The Behind-the-Scenes Drama of ‘Three’s Company’: Joyce DeWitt vs. Suzanne Somers

Introduction

“Three’s Company” was a popular sitcom that aired from 1977 to 1984. It starred John Ritter, Joyce DeWitt, and Suzanne Somers. While the show was a huge success, there was a lot of drama behind the scenes, particularly between DeWitt and Somers. In this article, we’ll take a look at the reasons why the two actresses couldn’t see eye to eye.

The Rise of ‘Three’s Company’

“Three’s Company” was a groundbreaking show for its time. It was one of the first sitcoms to feature a live-in couple who weren’t married. The show was a ratings hit and made stars out of its cast members.

The Growing Tension Between DeWitt and Somers

While the show was a success, there was a growing tension between DeWitt and Somers. DeWitt was a more serious actress who took her craft seriously. Somers, on the other hand, was more interested in the business side of things. She was a savvy businesswoman who negotiated lucrative deals for herself.

The Salary Dispute

In 1980, Somers asked for a significant pay raise. The producers refused, and Somers went on strike. She eventually returned to the show, but the damage had been done. DeWitt was upset that Somers had put the show at risk for her own gain.

The Different Approaches to Acting

DeWitt and Somers also had different approaches to acting. DeWitt was a method actress who believed in immersing herself in her characters. Somers, on the other hand, was more interested in delivering lines and getting laughs.

The Impact on the Show

The tension between DeWitt and Somers eventually took a toll on the show. The chemistry between the three main characters began to suffer, and the show’s ratings began to decline.

The End of ‘Three’s Company’

In 1984, “Three’s Company” was canceled. The show’s producers blamed the cancellation on the growing tension between DeWitt and Somers.

The Aftermath

After the show ended, DeWitt and Somers continued to feud. They both gave interviews in which they took digs at each other.

Conclusion

The behind-the-scenes drama of “Three’s Company” is a cautionary tale about the importance of teamwork in the entertainment industry. While the show was a huge success, the tension between DeWitt and Somers ultimately led to its downfall.

FAQs

  1. Why did Suzanne Somers leave ‘Three’s Company’?
    • Suzanne Somers left “Three’s Company” because she was unhappy with her salary. She went on strike and eventually returned to the show, but the damage had been done.
  2. What was the relationship between Joyce DeWitt and Suzanne Somers like?
    • Joyce DeWitt and Suzanne Somers had a very strained relationship. They had different approaches to acting and often disagreed about the direction of the show.
  3. Did the tension between DeWitt and Somers affect the show?
    • Yes, the tension between DeWitt and Somers did affect the show. The chemistry between the three main characters began to suffer, and the show’s ratings began to decline.
  4. What happened to Joyce DeWitt and Suzanne Somers after ‘Three’s Company’ ended?
    • After “Three’s Company” ended, Joyce DeWitt and Suzanne Somers continued to feud. They both gave interviews in which they took digs at each other.
  5. Was ‘Three’s Company’ canceled because of the tension between DeWitt and Somers?
    • The show’s producers blamed the cancellation of “Three’s Company” on the growing tension between DeWitt and Somers. However, it is likely that other factors, such as declining ratings, also played a role.
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