NEWTON (AP) - The face may be new but the Maytag Repairman will still be lonely.

Actor Hardy Rawls will take over the part of Ol' Lonely in Maytag advertisements from Gordon Jump, 71, who is retiring from the role, the company said Tuesday.

"I've never been so excited about something in my life," said Rawls, 50, another veteran character actor. "I feel it's truly a heartwarming and lovable character that is so much fun to play."

Rawls has appeared in television shows, including "Ed," "Law and Order" and "Judging Amy," and is known for his role as the father in "The Adventures of Pete and Pete," a series produced for the Nickelodeon cable network. He also has appeared in movies, the theater and more than 300 commercials.

Jump has portrayed Ol' Lonely, one of the most famous advertising symbols ever created, since 1988. The late Jesse White had the role from 1967 until 1988.

Actor Mark Devine will continue in his role as Ol' Lonely's young partner, the Apprentice, Maytag said. Production of new ads featuring Rawls and Devine is under way, but a public launch date has not been announced.

Rawls and Devine are scheduled to visit Maytag operations in Newton in August. Jump visited Iowa from time to time.

Kristi Lafrenz, Maytag's marketing director, said Rawls was chosen in a nationwide search conducted through the Chicago-based Leo Burnett ad agency and talent agents in New York and Los Angeles. There were interviews, screen tests and evaluation sessions with focus groups.