The Love Boat's New Voice: Everything To Know About Hannah Waddingham's Iconic Commercial Serenade

The iconic theme song of The Love Boat has a powerful new voice, and it belongs to one of television’s most celebrated stars: Hannah Waddingham. As of late 2024 and continuing into the current 2025 season, the Emmy-winning actress and musical theater powerhouse is the face and voice of Princess Cruises’ massive new global advertising campaign, "Love Boat by Hannah." This fresh, modern rendition of the classic tune has captivated audiences, blending the nostalgia of the original television series with Waddingham’s signature vocal gravitas, ensuring the cruise line's legacy remains relevant for a new generation of travelers.

The decision to feature Waddingham, known to millions as the formidable yet charming Rebecca Welton on *Ted Lasso*, marks a significant moment for the brand, capitalizing on her widespread popularity and undeniable talent as a singer. The campaign, which launched globally on November 22, 2024, pays tribute to the original show that helped make Princess Cruises a household name while introducing a contemporary twist to the famous "Love Boat Theme." This article delves into the full biography of the star, the details of the viral commercial, and the fascinating history of the song she has so brilliantly reimagined.

Hannah Waddingham: Complete Biography and Career Profile

Hannah Waddingham is a highly accomplished English actress, singer, and television presenter with a career spanning over two decades in musical theatre, film, and television. Born in London, her background in performance is deeply rooted in the West End, providing her with the powerhouse vocals that make her rendition of the *Love Boat* theme so memorable.

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• Full Name: Hannah Waddingham
• Date of Birth: July 28, 1974
• Place of Birth: Wandsworth, London, England
• Nationality: British
• Height: 5 ft 11 in (180 cm)
• Notable TV Roles: Rebecca Welton in *Ted Lasso* (2020–2023), Septa Unella in *Game of Thrones* (2015–2016), and The Lady of the Lake in *Spamalot* (2006).
• Major Awards: Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series (for *Ted Lasso*), Critics' Choice Television Award, and Screen Actors Guild Award (SAG).
• Musical Theatre Highlights: Three-time nominee for the Olivier Award for Best Actress in a Musical for her roles in *Spamalot* (2007), *A Little Night Music* (2010), and *Kiss Me, Kate* (2013). She also appeared in the London production of *The Wizard of Oz* (2011).
• Recent Highlights: Co-hosted the Eurovision Song Contest in Liverpool in 2023, earning widespread praise for her fluency and stage presence.

The “Love Boat by Hannah” Princess Cruises Campaign Details

The "Love Boat by Hannah" campaign is Princess Cruises’ most extensive global marketing effort to date, designed to re-establish the brand’s connection to the romantic and adventurous spirit of the original TV series. The campaign was officially launched on November 22, 2024, with advertisements debuting across major markets, including a special UK debut set for Valentine's Day.

A Modern Twist on a Classic Anthem

Waddingham’s performance is the centerpiece of the commercial. Instead of a simple cover, she delivers a powerful, contemporary, and theatrical reimagining of "The Love Boat Theme." Her interpretation highlights her incredible vocal range, transforming the lighthearted 1970s tune into a soaring, cinematic anthem. This modern take serves as a bridge, appealing both to viewers who remember the original show and younger audiences who know Waddingham from her recent screen work.

The advertisements themselves feature Waddingham aboard the magnificent *Sun Princess*, one of the cruise line's newest Sphere-class vessels. The visuals showcase the luxurious and expansive experience of a modern Princess cruise, juxtaposing the ship's sleek design and stunning destinations with the timeless quality of the song. The ads were directed by Dave Meyers, a celebrated director known for his work on major music videos and commercials.

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Princess Cruises executives have praised Waddingham for bringing a "truly special" quality to the brand's anthem, noting that her charm and powerhouse vocals perfectly embody the spirit of the cruise line. The campaign aims to cement the idea that Princess Cruises offers a modern, premium vacation experience while honoring its heritage.

The Legacy of The Love Boat Theme Song and Its Original Singers

While Hannah Waddingham is the current, viral voice of the commercial, the history of "The Love Boat Theme" is a rich tapestry woven with the talents of two major vocalists from the past. Understanding this legacy adds depth to Waddingham's contribution.

Jack Jones: The Original Voice

The song is most famously associated with American jazz and pop singer Jack Jones. Jones, a Grammy Award-winning artist, sang the theme for the vast majority of the show's run, from its debut in 1977 until its eighth season. His smooth baritone and classic vocal style became synonymous with the romantic and escapist tone of the popular show.

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Tragically, Jones passed away very recently, in October 2024, at the age of 86. This timing makes Waddingham's commercial an unplanned but poignant tribute, as it reintroduces the iconic song to the public consciousness shortly after the passing of its most famous performer.

Dionne Warwick: The Later Singer

For the final season of the original series, the legendary Dionne Warwick took over vocal duties for the theme song. Warwick, a multiple Grammy winner known for hits like "Walk On By" and "I Say a Little Prayer," brought her own distinct, soulful sound to the theme, though Jones's version remains the most widely recognized.

Why Hannah Waddingham Was the Perfect Choice for Princess Cruises

The selection of Hannah Waddingham for the "Love Boat by Hannah" campaign was a strategic masterstroke by Princess Cruises, leveraging several key aspects of her public persona and career. Her involvement provides topical authority and several natural LSI keywords for this campaign.

Firstly, her role in *Ted Lasso* as Rebecca Welton showcased her ability to command a room while maintaining a deep emotional connection with the audience. This blend of strength and warmth translates perfectly to the cruise line's image of a luxurious yet welcoming experience.

Secondly, Waddingham’s extensive background in West End musical theatre is crucial. Unlike many celebrities who lip-sync or have limited vocal ability, Waddingham is a genuine, world-class singer. Her three Olivier Award nominations for Best Actress in a Musical validate her status as a vocal powerhouse, lending an authentic, high-quality feel to the commercial's soundtrack.

Finally, her recent high-profile appearances, such as co-hosting the *Eurovision Song Contest 2023*, have given her immense global visibility, ensuring that the commercial campaign reaches a massive and diverse international audience. By choosing Waddingham, Princess Cruises has successfully launched a campaign that is fresh, unique, and deeply resonant with the legacy of *The Love Boat* while firmly positioning itself for the future. The "Love Boat by Hannah" is more than an advertisement; it is a cultural event, driven by the star power and incredible voice of Hannah Waddingham.