If this has been asked before, I apologize.

I believe it was, Alan Hale jr. (Skipper) It may be different for everyone else, but he really was like the Skipper in his private life.

I loved Alan Hale, Jr. He just seemed like such a fun-loving guy. Even well after GI ended, in practically all his appearances he was still wearing his "Skipper" hat. He was perfect for that role.

I concur. From everything I've heard, Alan really became the Skipper. From his great comedic timing and excellent rapport with Bob/Gilligan, to his channeling of Oliver Hardy with the breaking the fourth wall exasperated looks at the camera, he was tailor suited for the role!

I heard the Skipper had a seafood restaurant in LA (?) where he was the skipper there ! His wife said th GI show was the apple in his eye +- !