Yes, Don Johnson is set to star in a new series described as a "Love Boat" series, titled Doctor Odyssey. However, he was not part of the cast of the original The Love Boat television series that aired from 1977 to 1987.
Don Johnson's Role in a New "Love Boat" Series
Don Johnson is confirmed to lead the cast of Doctor Odyssey, a new series for which he will play the titular character. This series is explicitly described as a "Love Boat" series, indicating it will likely carry themes and a premise similar to its iconic predecessor, centered around a luxury cruise ship and the adventures of its crew and passengers. Johnson will portray the ship's doctor, whose responsibilities extend beyond medical care to managing the ship's operations and the diverse array of guests.
This new venture marks a contemporary revival of the beloved cruise-ship drama genre, with a fresh cast and updated storylines for a modern audience.
The Original The Love Boat Series
The Love Boat was a popular American television series that aired on ABC from 1977 to 1987. The show followed the adventures of the crew and passengers of the luxury cruise ship, the Pacific Princess, as they embarked on romantic and comedic escapades. Each episode typically featured a standalone story with various guest stars, focusing on themes of love, friendship, and personal discovery.
The main cast of the original series included:
- Gavin MacLeod as Captain Merrill Stubing
- Bernie Kopell as Dr. Adam Bricker
- Fred Grandy as Burl "Gopher" Smith
- Ted Lange as Isaac Washington
- Lauren Tewes as Julie McCoy
Don Johnson was not a recurring cast member or a prominent guest star in the original The Love Boat series during its decade-long run. His association with the "Love Boat" concept is specific to the upcoming Doctor Odyssey.
Comparing "Love Boat" Series: Original vs. New
To clarify the distinction, here's a brief comparison:
| Feature | The Love Boat (Original) | Doctor Odyssey (New) |
|---|---|---|
| Lead Star | Gavin MacLeod (Captain Stubing) | Don Johnson (Doctor Odyssey) |
| Series Type | Romantic Comedy, Anthology Series | Described as a "Love Boat" series |
| First Aired | 1977 | Upcoming (Contemporary) |
| Network | ABC | Expected to air on a major network or streaming service |
| Focus | Passengers' romantic escapades, crew's daily lives | Don Johnson's character managing ship operations and guests |
This highlights that while Doctor Odyssey draws inspiration from the "Love Boat" legacy, it is a distinct new production starring Don Johnson.
