Tina Louise, born on February 11, 1934, in New York City, is an American actress, singer, and author. She gained fame for her role as Ginger Grant, the glamorous movie star, in the television sitcom “Gilligan’s Island,” which aired from 1964 to 1967.
Before her television success, Louise had a diverse career in theater and film. She made her Broadway debut in 1952 and appeared in various productions, including “Li’l Abner” in 1957. Her film debut came in 1958 with “God’s Little Acre,” earning her the Golden Globe Award for Most Promising Newcomer.
After “Gilligan’s Island,” Louise continued her acting career, taking roles in films like “The Stepford Wives” (1975) and making appearances in television series such as “Dallas” and “Roseanne.” Despite her continued work, she often felt typecast due to her iconic role as Ginger Grant.
In recent interviews, Louise has reflected on her time with “Gilligan’s Island,” discussing challenges with her character’s development and revealing that the cast earned modest salaries during the show’s original run.
She also expressed a desire to leave the series early on due to dissatisfaction with her character’s portrayal but ultimately remained after changes were made.
As of 2025, Tina Louise is the last surviving member of the original “Gilligan’s Island” cast. She continues to reside in New York City, where she maintains an active presence on social media, sharing insights into her life and career with her followers.