Wilford Lloyd “Bud” Baumes, who developed ABC’s long-running series The Love Boat and executive produced TV’s Wonder Woman, has died. He was 86. Mihovk-Rosenacker Funeral Homes in Cincinnati said he died June 28 but did not provide a cause of death.
Born on November 24, 1939, Baumes served in the U.S. Navy before launching a career in show business in the early 1970s. He worked as a writer and/or producer on some TV movies before serving as an associate to the executive producer of CBS’ 1972-73 interfaith romance sitcom Bridget Loves Bernie. Baumes continued to work on telefilms before becoming an executive producer on the superhero series Wonder Woman.
Starring Lynda Cater as the golden lasso-wielding DC Comics hero and Lyle Waggoner as Steve Trevor, the campy series debut on ABC in late 1976 and would move to CBS for its final two seasons.
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Meanwhile, Baumes was developing what would become a TV staple.
Patterned after ABC’s bawdy anthology comedy Love, American Style, The Love Boat was adapted from a cruise hostess’ memoir and debuted in September 1977. It followed the crew of a cruise ship as they interacted with passengers played by guest stars including many famous faces. Executive produced by Aaron Spelling, the show was a staple in the year-end primetime Top 20 in the three-network universe during its nine-year run, peaking at No. 5 in 1980-81. It also led to a number of TV movies and specials.
Baumes is survived by his nephew, Lloyd “Ross” Baumes; niece, Lee Ann Baumes; and their children and grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in his name to the Alzheimer’s Association.