Lisa Whelchel Talks Second Marriage and “Collector’s Call”

Lisa Whelchel, known for her role in “Facts of Life,” has discovered love again. She spoke about her journey in an interview, acknowledging her first marriage to Rev. Stephen Cobble, which lasted from 1988 to 2012 and resulted in three children.

Reflecting on her second marriage, Whelchel emphasized the importance of learning from past experiences. She mentioned that, after being married for 23 years, she now knows what to appreciate and what pitfalls to avoid. “I think we really knew what we wanted and needed before we got married again,” she stated, recognizing the growth and maturity that come with time.

When she’s not with her family, Whelchel is busy hosting “Collector’s Call,” a show where she explores unique pop culture collections from fans across the country. This series, running on METV since 2019, piqued her interest not because she is an avid collector—quite the opposite, in fact—but rather due to her fascination with people’s stories behind their collections.

Whelchel shared that some of the items she’s encountered are amusing and bizarre. For instance, she stumbled upon a vintage weight loss product that claimed to wash away pounds, all while just being a bar of soap. The whimsy of these items and the enthusiasm of their owners keeps her intrigued.

She recounted a nostalgic moment when she found a “Ziggle” belt machine, which reminded her of her childhood. “I remember my cousin and I laughing as we used it,” she said, indicating how these objects carry sentimental values.

Discussing the broader appeal of nostalgia, Whelchel explained that many people find comfort in revisiting their childhood memories during tense times. The innocence of those earlier years resonates deeply with audiences today, offering a sense of relief from adult responsibilities.

Whelchel fondly recalled her time on “The Facts of Life,” sharing fun memories with her co-stars, including her on-screen romance with George Clooney. “At the time, he was just an adorable guy, but I think fans would be surprised by who he is now,” she mused.

Presently, one of her greatest joys comes from being a grandmother. The love she has for her grandchildren seems to outweigh anything else. “They are just incredible. Each has their own unique personality,” she expressed, showcasing the joy that family brings to her life.

“Collector’s Call” continues to air every Sunday at 6:30 pm, allowing viewers to dive into the world of intriguing collections while sharing heartfelt stories behind them.