Ep 21. Taking Sides/A Friendly Little Game/Going by the Book

Taking Sides/A Friendly Little Game/Going by the Book is the 21st episode of the first season of the beloved television series, The Love Boat. The episode centers around three separate storylines that take place aboard the Pacific Princess cruise ship.

In the first storyline, Taking Sides, the crew must deal with the aftermath of a feud between two families who are both onboard the ship. Capt. Stubing, Doc, and Gopher all find themselves caught in the middle of the dispute, and they must decide which side to take. Meanwhile, Julie attempts to play peacemaker between the two families and tries to ensure that their feud does not ruin their vacation.

In the second storyline, A Friendly Little Game, a friendly game of poker among the male passengers quickly turns into a high-stakes game with serious consequences. When the winner of the game, a wealthy businessman, decides to use his winnings to make a pass at a fellow passenger, the woman's husband becomes jealous and confronts him. The situation quickly escalates, and it's up to the crew to diffuse the tension before something serious happens.

In the third and final storyline, Going by the Book, a young couple onboard the ship find themselves in a difficult situation when they discover they are pregnant. The couple is not married and is therefore forced to deal with the judgment of both the crew and the other passengers. The situation puts a strain on their relationship, and they must decide whether to break up or try to make things work.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to the classic mix of humor, drama, and romance that made The Love Boat such a beloved series among audiences. The show's talented cast of actors, including Gavin MacLeod, Lauren Tewes, Bernie Kopell, and Fred Grandy, all deliver standout performances that keep the audience engaged and invested in the characters' stories.

Overall, Taking Sides/A Friendly Little Game/Going by the Book is a delightful episode of The Love Boat that showcases the series' unique blend of comedy, drama, and romance. With its memorable characters and engaging storylines, it's no wonder that The Love Boat remains a beloved television classic even decades after its initial run.