Bernie Kopell had no issue seeing the bright side of things. As an actor, Kopell was no stranger to failure, having appeared in numerous sitcoms that ended prematurely. But rather than wallow in self-pity, Kopell seemed to find a silver lining in everything.

“I always get good things out of series,” Kopell said during an interview with The Pittsburgh Press. “A few years ago, I did Needles and Pins, which wasn’t very successful, but at least I acquired a wife through the show.”

While working on The Love Boat as Dr. Adam Bricker, Kopell not only found success but a partner. The actor connected with his co-star, Fred Grandy, better known as Gopher.

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“Through the show, I have gained a friend and a collaborator...We found that we both share a yen to do some writing. And we have begun working together. Already, we have written three segments for the series, and we are planning other things, including a feature film.”

For all of his rough patches and near-misses, Kopell seemed to be grateful for every little mistake in his life because he understood it was simply a step toward what he truly needed.

“And to think that a few years ago, I didn’t think I’d ever get going. I had to drive a cab and work as a stock boy to get by,” said the actor.