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Gabe Kaplan Reflects On ‘Welcome Back, Kotter’ – And Who He Still Keeps In Touch With From The Cast
It’s been nearly 50 years since Welcome Back, Kotter first introduced audiences to the wisecracking Brooklyn teacher and his rowdy group of Sweathogs. The series launched in 1975 and quickly became a cultural phenomenon, partly thanks to Gabe Kaplan’s warm yet sharp performance as Mr. Kotter. While Kaplan has lived many lives since then—comedian, actor, poker champion—he still holds a special place in television history.
With the show’s 50th anniversary approaching, Kaplan, now 80, looked back on the sitcom and the moments that made it so memorable. In an interview with ReMind, he opened up about his favorite episodes, practical jokes behind the scenes, and the lasting friendships he shared with his castmates. For longtime fans curious about Gabe Kaplan now, his reflections offer both nostalgia and perspective.
Remembering Favorite Moments on Set
Gabe Kaplan at the TV Land Awards, A Celebration of Classic TV, Palladium, Hollywood, CA 03-02-03/Everett Collection
According to Remind Magazine, when asked about his favorite episode, Kaplan recalled one in which Kotter’s father visited the school. Character actor Harold J. Stone played the role, bearing a striking resemblance to Kaplan’s real father. The storyline mirrored Kaplan’s own life, as his dad once doubted his entertainment career. “Although my father watched the show every week, we never discussed that episode,” Kaplan revealed. It remains a meaningful memory from his time on the series.
WELCOME BACK, KOTTER, Gabe Kaplan, (Season 1, 1975), 1975-79. photo: Roger Prigent
Kaplan also remembered lighter moments, including a prank on a young John Travolta. After telling him he had piles of fan mail waiting, Travolta walked to the office only to come back empty-handed. Weeks later, Travolta’s popularity exploded, and he really did receive a sack full of letters. It was just one of many playful moments that defined the camaraderie among the cast.
The Cast and Gabe Kaplan Now
WELCOME BACK, KOTTER, from left: Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs, Robert Hegyes, Ron Palillo, John Travolta, Gabe Kaplan, (ca. 1977), 1975-79. photo: Frank Teti/TV Guide/courtesy Everett Collection
Looking back, Kaplan shared how close he remained with fellow stars Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs and Travolta over the years. He explained that whenever they reunited, it felt like no time had passed. Sadly, other cast members, including Marcia Strassman, Ron Palillo, Bobby Hegyes, and John White, have since passed away. Kaplan spoke warmly of their contributions and their impact on his life.
WELCOME BACK, KOTTER, clockwise from upper left, Robert Hegyes, John Sylvester White, Ron Palillo, Gabe Kaplan, Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs, Marcia Strassman, John Travolta, 1975-79. ©ABC/courtesy Everett Collection
As for Gabe Kaplan now, the former sitcom star has shifted away from acting, building a second career as a professional poker player and commentator. He became a champion in the game and carved out a respected place in the poker world. Still, for fans, Kaplan will forever be remembered as the teacher who welcomed us back each week with humor and heart.
Next up: Tom Cruise Nearly Broke His Back Filming Final ‘Mission: Impossible’ Stunt
The post Gabe Kaplan Reflects On ‘Welcome Back, Kotter’ – And Who He Still Keeps In Touch With From The Cast appeared first on DoYouRemember? - The Home of Nostalgia. Author, Ruth A
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