Once a household name as the glamorous Ginger on "Gilligan's Island," Tina Louise has traded tropical island life for the bustling charm of Manhattan. Now, she calls the Upper East Side home, and her luxurious high-rise offers breathtaking views that she cherishes. “There’s something magical about the cityscape from my windows,” she shares, reflecting on her new chapter. "It's a far cry from that island, but it's just as beautiful in its own way."
For Tina, life in New York is all about balance and joy. She maintains her health with daily walks, indulges in quality time with her grandchildren by reading them stories, and carefully selects projects that truly resonate with her. Recently, she revisited her past by recording an audiobook version of her 1997 memoir, Sunday. This deeply personal work delves into her often-lonely childhood, spent moving between boarding schools. "I didn't know what home felt like," Tina reveals. "I was always on the move, never staying in one place long enough to feel rooted. That's why I believe so strongly that if you're going to bring a child into this world, you should be ready to give them love and stability."
Tina's journey to stardom began when she escaped the confines of a less-than-ideal boarding school. "I saw a friend performing in a play, and it changed everything for me," she recalls. "I told my mom I wanted to study acting, and she supported me. I ended up at the legendary Neighborhood Playhouse in New York City, where I honed my craft." It wasn't long before her talent caught the attention of Broadway producers, leading to her role in Fade Out — Fade In alongside Carol Burnett and Jack Cassidy. That's when the life-changing opportunity of joining "Gilligan's Island" came knocking.
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When asked about her iconic role as Ginger, Tina lights up. "A CBS casting director approached me about playing a character inspired by Lucille Ball and Marilyn Monroe," she reminisces. "I said yes because I admired those women deeply. Marilyn and I even shared similar upbringings, which made me feel connected to the role." As the last surviving member of the beloved cast, Tina holds dear the memories of her co-stars. "Alan Hale Jr., who played The Skipper, was such a sweetheart," she says fondly. "Jim Backus, aka Thurston Howell III, had us laughing endlessly. He'd share stories from his psychiatry sessions. And Natalie Schafer, the ever-gracious Mrs. Howell, was a true delight."
Among the cherished traditions Tina carries forward is Dawn Wells' sweet potato soufflé recipe, passed down to her. "Every Thanksgiving, my grandchildren and I recreate it," she smiles. "They love adding the marshmallows—it’s become our little family ritual."
A Life Filled with Love and Legacy
Tina's family life is as rich and fulfilling as her career. Her daughter, novelist Caprice Crane, born in 1970, remains one of her greatest joys. "Raising Caprice on my own allowed me to give her the childhood I never had," Tina reflects. "We celebrated every holiday together—Easter egg hunts, Christmas Eve parties with all her friends. Those are memories I treasure." Now, as a proud grandmother to twins Kingston and Clementine, Tina continues to nurture family bonds. "Even though they live in L.A., I still find ways to connect," she says. "Reading bedtime stories over the phone keeps us close."
Looking back on her life, Tina feels immense gratitude. "Despite the challenges, I've been incredibly lucky," she acknowledges. "Each job I've done has brought its own rewards, but nothing compares to being a mother and grandmother. My daughter often reminds me to take care of myself so I can be around for many more years. And you know what? That's exactly what I plan to do."
