Hannah Waddingham Revives 'The Love Boat' Magic in New Princess Cruises Ads

Dive into Nostalgia: Hannah Waddingham and the Revival of 'The Love Boat'

The enchanting world of cruising gets a delightful refresh with Princess Cruises' latest global advertisement campaign titled, 'Love Boat by Hannah.' This vibrant campaign features the talented Emmy-winning actress and renowned musical theater star, Hannah Waddingham, who is best known for her role in the beloved series Ted Lasso. In this campaign, she reimagines one of television's most recognizable theme songs, offering a modern take while preserving the iconic essence of The Love Boat.

Originally aired on ABC from 1977 to 1986, The Love Boat became a cherished pop culture classic, combining themes of romance and adventure, and its catchy tune has resonated across generations. Waddingham masterfully revives this nostalgia with her captivating voice, bringing new life to the show’s theme. The campaign, crafted with precision and flair by acclaimed director Dave Laden of Hungry Man, showcases Waddingham’s vivacious personality as she indulges in the lavish lifestyle aboard a Princess Cruise.

From sipping artisanal cocktails to lounging by the pool and enjoying gourmet meals, Waddingham’s journey on the cruise is not just a showcase of leisure—it’s a profound tribute to the joyous experiences that cruising offers. Each scene seamlessly blends humor and elegance, inviting viewers to relish every moment aboard a Princess cruise.

In recording her rendition of the beloved theme at the renowned Criteria Recording Studios in Miami—a site noted for hosting illustrious artists like ABBA and Bob Marley—Waddingham captures the musical spirit of the original while adding her signature flair. Her version of the theme not only revitalizes the song but also enhances its legacy, making it relatable and infectious to today’s audience.

John Padgett, president of Princess Cruises, expressed his enthusiasm for Waddingham's involvement, stating, "Hannah brings something truly special to one of the most recognizable theme songs in television history and our brand anthem. Her tribute beautifully captures the elegance and spirit of adventure defining the Princess Cruises experience."

The campaign is designed to resonate with a wide array of audiences, from seasoned cruisers to those contemplating their first voyage. It showcases an overarching theme of spaciousness and adventure, echoing the excitement of setting sail into new horizons.

The rollout of 'Love Boat by Hannah' will take the form of various ad spots—60, 30, 15, and 6 seconds—in the U.S., U.K., Canada, and Australia, encompassing diverse platforms including connected televisions, digital ads, and social media channels. The flagship 60-second spot will make a notable appearance in U.S. cinemas before highly anticipated films like Wicked and Gladiator 2, allowing a wide audience to experience Waddingham’s electrifying performance.

JP Gomez, Creative Director at Terri Sandy—Princess Cruises' agency of record—commented on Waddingham’s impact, saying, "Her luminous presence and humor injected creativity into every aspect, turning this nostalgic concept into a beautiful and modern celebration of elegance aboard the Sun Princess."

Waddingham’s role isn’t merely tied to the ad; she has also been honored as the Godmother of Princess Cruises’ newest flagship, the Sun Princess, a title that connects her to a prestigious lineage of iconic women such as Audrey Hepburn and Diana, Princess of Wales. This accolade not only signifies her importance within the brand but also upholds Princess Cruises' tradition of celebrating extraordinary women.

In summary, the 'Love Boat by Hannah' campaign promises to enchant audiences while rekindling fond memories associated with the beloved show. Whether it’s thrilling adventures, sumptuous dining, or sparkling entertainment, Princess Cruises invites you to rediscover the magic of cruising with Waddingham at the helm. For more information about Princess Cruises, enthusiastic travelers can connect with a travel advisor or visit www.princess.com.