“Gilligan’s Island” is an iconic American television sitcom that aired from 1964 to 1967. The show featured a group of seven characters, stranded on an uninhabited island after their boat, the S.S. Minnow, was caught in a storm. The amusing interactions among the characters and their ingenious (albeit often unsuccessful) attempts at escaping the island made it a beloved show that is still fondly remembered today.
The only remaining living main cast member of “Gilligan’s Island” is Tina Louise, who portrayed the glamorous movie star, Ginger Grant. Born in 1934, Tina Louise has had a long and diverse acting career, with roles on stage, in film, and on television, though her role on “Gilligan’s Island” is arguably her most iconic.
Here is a rundown of the main cast members and their status as of 2021:
- Bob Denver (Gilligan) – The titular character of the show, Gilligan, was played by Bob Denver. He passed away in 2005 due to complications from cancer.
- Alan Hale Jr. (The Skipper, Jonas Grumby) – The Skipper, whose real name on the show was Jonas Grumby, was played by Alan Hale Jr. He passed away in 1990 from respiratory failure due to cancer.
- Jim Backus (Thurston Howell III) – Jim Backus portrayed the millionaire Thurston Howell III on the show. He passed away in 1989 from pneumonia.
- Natalie Schafer (Eunice ‘Lovey’ Wentworth Howell) – Natalie Schafer played Lovey Howell, Thurston’s wife. She passed away in 1991 from liver cancer.
- Russell Johnson (Professor Roy Hinkley) – Russell Johnson portrayed the intelligent and resourceful Professor. He passed away in 2014 from kidney failure.
- Dawn Wells (Mary Ann Summers) – Dawn Wells played the wholesome farm girl, Mary Ann Summers. She passed away in 2020 due to complications related to COVID-19.
- Tina Louise (Ginger Grant) – Tina Louise portrayed the Hollywood star, Ginger Grant. As of September 2021, she is still alive.
It’s important to note that “Gilligan’s Island” also featured numerous guest stars throughout its three seasons, and the status of these actors can vary.
“Gilligan’s Island” continues to be enjoyed by fans old and new, thanks in large part to the talented cast who brought the characters to life. Although most of the cast members have passed away, their memory lives on through the timeless appeal of this classic television sitcom. For the most current information, please check the latest updates online.