocative, stories—particularly those exploring Black American history and identity.

Craftsmanship & Continuous Growth

Instead of resting on his Love Boat fame, he pursued formal training (e.g. RADA), transitioned into directing and writing, and remained active over decades. That drive for growth defines much of his career.

Navigating Multiple Roles

Lange’s skill in switching hats—actor, director, playwright—reveals a holistic understanding of dramatic arts. As a director, his experience as an actor helps him communicate nuance; as a writer, his acting sensibilities inform character and dialogue.

Famous Quotes of Ted Lange

While not as quotably prolific as some writers or philosophers, Lange has offered insight into his craft, career, and perspectives. Below are a few illustrative quotes:

“Most directors can’t act, and the meanest ones are failed actors.”

“I started out to be an actor. Out of necessity, I found myself becoming a director, writer and screenplay writer to stay involved in the industry and in the exploration of the art.”

“By the end of the first day, I’m not ‘Love Boat’ bartender Isaac Washington anymore. I’m the director and I’ve got them.”

“The duty of the Artist is to find his muse then let her rip.”

These remarks reflect his philosophy of lifelong involvement in art, creative agency, and the fluid identity between performer and creator.

Lessons from Ted Lange’s Career

1. Embrace a Signature Role, But Don’t Be Limited By It
   While Isaac was central to his fame, Lange used that platform to expand into directing and playwriting, refusing to be typecast forever.

2. Pursue Continual Learning
   From formal training at RADA to writing and directing, Lange shows that growth doesn’t stop after success.

3. Diversify Creativity
   By working across media—stage, television, film, writing—he built resilience in his career.

4. Tell Untold Stories
   His theatrical work often centers on narratives underrepresented in mainstream culture—highlighting the importance of creative voices that expand our understanding.

5. Balance Popular & Passion Projects
   Lange maintained visibility in mainstream entertainment while dedicating time to personal, meaningful works in theater and writing.

Conclusion

Ted Lange remains a respected and multifaceted figure in American entertainment. Though many will always remember him as Isaac Washington on The Love Boat, his contributions go far beyond one role. He has cultivated a distinguished career as a director, playwright, actor, and storyteller—ever evolving, ever curious.

His journey teaches us about the importance of versatility, persistence, and expanding one’s creative horizons beyond what one is known for. Lange’s legacy is not merely the character he played—but the many stories and roles he created, directed, and championed.