Former child star Jill Whelan, best known for her role as Vicki Stubing on "The Love Boat," has found lasting love with her husband, Jeff Knapple. Their 2017 wedding marked Whelan's third marriage, a journey that taught her valuable lessons about relationships and self-acceptance.

Whelan emphasizes the importance of mutual respect, enjoyment of each other's company, and shared laughter in her successful marriage to Knapple. Having experienced two previous divorces, the 58-year-old actress stresses the significance of never settling in matters of the heart.

A key takeaway from her past relationships, Whelan shares, is the understanding that trying to change a partner is futile. She advises embracing one's authentic self from the outset, recognizing that sustained happiness comes from being loved for who you truly are. Whelan candidly admits to past mistakes in her love life, but emphasizes the importance of modeling healthy relationships for her three children.

Both Whelan and Knapple approached their relationship with a commitment to authenticity, agreeing to present themselves as they are, without pretense. This mutual understanding has contributed to the strength and stability of their marriage. Whelan also credits her mother for instilling strong values and guiding her through the complexities of navigating fame as a child star.

Furthermore, she acknowledges the supportive environment fostered by the cast of "The Love Boat," who imparted valuable lessons about professionalism and the importance of treating acting as a craft. Whelan reflects on the simpler times of her early career, when the absence of social media allowed for greater privacy and a less pressured experience of navigating fame.