The Classic Sitcom: A Dream Turned Sour
When Three’s Company debuted in 1977, it quickly became one of America’s most beloved sitcoms. The chemistry between the main cast—John Ritter, Suzanne Somers, and Joyce DeWitt—was undeniable, and their comedic timing was perfect. However, behind the scenes, things weren’t always as harmonious as they appeared on screen. Suzanne Somers, who played Chrissy Snow, and Joyce DeWitt, who portrayed Janet Wood, were at the center of a bitter feud that lasted for decades.
A Glimpse into the Tension: What Sparked the Feud?
Their conflict began during the peak of Three’s Company’s success. The root of the animosity stemmed from a combination of professional jealousy, personal differences, and, notably, a salary dispute. Suzanne Somers, who was becoming a breakout star, began demanding a higher salary to match her growing popularity. Unfortunately, this did not sit well with the show’s producers or her co-stars.
The Salary Dispute: The Beginning of the Rift
Somers’ negotiation for a raise became the tipping point. She wanted a pay increase to match her status, but the producers refused, arguing that it wasn’t feasible. This led to tension between Somers and her co-stars, particularly Joyce DeWitt. DeWitt was reportedly hurt by Somers’ actions, feeling that her co-star’s demands were disrespectful to the cast and crew who worked hard for the show’s success.
Somers’ demand for a salary increase also came at a time when the network was starting to push for more dramatic changes in the show’s direction. As her role grew, so did the egos and tensions, especially in a competitive environment.
Behind the Scenes: How the Feud Played Out
Suzanne Somers’ Exit from Three’s Company
After months of tension, Suzanne Somers left Three’s Company in 1981, a move that shocked both fans and co-stars alike. Her exit was framed as a mutual decision, but it was widely known that the salary dispute played a huge role. Somers was replaced by a new character, Terri Alden (played by Priscilla Barnes), but the dynamic between the three main characters was never the same.
Joyce DeWitt’s Reaction to Somers’ Exit
DeWitt, who had always been professional and calm, was said to be disappointed in Somers’ actions. She felt betrayed by her co-star, who had pushed for more recognition and financial rewards without considering how it might affect the rest of the cast. DeWitt’s feelings of resentment grew as she continued her role without Somers, trying to keep the spirit of the show intact while working alongside new actors.
The Long Road to Reconciliation
30 Years of Silence: What Happened During the Feud?
For decades, the relationship between Somers and DeWitt remained tense, and they both spoke about their differences in various interviews. However, neither actress seemed willing to address the feud head-on in a meaningful way. It wasn’t until a special reunion for Three’s Company in 2003 that the two finally began to bury the hatchet.
The Unexpected Reunion
In 2003, the cast of Three’s Company gathered for a reunion special, and the cameras captured a moment that would mark the end of their long-standing feud. The two actresses sat down together, and for the first time, they openly discussed the past. Somers admitted that her departure from the show had been a mistake, and DeWitt confessed that she had harbored hurt feelings for many years.
Why Did It Take So Long for Them to Make Amends?
The reasons for the delay in reconciliation were multifaceted. Personal pride, hurt feelings, and the weight of their respective careers played a large part in the coldness between them. But, as with many long-standing feuds, time allowed both women to reflect on the situation with more maturity.
What Led to Their Reconciliation?
Healing Old Wounds: A Lesson in Forgiveness
When the two actresses finally reunited, it wasn’t just about putting on a smile for the cameras. It was a genuine moment of understanding and healing. Suzanne Somers and Joyce DeWitt realized that the years of silence and resentment had only hurt them both in the end. Their reconciliation was about more than just letting go of the past—it was about acknowledging their mistakes, learning from them, and moving forward.
Forgiveness and Moving Forward
The reconciliation was also symbolic of how people can change over time. Both women had gone through personal and professional challenges that helped them grow. For Somers, it was about understanding how her actions had affected her co-stars and the show’s dynamics. For DeWitt, it was about accepting that sometimes things don’t go as planned, but that forgiveness can lead to growth.
The Aftermath: How Their Relationship Evolved
After their reunion, the relationship between Somers and DeWitt was never the same as it had been during the Three’s Company years. They had both moved on to different stages in their careers and personal lives, but the respect and understanding that grew from their reconciliation became the foundation for a lasting friendship.
Conclusion: A Feud That Defined a Generation
The feud between Suzanne Somers and Joyce DeWitt is a reminder that even in the world of showbiz, things aren’t always as glamorous as they appear on screen. The drama, personal differences, and egos of two women who once worked together to entertain millions of people led to a bitter feud that lasted for decades. However, their ability to reconcile and move forward shows the power of forgiveness and growth.
Ultimately, it’s the resolution of their feud that becomes the true story—a story of redemption, healing, and the ability to make amends, even after 30 years.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why did Suzanne Somers leave Three’s Company?
Suzanne Somers left Three’s Company due to a salary dispute with the producers and tensions with her co-stars, particularly Joyce DeWitt.
2. How long did the feud between Suzanne Somers and Joyce DeWitt last?
The feud lasted for over 30 years before the two actresses finally reconciled in 2003.
3. Did Suzanne Somers and Joyce DeWitt ever talk about their feud?
Yes, both actresses discussed their differences publicly over the years and finally addressed the issue in 2003 during a Three’s Company reunion special.
4. How did the reconciliation between Suzanne Somers and Joyce DeWitt happen?
Their reconciliation took place during a Three’s Company reunion special, where they openly discussed their past and forgave each other.
5. How did their relationship change after the reconciliation?
After reconciling, Suzanne Somers and Joyce DeWitt developed a respectful and understanding relationship, marking the end of their long feud.
