Three’s Company, the iconic ‘70s sitcom, is more than just a nostalgic favorite for TV lovers. It was a groundbreaking show that pushed the boundaries of television comedy by exploring taboo subjects through humor. While it became famous for its laugh-out-loud moments and memorable characters, its impact went far beyond just entertainment. The show boldly confronted societal norms around gender, relationships, and sexuality, making it a revolutionary piece of TV history. Let’s dive deep into how Three’s Company changed the sitcom landscape and became a cultural touchstone.
The Origins of Three’s Company and Its Bold Premise
How Three’s Company Came to Be
Created by Don Nicholl, Michael Ross, and Bernie West, Three’s Company first aired in 1976 on ABC. Inspired by the British sitcom Man About the House, the American version featured a unique premise: a man, Jack Tripper (played by John Ritter), pretends to be gay in order to live with two women—Chrissy (Susan Somers) and Janet (Joyce DeWitt)—in a single apartment.
This setup was daring for its time, as it tackled issues like sexual mores and gender roles in a way that was both comedic and subversive.
The Perfect Cast for a Groundbreaking Show
The dynamic chemistry between the three lead actors became one of the driving forces behind the show’s success. John Ritter’s portrayal of the charming but bumbling Jack Tripper won hearts, while the comedic timing of Joyce DeWitt and Suzanne Somers complemented Ritter perfectly.
Breaking Taboos: The Comedy of Gender and Sexuality
The ‘Pretend Gay’ Gimmick
At the heart of Three’s Company was the ongoing gag that Jack was pretending to be gay so he could share an apartment with two women. This simple premise opened the door to many of the show’s most memorable—and risqué—moments. By making Jack’s sexuality the subject of constant comedic tension, the show addressed issues of gender and sexual identity in ways that were unconventional for the time.
Gender Roles Reimagined
The sitcom’s approach to gender was especially revolutionary. Jack, though a man, was often placed in traditionally feminine situations, like performing household chores or engaging in conversations about relationships. Meanwhile, Chrissy and Janet—traditionally thought of as the “girly” types—often took on more dominant roles in their interactions with Jack. This role reversal created a new dynamic in television comedy that challenged the conventional gender stereotypes that were pervasive in the ‘70s.
The Impact on TV Comedy and American Culture
Pushing Boundaries for Prime Time
In the ‘70s, most sitcoms were relatively safe and avoided controversial topics. Three’s Company didn’t just push boundaries—it shattered them. The show’s ability to handle issues like sexual innuendo, flirtation, and unconventional living arrangements, all while maintaining a light-hearted tone, was groundbreaking for the time.
Cultural Reflections Through Humor
As Three’s Company tackled topics like gender fluidity and sexual tension, it acted as a mirror to the changing cultural landscape in America. The ‘70s were a time of great social change, with the rise of feminist movements, the sexual revolution, and the beginnings of LGBTQ+ rights activism. The show captured the spirit of these shifts, offering a platform to explore these cultural conversations through humor.
Controversy and Censorship: Navigating the Line Between Humor and Taboo
The Struggles with Censorship
While Three’s Company was known for its daring content, it often found itself walking the fine line between humor and censorship. Its cheeky double entendres, suggestive situations, and sexual jokes frequently faced scrutiny from television networks and critics. Despite this, Three’s Company was clever enough to stay just within the boundaries of acceptability, keeping the laughs rolling without completely crossing over into controversial territory.
Jack’s ‘Gay’ Role: Controversial or Comedic Genius?
The central theme of Jack pretending to be gay was frequently discussed in both comedic and critical circles. Some saw it as a progressive commentary on sexuality, while others felt it was a simplistic and problematic approach. Regardless, it became one of the defining aspects of the show, highlighting how Three’s Company both entertained and provoked thought.
The Show’s Legacy and Lasting Influence on Sitcoms
Setting the Stage for Future Sitcoms
In many ways, Three’s Company paved the way for other sitcoms that would follow in its footsteps. Its mix of slapstick humor and socially relevant topics would inspire shows like Will & Grace, The Golden Girls, and even more recent shows like New Girl.
The premise of unconventional living situations, where opposite-sex roommates had to hide their relationships for comic effect, would become a staple in TV comedies for decades. Its influence can be seen in countless shows that balance humor with an underlying social commentary.
Cultural Icon Status
The memorable catchphrases, like Jack’s exasperated “Come and knock on our door,” and the show’s iconic theme song, ensured that Three’s Company remained a cultural touchstone. Despite ending in 1984, the show continues to influence modern TV, with reboots and references cropping up in current pop culture.
Why Three’s Company Still Matters Today
Exploring Its Relevance in Today’s Society
Even though Three’s Company first aired nearly 50 years ago, its influence can still be seen in the media we consume today. The themes of breaking down gender roles, tackling sexuality with humor, and challenging societal norms remain as relevant as ever.
As issues surrounding gender and sexuality become increasingly visible in the media, Three’s Company’s early attempts to address them continue to feel groundbreaking. Today’s shows still owe much to the blueprint it set for combining humor with social commentary.
Laughing Through Taboos
The genius of Three’s Company lay in its ability to laugh through what were, at the time, taboo subjects. By using humor to address complex issues, it made these conversations more accessible to a mainstream audience. Even in the era of Netflix and binge-watching, the show’s ability to balance social commentary with comedy is a skill that remains rare.
Conclusion: A Show Ahead of Its Time
Three’s Company was a sitcom that broke barriers, tackled taboos, and left a lasting mark on American television. Its ability to address complex social issues while making audiences laugh was a bold move that not only entertained but also educated viewers. By challenging gender norms, sexuality, and societal expectations, the show became a cultural phenomenon that shaped TV comedy for decades to come. Today, Three’s Company remains a testament to the power of humor in exploring social issues—proving that a little laughter can go a long way in shifting perspectives.
FAQs
1. What was the premise of Three’s Company?
The show revolved around Jack Tripper, a man who pretends to be gay so he can live with two women, Chrissy and Janet, in the same apartment—creating comedic situations and challenging gender norms.
2. How did Three’s Company address social issues?
The show used humor to tackle taboo topics like sexuality, gender roles, and relationships, often creating hilarious but thought-provoking scenarios.
3. Was Three’s Company controversial?
Yes, the show often faced criticism for its portrayal of gender roles and sexuality, but it also sparked important conversations while maintaining a comedic tone.
4. Why is Three’s Company still relevant today?
The show’s exploration of societal issues like gender fluidity and LGBTQ+ rights still resonates with today’s conversations on these topics in media and culture.
5. Did Three’s Company inspire other TV shows?
Yes, the show’s innovative take on humor and societal norms paved the way for later sitcoms like Will & Grace, New Girl, and many others.
