Sold-Out ‘Three’s Company’ Reading Starring Adam Devine and Kaley Cuoco Honors John Ritter’s Legacy

Introduction: A Night That Brought the House Down

If you’re a fan of television history, comedy gold and heartfelt tributes, then you’ll want to sit up and take notice. Recently, the beloved classic sitcom Three’s Company was brought back—not via rerun, but in a live, sold-out reading featuring modern comedy stars Adam Devine and Kaley Cuoco. That alone is news. But even more moving: this event was explicitly designed to honour the legacy of the late John Ritter, the actor whose boundless energy and physical comedy made the original show a hit.

In this article, we’ll walk you through what made the event unique, why fans went wild, how John Ritter’s impact is still being felt, and what this moment tells us about nostalgia, legacy and the power of live performance in the digital age.

A Tribute That Hits the Mark

 What Was the Event?

The event was a live staged reading of an episode of Three’s Company. The chosen episode: “Going to Pot” from Season 7 of the original series. The reading took place at the annual gala of the John Ritter Foundation for Aortic Health (JRF), the charity founded in his memory.

Who Was On-Stage?

The cast included:

• Adam Devine stepping into the shoes of Jack Tripper (originally played by John Ritter)

• Kaley Cuoco playing Janet Wood.

• Original cast members, including Priscilla Barnes (Terri Alden) and Richard Kline (Larry Dallas) reprising their roles.

• Additional comedy talent and narration directed by veteran filmmaker Dennis Dugan, with Tom Bergeron as narrator.

Why Was It Sold-Out?

Several factors combined to create massive buzz:

• A rare live event: the chance to experience a classic sitcom in a “live reading” format is uncommon.

• Nostalgia meets modern talent: fans of the 70s/80s show + fans of Devine & Cuoco = cross-generational appeal.

• A charitable purpose: the event benefitted the John Ritter Foundation for Aortic Health, giving deeper meaning.

• Media savvy: streaming partner and marathon tie-ins (via Pluto TV) amplified the occasion.

Why John Ritter’s Legacy Still Matters

The Rise of John Ritter

John Ritter gained fame playing Jack Tripper on Three’s Company from 1977 to 1984.His performance combined physical comedy, timing, and that everyman charm that made him a fixture of American TV comedy.

The Impact of His Passing

Tragically, Ritter died in 2003 at age 54 after an undetected aortic dissection.That sudden loss stunned fans, the industry, and his co-workers. His passing prompted the creation of the John Ritter Foundation for Aortic Health (JRF), which continues his mission in a meaningful way.

How the Foundation Keeps That Memory Alive

The foundation doesn’t just memorialize him—it actively advances awareness, research and funding around thoracic aortic aneurysm and dissection.  The tribute reading we’re discussing is one core way the foundation connects his on-screen legacy with his off-screen mission.

 The Emotional Connection to His Family and Fans

For many fans, John Ritter was more than a comedic actor—he represented joy, authenticity, and a kind of lighthearted brilliance. Actors like Kaley Cuoco, who worked with him on another sitcom, have shared deeply personal memories of his kindness, mentorship and influence.

How the Reading Bridged the Generations

The Classic Episode Choice

“Going to Pot” (Season 7) is steeped in the classic ‘mistaken identity/bed-hopping humour’ that Three’s Company mastered. Selecting this episode revived the original spirit while giving it a fresh live reading twist.

Modern Talent Warming Up the Legacy

Adam Devine and Kaley Cuoco aren’t just celebrity names—they bring their comedic energy and fan bases to attract younger audiences. Their participation builds a bridge between classic TV fans and modern watchers.

Original Cast Returning

Having Priscilla Barnes and Richard Kline back in their roles added authenticity and a direct link to the original run. That matters because it signals respect rather than appropriation.

 An Event for More Than Just Laughs

Because the reading was part of a gala for a health foundation, it carried weight. It had heart. It had purpose. That emotional undercurrent elevates it beyond mere nostalgia.

What Made the Event Truly Stand Out

The Live Reading Format

Unlike simply watching an episode, a live reading offers spontaneity, energy, and an audience-shared experience. You feel the humor differently.

 Sold-Out Status = Cultural Moment

When tickets vanish quickly, it signals more than interest—it signals cultural relevance. This is a text-book example of how legacy shows can still command attention.

 Streaming & Accessibility Effects

Partners such as Pluto TV amplify the reach. The show is not only for those at the gala—it touches global audiences via on-demand.

Buzz & Social Media Amplification

Stories of celebrities donning the original jacket of John Ritter, or bidding on memorabilia, create compelling social narrative. For example: Kaley Cuoco bought Ritter’s original Three’s Company cast jacket at auction.

Intersection of Nostalgia & Relevance

Fans of classic sitcoms feel respected; younger viewers get a fresh comedy experience; charities get attention. That triple-win is rare.

What This Means for TV, Legacy & Live Events

Nostalgia Isn’t Just for Boomers

Sure, older viewers remember Three’s Company. But younger audiences can discover it fresh—especially when tapped into by modern stars. Reddit threads confirm younger viewers are rediscovering classic sitcoms because of streaming access.

Live Performances of TV Classics Are a Trend

We’re starting to see more of them—reading, reenactments, live-table reads. They play to a hybrid audience of fans and event-goers.

Legacy Actors Still Matter

John Ritter’s influence lives on—not just via reruns but via events, foundations, and media tie-ins. When a legacy is handled with respect, it invites new generations in.

Charitable Hooks Elevate Entertainment

By tying the reading to the JRF’s cause, the event became meaningful. It wasn’t just for laughs—it was for lives. That distinction makes a difference in seriousness and audience reception.

 The Future of Sitcom Revivals

This event sets a blueprint: choose an iconic show, pick an exciting cast combination, partner with streaming and charity, create a live moment—and you’ve got marquee-worthy content.

Behind the Scenes – Insights Worth Knowing

 Casting Decisions

The choice of Adam Devine as Jack Tripper was bold yet thoughtful. He brings physical comedy chops and a fan base of younger viewers. The decision to include original cast members signalled homage rather than replacement.

Production & Direction

Directed by Dennis Dugan (who directed episodes of the original series), the production choice kept the tone aligned with the original show’s spirit.

Ticket Demand & Marketing

Pre-event marketing emphasized sold-out status, the charitable angle, the streaming partner, and the blend of old and new stars—all key triggers for shareability on social media.

 Memorabilia & Auction Highlights

One omen of the magic: Kaley Cuoco acquired John Ritter’s original Three’s Company jacket at a foundation auction. That kind of personal touch resonates with fans and press alike.

The Legacy of ‘Three’s Company’ in the 21st Century

The Show’s Original Appeal

Three’s Company was built on misunderstanding, physical comedy, and a three-way living situation that pushed boundaries (for its era). It ran from 1977 to 1984.

Why It Still Works

Despite some dated elements, the premise—housemates, comedic mishaps, and the charm of Jack Tripper—still holds up. Reddit fans say it “still makes me laugh after all these years.”

With reruns, streaming apps and special events, younger viewers are rediscovering it. The recent live reading only amplifies this trend.

 A Legacy Enhanced by Tribute Events

This gala and reading add another layer to how the show is remembered—not just as nostalgia, but as a living brand connected to health, charity and modern entertainment.

What Fans Are Saying

From Classic Fans

Many longtime fans expressed excitement on Reddit:

“I love that Kaley will be a part of this but sad there’s no Joyce…”
It shows the appetite for live tribute formats.

From Newer Generations

A younger fan wrote:

“I’m Gen Z and I know about Three’s Company… started watching it 3 years ago and it’s absolutely hilarious.” 
That means the show’s appeal is crossing generational lines.

The Cross-Generational Win

By combining legacy cast members with younger actors, the event managed to bring both old and new fans together.

Why This Matters Beyond the Event

Television History as Living Culture

This reading proves that TV history isn’t static. It can be re-imagined, celebrated and repurposed for new audiences.

Legacy with Purpose

Putting comedy and tribute together—especially tied to a foundation—means the legacy becomes purposeful rather than simply nostalgic.

Event Format Resurgence

The success of this sold-out live reading suggests that live, one-night-only formats for beloved shows may become increasingly popular.

Monetization & Meaning

When done right, combining charity, streaming, star power and nostalgia can create meaningful revenue and cultural buzz—without cheapening the original.

What’s Next? The Ripple Effects

 Possible Future Readings or Revivals

Will more episodes of Three’s Company get the live-reading treatment? Possibly. The blueprint is there.

The Foundation’s Continued Work

Expect the John Ritter Foundation to lean into entertainment partnerships more often, using pop culture to amplify awareness of aortic health.

 Audience Expectations for Live Events Rise

Fans will expect higher production value, star power and interactive streaming options from events like this.

Legacy Shows Getting Fresh Leases on Life

One-night tributes, streaming marathons, social-first promotions—all this suggests that classic shows are more alive than ever.

Conclusion

In the end, the sold-out live reading of Three’s Company featuring Adam Devine and Kaley Cuoco wasn’t just a nostalgic throwback. It was a heartfelt celebration of John Ritter’s legacy—one that married classic comedy with modern sensibilities, star power with charitable purpose, and fans new and old alike. It showed that when you honor the past thoughtfully and bring in the present creatively, you forge something timeless. If you missed it? Consider this your invitation to the resurgence of live-comedy tributes—and to remembering that laughter, legacy and purpose can go hand in hand.

FAQs

Q1: What exactly was performed at the reading?
A1: The live event was a staged reading of Three’s Company episode “Going to Pot” (Season 7) featuring a mix of original cast members and guest stars.

Q2: Why did they choose Adam Devine and Kaley Cuoco?
A2: Their casting brought modern comedy credibility (Devine) and a personal connection to John Ritter (Cuoco worked with him on another sitcom). It also widened the audience appeal.

Q3: What role does the John Ritter Foundation for Aortic Health play?
A3: The foundation raises awareness and funds research on thoracic aortic aneurysm and dissection. The event acted as a fundraiser and tribute to Ritter’s life and legacy.

Q4: Was the event livestreamed or available later?
A4: Yes, with partner Pluto TV providing on-demand access so fans who couldn’t attend could still experience the reading.

Q5: Why is Three’s Company still popular today?
A5: Because its comedy remains relatable, its lead (John Ritter) remains a beloved figure, and newer generations are discovering it through streaming and events—showing that some humour truly is timeless.