The antics of the three single roommates, paired with the unforgettable performances of John Ritter and Suzanne Somers, cemented Three’s Company as a staple of American television. It’s almost unbelievable that 40 years have passed since the final episode aired, but the show’s charm and humor continue to resonate with audiences today. Just rewatching the intro, especially the iconic Santa Monica Pier scenes, brings a wave of nostalgia, reminding us of how much has changed since those days.
Tragically, both John Ritter and Suzanne Somers are no longer with us, having passed away far too soon. However, Joyce DeWitt, who is now 75, keeps the spirit of Three’s Company alive. She continues to share fond memories and untold stories from the set, helping fans relive the magic of the show. In a recent interview with US Weekly, DeWitt reflected on the surprising impact the show had on viewers: “The most dear, precious, tender—and utterly unexpected—experiences that came from working on Three’s Company are the many adults who’ve told me it was a safe haven for them during their teenage years. For some, it was the only safe haven.”
As Janet Wood, DeWitt became a beloved TV icon, appearing in 171 episodes from 1976 to 1984. Looking back on her time on the show, she described it as a “gift” that no one could have predicted. “We were just trying to make people laugh,” she told The Spec. “The show was really an attempt to create a modern-day version of a 16th-century farce, where silliness ruled. Yes, sometimes we addressed serious issues, but they were always hidden beneath the laughter.”
She also recalled how John Ritter used to say, “We don’t just want people to laugh; we want them to fall over their couches laughing.” But beyond the humor, DeWitt believes it was the deep friendship between the characters that really captured the hearts of viewers. “That’s what kept people coming back,” she explained.
After Three’s Company ended, DeWitt took a long break from acting, stepping out of the spotlight for over a decade. Despite her many other accomplishments, most fans will always associate her with Three’s Company, and she understands why. “It provided people with a ‘time out’ from the harsh realities they were facing in their lives,” she said. “Sure, the characters did goofy things that made people laugh, but it was the love and support between them that made fans stick with the show.”
However, not everything behind the scenes was as rosy as it seemed on-screen. Suzanne Somers, who played the lovable Chrissy Snow, eventually became embroiled in a conflict over equal pay, which strained her relationship with DeWitt. Somers’ demand for a 500% raise resulted in tension on the set, and she was eventually fired. This led to over 30 years of silence between Somers and DeWitt.
In 2012, however, the two actresses finally reconciled during an emotional appearance on Somers’ talk show, Breaking Through. The heartfelt reunion saw them embrace and reflect on their time together. DeWitt praised Somers for her accomplishments, saying, “You went up against ruthlessness, and while it came down on you, what you’ve gone on to do is immeasurable.” The moment was a beautiful reminder of the power of forgiveness and the strength of their journey.
DeWitt and Somers remained friends until Somers’ untimely death in 2023. In a touching interview with US Weekly, DeWitt paid tribute to both Somers and Ritter, calling them “true gifts” to television.
As we revisit old photos from the set of Three’s Company, we are reminded of the joy, laughter, and unforgettable moments that the show gave us. These images not only celebrate the fun the cast brought to our screens, but also highlight the lasting legacy of this beloved sitcom.
Rest in peace, John Ritter and Suzanne Somers. You may be gone, but you will never be forgotten.
