TV’s Most Beloved Cruise Ship Doctor Is Still Acting at 91: Can You Guess Who HE Is?

Bernie Kopell, the veteran actor who charmed audiences as the flirtatious Dr. Adam Bricker aboard the MS Pacific Princess in the hit ABC sitcom “The Love Boat,” has been spotted in a rare public appearance in his Los Angeles neighborhood. The 91-year-old actor, who found fame in the late 1970s in the popular Aaron Spelling-produced show, was photographed looking sprightly as he collected his mail and an Amazon package. Kopell’s iconic role as the cruise ship doctor was a defining part of “The Love Boat,” where he appeared in all 250 episodes during its successful nine-year run from 1977 to 1986, alongside an ensemble cast including Gavin MacLeod, Fred Grandy, and Ted Lange.
Kopell’s career extends far beyond his time on “The Love Boat,” with appearances in numerous other successful television shows throughout the 1960s and 70s, including “The Mary Tyler Moore Show,” “Bewitched,” “Kojak,” and “The Streets of San Francisco.” Even at the age of 91, the actor has shown few signs of slowing down, continuing to take on roles in television and movie productions, as well as an off-Broadway theater role in “Two Jews Talking” as recently as 2022. His recent small screen appearances include guest spots in “Grey’s Anatomy” and “The Lincoln Lawyer,” demonstrating his enduring passion for acting.
The recent sighting of Kopell marks a rare occasion for fans to catch a glimpse of the beloved actor, who remains active in his career. Last August, he joined fellow “Love Boat” cast members Fred Grandy, Ted Lange, and Jill Whelan for “The Love Boat Celebration at Sea” aboard the Enchanted Princess. This themed cruise offered fans a unique opportunity to sail to Canada and New England with the actors, participating in themed activities and Q&A panels. During one panel, Kopell shared anecdotes from the show, including his experiences with memorable guest stars like Debbie Reynolds, whom he described as always needing to be the center of attention, while also fondly recalling working with Eva Marie Saint and Shirley Jones.
Kopell’s personal life includes a marriage to his third wife, Catrina Honadle, 59, whom he wed in 1997. Together, they have two sons, Adam, 26, and Josh, 21. The enduring popularity of “The Love Boat” and Kopell’s memorable portrayal of Dr. Adam Bricker have cemented his place in television history. The show’s cast previously reunited in 2014 for a Princess Cruises event, highlighting the lasting camaraderie among the actors and the continued affection for the series.
At 91 years old, Bernie Kopell’s recent appearance underscores his continued vitality and connection to his celebrated past. His dedication to his craft, evidenced by his recent acting roles and participation in “Love Boat” reunions, demonstrates a remarkable career that has spanned decades. As the charming and flirtatious doctor on the Pacific Princess, Kopell brought joy to millions, and his ongoing activity in the entertainment industry is a testament to his enduring talent and spirit.