Three’s Company is not only a classic sitcom but also an icon of American television in the 70s and 80s. With its charming humor, cute storyline and explosive acting from the cast, the show has become a part of the memories of many generations of viewers. Over 8 seasons from 1977 to 1984, many episodes of Three’s Company achieved huge viewership, breaking many ratings records at that time. Below are the most watched Three’s Company episodes of all time, according to ratings and long-term popularity.
A Man About the House (Season 1, Episode 1)
Why You Can’t Miss This Episode
This is the episode that kicks off the series, introducing the audience to the three main characters: Jack Tripper (John Ritter), Janet Wood (Joyce DeWitt), and Chrissy Snow (Suzanne Somers).
Curious content: Jack has to pretend to be gay to be allowed to be with two girlfriends — a bold idea at that time. Viewership: ~20 million, an impressive number for a first episode.
Interesting points
This episode is the “opening shot” for the entire humorous universe of Three’s Company. This is also the first time the audience enjoys John Ritter’s natural comedy ability.
The Bake-Off (Season 4, Episode 18)
Why This Episode Is So Popular
Jack and Mr. Roper accidentally “mistakenly bake” a cake containing an aphrodisiac ingredient. A series of funny and sad situations occur when everyone attending the party eats this special cake.
Viewership: ~23 million.
Interesting points
One of the funniest episodes of the series. Considered one of the “fan-favorite episodes” of the entire Three’s Company.
Jack’s Navy Pal (Season 5, Episode 1)
Why It’s So Popular
An old friend of Jack’s comes over and… causes a series of misunderstandings about Jack’s “true gender”. This episode exploits the strength of John Ritter’s slapstick comedy at its peak.
Viewership: ~25 million.
Interesting points
One of the episodes with the highest number of reruns in the history of Three’s Company. Critics consider it “one of the quintessential episodes” of the series.
The Best Laid Plans (Season 6, Episode 21)
Why This Episode Marks It
Jack plans to propose to his girlfriend but everything falls apart in a series of humorous accidents. The episode exploits the romance and “unexpected situations” element that is very typical of Three’s Company.
Viewership: ~26 million.
Interesting points
This is one of the episodes that is considered to have the most intelligent and touching script. The audience at that time discussed this episode a lot in newspapers and television magazines.
Friends and Lovers (Season 8, Final Episode)
Why It’s An Episode Not to Be Missed
The final episode of Three’s Company. Marking Jack’s farewell to the legendary apartment and also opening the spin-off series Three’s a Crowd. Emotions filled the audience when the main cast said goodbye to the audience.
Viewership: ~31 million – the most watched episode in the entire series.
Interesting points
One of the final episodes with the highest viewership in the history of American television in the 80s. John Ritter shared that he was very emotional when filming the final scene.
Even after more than 40 years, Three’s Company remains a shining gem in the American sitcom pantheon. The classic episodes mentioned above not only have a huge viewership, but are also loved and watched over and over again for generations. If you’re a fan or someone who’s just discovered the series, check out these most-watched episodes of all time — you’ll understand why Three’s Company is forever a “legend.”
