When you think of Three’s Company, Suzanne Somers immediately comes to mind as the bubbly and iconic Chrissy Snow, the sweet and somewhat naive roommate. Her character is one of the standout elements of the show that helped it become a hit in the late 1970s and early 1980s. But what if we told you that Suzanne Somers had another role on the show — a secret role that no one really noticed? Let’s dive into the mystery behind Suzanne Somers’ hidden second role in Three’s Company and uncover the fun, behind-the-scenes facts that even the biggest fans might not have realized!
The Iconic Role of Chrissy Snow
First, let’s revisit Suzanne Somers’ well-known role. As Chrissy Snow, Suzanne became a fan favorite for her ditzy charm and lovable, innocent personality. Chrissy’s character was often caught up in hilarious misunderstandings, particularly involving her roommates, Jack and Janet. Somers played this role so flawlessly that it became her claim to fame. But what many don’t know is that Suzanne Somers wasn’t just limited to playing Chrissy Snow.
What Was Suzanne Somers’ Secret Role?
Did you know that Suzanne Somers had a second role in Three’s Company, albeit a hidden one? This secret role was more of a behind-the-scenes contribution. Somers was not just an actress on the show; she also provided voice work for a minor character. Her voice could be heard in some scenes where a female character’s voice was needed but wasn’t always physically present on screen.
The Surprising Voiceover Role
In several episodes, Suzanne Somers voiced “Susan”, an unseen character who made a few key appearances in the background. While her role wasn’t as prominent as Chrissy’s, Suzanne’s voice played a crucial role in fleshing out certain comedic scenarios and added depth to the storyline.
This second role was a little-known fact that even some die-hard fans missed, mostly because “Susan” never physically appeared on screen. The voiceover work was subtle, but it added a layer of humor that only Three’s Company could pull off.
Why Was This Secret Role Kept Underwraps?
At the time, voiceover work was often considered an extra part of an actor’s duties, rather than something that would garner much attention. Additionally, Three’s Company was known for its slapstick comedy, so adding in a hidden voice role made sense as a comedic surprise. Suzanne Somers was already playing the iconic Chrissy, and the show’s creators probably didn’t want to distract from her well-established role by making a bigger deal of her voice work.
A Perfect Fit for Suzanne Somers
Suzanne Somers’ bubbly and distinct voice was perfect for the role of Susan. Her natural warmth and charm translated well into voice work, making it easy for fans to overlook the fact that Chrissy’s actress was behind the scenes in yet another way.
Somers, known for her comedic timing, fit seamlessly into this secondary role. Fans who loved Chrissy’s lovable and sometimes silly demeanor could easily enjoy Suzanne’s voice in the background, even if they didn’t realize it was her. The clever use of voiceover work was just one more way Three’s Company kept the show fresh and unpredictable.
The Impact of Hidden Roles in Television
Suzanne Somers’ second role in Three’s Company is a great example of how hidden roles can add a unique layer to a show. Voiceover work and minor, unseen roles often go unnoticed, but they can still leave a lasting impact. These roles allow actors to showcase their versatility without overshadowing their primary performances.
In a show like Three’s Company, where the humor was largely physical and visual, a hidden voiceover role was a clever way to maintain the energy and keep the laughs coming. It’s small touches like these that helped build Three’s Company into the beloved sitcom it is today.
The Legacy of Suzanne Somers in Three’s Company
Suzanne Somers’ legacy in Three’s Company is undeniable. While her hidden role might not have been as well known, her portrayal of Chrissy Snow left a lasting impression on viewers and helped establish the series as a cornerstone of 70s and 80s sitcoms.
Her comedic timing, infectious personality, and charm have ensured that Chrissy Snow remains one of the most memorable characters in television history. Even after leaving the show, Somers continued to be associated with the sitcom, cementing her place as a cultural icon.
Behind the Scenes of Three’s Company: More Secrets and Surprises
While Suzanne Somers’ secret second role was a fun and unexpected surprise, Three’s Company was filled with behind-the-scenes moments and stories that would leave fans shocked. From casting changes to hilarious bloopers, there were plenty of secrets that shaped the series.
The Departure of Suzanne Somers and Its Impact
While Suzanne Somers’ departure from the show was a major turning point for Three’s Company, it didn’t stop the series from continuing to enjoy its success. The character of Chrissy Snow was eventually replaced by Cindy Snow, played by Jenilee Harrison, but the spirit of the show lived on, adapting to new circumstances.
The Iconic Set of Three’s Company
The iconic apartment building in Three’s Company became as famous as the characters themselves. Fans still talk about the quirky setting and its influence on later sitcoms. The show’s colorful and often exaggerated set designs helped reinforce the comedic nature of the show, and Suzanne Somers’ role — both seen and unseen — was integral to this vibrant environment.
Conclusion
Suzanne Somers’ secret second role in Three’s Company is just one example of how multi-talented actors can contribute to a show in unexpected ways. While her role as Chrissy Snow will always be her most iconic, her voice work for the character Susan proved that she was more than just the pretty face on the screen. It’s these hidden details that keep fans coming back to the show, discovering new layers every time they watch.
FAQs
1. What was Suzanne Somers’ second role in Three’s Company? Suzanne Somers had a hidden voiceover role as “Susan,” an unseen character, adding depth to certain scenes in the show.
2. Why did Suzanne Somers leave Three’s Company? Suzanne Somers left Three’s Company due to a salary dispute with the producers, which ultimately led to her character Chrissy Snow being written off.
3. Did Suzanne Somers’ hidden role affect her career? Her secret role didn’t drastically change her career, but it showed her versatility as an actress, adding a fun layer to her performance in the show.
4. How long was Suzanne Somers on Three’s Company? Suzanne Somers appeared on Three’s Company from 1977 to 1981, making Chrissy Snow an iconic part of the show.
5. What impact did Suzanne Somers have on the legacy of Three’s Company? Suzanne Somers’ portrayal of Chrissy Snow became a hallmark of Three’s Company, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of sitcoms and television comedy.
