Book Review: This Is Your Captain Speaking

While my parents' generation most likely associates actor Gavin McLeod with his role as Murray on "The Mary Tyler Moore Show", to this child of the '80s he will always be Captain Stubing. I vividly recall spending Saturday nights watching "The Love Boat" and eagerly anticipating which guest stars would grace the ship with their presence (please, no Charo!) and what hijinks Gopher would get himself into each episode.

My childhood television memories made reading McLeod's memoir, This Is Your Captain Speaking, more enjoyable. McLeod relates tales of his childhood, of making a name for himself in theater before getting his big break in Hollywood, and of the television roles that made him a household name for multiple generations. 

I was surprised to learn that McLeod is a Christian, having come to Christ thanks to his then-ex-wife who he subsequently remarried. In the book he shares the ups and downs of his two marriages, his struggles with alcohol, and the development of his faith. He also shares a lot of humorous anecdotes from his days in show business, along with stories of his experiences as an ambassador for Princess Cruise Lines. 

It's rare to hear a celebrity so outspoken about their faith in God, and this was a refreshingly delightful, spiritual read. 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through theBookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”