Gavin McLeod had many roles over the course of his career. And one of the Love Boat actor’s most iconic roles was Captain Merril Stubbing. As with many from his time, we must also say goodbye to the former ‘captain.’
Gavin McLeod Passes Away at 90 Years Old
The Love Boat actor got his first ‘breakthrough’ role as Murray Slaughter on The Mary Tyler Moore Show. As the head writer of the fictional TV station, Gavin McLeod appeared in every episode of the series. He starred in movies alongside Bing Crosby, but it was television that made his career.
Just a few years after The Mary Tyler Moor Show, the Love Boat actor would star in his most famous role. In his role as Captain Stubbing, Gavin Mcleod appeared in all 250 episodes. After his epic role in the show, the actor went on to appear in a few minor roles on TV shows and movies. Despite how small each role was, those who grew up watching him recognized the actor immediately. He appeared a handful of times in the original Hawaii Five-O and guest-starred on My Favorite Martian. He also had minor roles in Murder, She Wrote, Jag, and That 70’s Show.
After his roles in movies, he did a few collaborations with Princess Cruises. If you’ve played a captain on TV, why not be at a few ceremonial boat launches?
Gavin McLeod’s nephew, Mark See, confirmed the actor’s death. The actor had been in and out of hospitals recently. But none of his health issues were COVID-related. Passing at 90 years old, the actor leaves behind his wife Patti and his four children from his first marriage.
