Wilford Lloyd Baumes Dies: ‘Wonder Woman’ TV Producer Who Developed ‘The Love Boat’ Was 86

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.

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.