Introduction: The Untold Story of Suzanne Somers’ Struggles on Three’s Company
Suzanne Somers became a household name after her role as Chrissy Snow on the hit sitcom Three’s Company. But what many fans didn’t know at the time was the turmoil happening behind the scenes. Somers, who was a breakout star, found herself in a bitter battle with ABC over her salary. Her request for a pay raise didn’t go as planned—instead of gaining the respect she deserved, she was reportedly isolated on a “side set” by the network.
This article dives deep into the incredible journey of Suzanne Somers during her time on Three’s Company, revealing the harsh treatment she faced, and how asking for more money led to an emotional and professional nightmare.
The Rise of Suzanne Somers on Three’s Company
Three’s Company was one of the most beloved TV sitcoms of the late ’70s and early ’80s, and Suzanne Somers was undeniably one of its shining stars. Playing the role of Chrissy Snow, the bubbly, slightly naive blonde, Somers quickly became a fan favorite. She had all the qualities that made her TV gold—charisma, comedic timing, and beauty. But while her on-screen success skyrocketed, behind the scenes, her contract negotiations were causing serious tension.
The Salary Dispute: A Request for Fair Pay
By the third season of Three’s Company, Somers had become one of the highest-paid actresses on TV, but she still felt her compensation didn’t reflect her contribution to the show. She had become the central character, yet her salary was far below what other stars were making, especially compared to her male co-stars. Somers felt she was being undervalued, especially considering the show’s skyrocketing popularity.
So, she did what many actors would do—she asked for more money. What happened next would change her life forever.
The Response from ABC: Isolation on the ‘Side Set’
Instead of negotiating or offering a counter, ABC’s response to Somers’ request was shocking. According to Somers, the network didn’t just refuse to meet her demands, they actively punished her. She claimed that ABC isolated her on a “side set,” away from the rest of the cast and crew, effectively sidelining her from the main production.
Somers later revealed that she would often leave the studio in tears, feeling completely alone and unsupported. She had gone from being one of the stars of the show to an afterthought, all because she had dared to ask for more money.
The Emotional Toll of Being Sidelined
Being isolated on a “side set” wasn’t just a career setback—it was emotionally devastating. Somers described how the situation affected her mentally and physically, with the constant stress of being ostracized taking a toll on her health. In interviews, she mentioned how difficult it was to go to work every day, knowing she would be treated as an outsider on her own show.
Her situation was compounded by the fact that the network didn’t just ignore her—there were rumors and whispers about her behind her back. She was labeled “difficult” for asking for what she believed was a fair salary. This type of treatment is all too familiar for women in Hollywood, especially during the ’70s and ’80s when gender inequality was rampant in the entertainment industry.
The Public Fallout: Why Suzanne Somers Left Three’s Company
After the tension between Somers and ABC reached a boiling point, it became clear that her time on Three’s Company was coming to an end. The network wasn’t willing to meet her demands, and Somers was feeling increasingly disillusioned. Eventually, she was written out of the show, and her character, Chrissy Snow, was replaced by a new character, Cindy Snow (played by Jenilee Harrison).
The departure was messy and bitter. Somers’ fans were devastated, and many were left wondering why the network had treated her so poorly. For Somers, leaving the show was both a professional and personal heartbreak. She was forced to walk away from the role that made her famous.
Suzanne Somers’ Comeback: Turning the Tables on Hollywood
Though Somers’ departure from Three’s Company seemed like the end of her career, it was actually just the beginning of a new chapter. She didn’t let Hollywood’s rejection define her. Instead, she used her experience as fuel to rebuild her career.
Somers went on to star in a variety of projects, including her own successful show Suzanne Somers: The Suzanne Somers Show, and she became a sought-after author, motivational speaker, and businesswoman. She turned the very adversity that had once crushed her into an asset.
The Impact of the Salary Dispute on Somers’ Career and Legacy
The incident with ABC and Three’s Company has become a defining moment in Suzanne Somers’ career, but it also sparked a conversation about the systemic issues within Hollywood. Her experience shed light on how actresses, especially in the ’70s and ’80s, were often underpaid and undervalued. Somers’ story inspired many women in Hollywood to fight for what they were worth and helped bring attention to the gender pay gap in the entertainment industry.
A Lesson in Empowerment: Suzanne Somers’ Advice to Aspiring Actors
In the years since her experience with ABC, Suzanne Somers has become an advocate for empowerment, both for women and for all people fighting for fair treatment in their workplaces. She now speaks out about her struggles on Three’s Company as a lesson in resilience and self-worth.
For aspiring actors, Somers’ story serves as a powerful reminder that standing up for yourself is crucial—even when the industry or those in power try to tear you down. Her journey is proof that perseverance and self-belief can lead to success, no matter the obstacles.
The Long-Term Effects: A Lasting Legacy in Hollywood
Suzanne Somers’ battle with ABC didn’t just affect her—it had a ripple effect on the industry. Today, her story is remembered not just as a cautionary tale, but as an important chapter in the ongoing fight for gender equality in entertainment. She may have been isolated on a “side set,” but in the end, Suzanne Somers proved that no one can be sidelined for long when they refuse to accept less than they deserve.
Conclusion: Suzanne Somers’ Legacy of Strength and Perseverance
Suzanne Somers’ experience on Three’s Company is a powerful reminder of how difficult the entertainment industry can be, especially for women. But it’s also a story of empowerment and resilience. By standing up for what she believed in, even when it meant risking her career, Somers not only changed her own life but helped bring awareness to the systemic issues in Hollywood.
Her story isn’t just about a salary dispute; it’s about fighting for fairness and dignity, no matter the consequences. Suzanne Somers’ legacy is a testament to the strength of women everywhere who refuse to be silenced or sidelined.
FAQs
1. Why did Suzanne Somers leave Three’s Company?
Suzanne Somers left Three’s Company after a salary dispute with ABC. She asked for a pay raise, and instead of negotiating, the network isolated her and ultimately wrote her out of the show.
2. How did ABC treat Suzanne Somers during her time on Three’s Company?
ABC reportedly isolated Suzanne Somers on a “side set” after she asked for more money, which caused her emotional distress. She later described leaving the studio in tears.
3. What was the impact of Suzanne Somers’ departure from Three’s Company?
Suzanne Somers’ departure from Three’s Company had a significant impact, as it sparked a conversation about gender inequality and pay disparity in Hollywood, particularly for actresses.
4. How did Suzanne Somers recover after leaving Three’s Company?
Suzanne Somers went on to build a successful career as a television host, author, and businesswoman. She turned her experience with ABC into a source of empowerment and resilience.
5. What lessons can be learned from Suzanne Somers’ story?
Suzanne Somers’ story teaches us the importance of standing up for oneself, even in the face of adversity. Her experience highlights the need for gender equality and fair pay in the entertainment industry.
