Jill Whelan Reflects on Love, Lessons and Life After Three Marriages

For actress Jill Whelan, known for her role as Vicki Stubing on the iconic sitcom “The Love Boat,” finding lasting love took time and growth. Her journey through three marriages culminated in a joyful union with Jeff Knapple in 2017. Whelan emphasizes the importance of connection and respect in her relationship.

“We really get along so well and enjoy each other’s company. We respect each other deeply and share plenty of laughter. We feel incredibly fortunate,” Whelan shared in an interview.

Finding the Right Partner

Whelan, 58, acknowledges that both she and Knapple had prior marriages. Their experiences shaped their current relationship. “It took us a while to find the right person,” she explains. “We can spend endless hours together without needing anyone else around, and that simplicity is profoundly fulfilling.”

Lessons Learned from Past Relationships

Having been married twice before, Whelan carries valuable insights from her previous experiences. She highlights the importance of self-acceptance and genuine love in a partnership. “You’re not going to change someone. You must embrace them as they are,” she advises. “You also have to be authentic from the start; if someone doesn’t appreciate you for who you are, then it’s a never-ending performance that cannot be sustained.”

Reflecting on her single days, Whelan recalls, “I often told people I would rather be single and happy than in a relationship that left me feeling lonely.” This ideology served her well when she began dating Knapple, 68.

Walking into Love Authentically

As they navigated their relationship after divorces, Whelan and Knapple mutually committed to authenticity. “We both agreed to be ourselves from the very beginning. If either of us couldn’t appreciate that authenticity, then it simply wasn’t meant to be,” she stated. “At some point, the truth will come out, and life can get complicated. Being true to oneself makes it much easier to navigate those complexities.”

The Impact of Parenting

Whelan’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges, as she has reflected on the kind of example she sets for her children from previous marriages. “I made mistakes, and I often wondered what roadmap I was leaving my kids about love and relationships,” she shared.

Despite any past missteps, Whelan now believes her children are learning from her experience. “It may have taken longer than I expected, but they now see what a healthy relationship can look like. They adore my husband, and he feels the same about them,” she said. “It’s essential that we model our true selves in front of them; that’s the most valuable lesson they can learn.”

The Role of Family Support

Whelan attributes much of her success and stability to her strong family support, particularly her mother, Carol Garrett. She credits her mother with helping her navigate the challenges of growing up in the spotlight. “My mom was a wonderful anchor. She prioritized being a parent over being a ‘momager,’ which safeguarded my childhood,” Whelan explained.

Whelan continues to hold her mother in high regard: “At 84 years old, I still find myself a little intimidated by her. She has an undeniable authority in my life. For child stars, strong parental figures are critical in navigating the industry and maintaining a sense of normalcy.”

A Different Era of Fame

Looking back on her career, Whelan realizes the advantages of growing up when social media was not prevalent. “Experiencing puberty in front of millions of viewers has its drawbacks. Thankfully, we did not have the added pressure of social media during that time. Our privacy was somewhat protected, which is a stark contrast to today’s climate where every move of a celebrity is scrutinized,” she quipped.

The Love Boat Legacy

Whelan remains grateful to her co-stars from “The Love Boat” for the guidance they offered. The show, which aired from 1977 to 1987, is known for its captivating tales centered on love and comedy aboard the Pacific Princess. Initially met with skepticism, the series went on to enjoy nine successful seasons and several spin-off movies.

“The connections we shared were beautiful, and they educated me throughout the process. Gavin MacLeod and Bernie Kopell, seasoned veterans of the industry, provided invaluable lessons about professionalism and gratitude for the opportunity to work in this field,” Whelan reflected.

Enduring Lessons from the Industry

Whelan remembers how her experienced co-stars instilled foundational principles that have remained with her. “They taught us essential rules: Show up early, learn your lines, and execute your marks. These foundational aspects of our craft should never be overlooked,” she emphasized.

Today, the entertainment landscape is vastly different. Whelan notes a shift in aspirations, where fame is often the primary goal for many entering the industry, overshadowing the sheer artistry involved in acting. “It’s essential for us, as seasoned actors, to remember the craft is what truly matters. The art must always take precedence over the spotlight,” she concludes.