Patrick Labyorteaux recalls tragic ‘Love Boat’ experience

Patrick Labyorteaux is reflecting on a devastating incident he witnessed while filming the classic TV series The Love Boat, describing it as “one of the worst experiences” of his acting career.

During a recent episode of his podcast, The Patrick LabyorSheaux, the former child star recalled working on his second appearance on the beloved ABC drama when tragedy struck behind the scenes. 

Labyorteaux said he had been watching a crew member operate a rear projection unit when the man was suddenly electrocuted.

According to People, the actor explained that he initially believed the incident was part of the production before realizing it was a real emergency. 

Although he was later told the crew member had survived, he eventually learned the man had died following the accident. 

Moreover, Labyorteaux called the incident the most traumatic experience he had ever faced on a television set.

Labyorteaux, who later became widely known for his role on Little House on the Prairie, also admitted he was unhappy with his own performance in the episode, joking about his awkward dancing and appearance on screen.

As per the outlet, the Love Boat aired from 1977 to 1986 and became famous for its rotating lineup of celebrity guest stars and romantic storylines aboard the Pacific Princess cruise ship.