With the recent passing of veteran actor Gavin MacLeod, many are fondly recalling his memorable roles as television newswriter Murray Slaughter on The Mary Tyler Moore Show and as the charming Captain Merrill Stubing on ABC’s The Love Boat.
MacLeod’s career nearly took a very different path when he auditioned for a role in Norman Lear’s groundbreaking series All in the Family. Reflecting on that missed opportunity, MacLeod expressed relief that he wasn’t cast, a decision that ultimately led him to the iconic roles he is celebrated for today.
Tributes Pour In for a Beloved Star
MacLeod’s colleagues and friends from the entertainment industry have been sharing their heartfelt memories and tributes. Ed Asner, his co-star on The Mary Tyler Moore Show, expressed his sorrow on Twitter, writing, “My heart is broken. Gavin was my brother, my partner in crime (and food) and my comic conspirator. I will see you in a bit, Gavin. Tell the gang I will see them in a bit. Betty! It’s just you and me now.”
Maureen McCormick, known for her role on The Brady Bunch, also paid tribute, tweeting, “Rest In Peace my dear friend Gavin Macleod. Thank you for all the special and beautiful heart-filled conversations about life. I will always treasure the time I was lucky enough to spend with you. Love you #GavinMacleod.”
Marie Osmond shared her memories as well, saying, “It seems like I just wished you a happy 90th birthday #GavinMacLeod, and now you have set sail on to a new adventure. So many fun memories through the years!!! Love you with all my heart, thank you for the light you brought to others #CaptainStubing #LoveBoat.”
The Role He Was Glad to Lose
MacLeod once auditioned for the role of Archie Bunker in All in the Family. However, the character’s blatant bigotry didn’t sit well with him. Despite being a strong contender, MacLeod was ultimately passed over in favor of Carroll O’Connor, a decision he welcomed with open arms.
“I didn’t feel right for the part,” he told the Los Angeles Times in 2013. “I don’t like bigotry in any way, shape, or form. Norman Lear’s assistant called and said, ‘Gavin, we made a decision. We are going to go with Carroll.’ I was so happy. I knew someday my time would come.”
Finding His Place in Television History
MacLeod’s optimism about his career proved to be well-founded. In 1970, he was cast as Murray Slaughter on The Mary Tyler Moore Show. Recalling the casting process, MacLeod told the Television Academy Foundation, “They sent me two scripts, the pilot and ‘Rhoda’s Mother.’”
Interestingly, MacLeod was initially considered for the role of Lou Grant. “What a great part, but I wouldn’t believe myself being her boss,” he said. Instead, he found his perfect fit as newsman Murray Slaughter, a role that endeared him to audiences.
When The Mary Tyler Moore Show ended in 1977, MacLeod transitioned seamlessly into his next iconic role on The Love Boat, playing Captain Merrill Stubing. His portrayal of the affable captain won him fans worldwide, and in 1986, a year before The Love Boat concluded, he became a global ambassador for Princess Cruises, further cementing his legacy.
A Lasting Legacy
Gavin MacLeod’s journey in television is a testament to his talent, versatility, and enduring charm. From nearly landing a controversial role in All in the Family to becoming a beloved figure on two iconic television shows, his career is a celebration of resilience and the joy of finding one’s true calling. As we remember MacLeod, we celebrate not just the characters he portrayed, but the warmth and kindness he brought to everyone who had the pleasure of working with him. His legacy will continue to sail on, much like the love boat he famously captained.
