“Three’s Company” was one of the most beloved sitcoms of the late ’70s and early ’80s, bringing comedy and unforgettable characters to millions of homes across America. But behind the on-screen hilarity, there are shocking secrets about the cast that fans never saw coming. You know the characters, but how much do you really know about what went on behind the scenes? Let’s dive deep into the truth about the Three’s Company cast—its drama, scandals, and the untold stories that shaped the show.
The Making of “Three’s Company”: A Cultural Phenomenon
“Three’s Company” first premiered in 1977, quickly becoming one of the most popular sitcoms of its time. Set in a Santa Monica apartment, the series followed the lives of three single roommates—Jack Tripper (John Ritter), Janet Wood (Joyce DeWitt), and Chrissy Snow (Suzanne Somers). What made the show stand out was its hilarious premise: a man sharing an apartment with two women, all while dealing with misunderstandings, love triangles, and a landlord who was, shall we say, a bit clueless.
But what you didn’t see was the off-camera drama that would later shock fans and change the course of the show forever.
John Ritter: The Heart and Soul of “Three’s Company”
John Ritter’s Legacy: A Star of Comedy and Tragedy
John Ritter was the shining star of Three’s Company, known for his slapstick humor and lovable portrayal of Jack Tripper. But beyond his charming on-screen persona, Ritter’s life was filled with both highs and lows. He was a comedic genius, beloved by audiences, yet his personal life was anything but perfect.
John’s off-screen struggles included balancing the demands of fame and family. He was known for his incredible work ethic and caring nature, but his sudden death in 2003 from an aortic dissection left fans heartbroken. His legacy continues to be celebrated, and many consider him one of the most gifted comedic actors of his generation.
Joyce DeWitt: The Unsung Hero of “Three’s Company”
The Real Reason Joyce DeWitt Left the Show
While John Ritter’s fame was well-deserved, Joyce DeWitt, who played the sensible Janet Wood, was often overshadowed. However, Joyce’s departure from Three’s Company shocked fans and raised questions that still linger today.
Rumors suggest that there was tension on set between DeWitt and Suzanne Somers, which may have influenced her decision to leave. The struggle for more screen time, alongside behind-the-scenes drama, seemed to weigh heavily on DeWitt. Though she was one of the original stars of the show, her exit after the eighth season was never fully explained, leading to much speculation among fans.
Suzanne Somers: The Controversial Cast Member
Suzanne Somers’ Departure and the Public Feud
Suzanne Somers, who played the lovable but ditzy Chrissy Snow, became a breakout star thanks to her role on Three’s Company. However, her time on the show was marred by an infamous feud with the show’s producers, especially when she demanded a significant salary increase.
Her request for a raise in 1980, which was reportedly about doubling her pay, led to her being written off the show. Suzanne’s exit sparked a media frenzy, with Somers accusing the producers of mistreatment. She was eventually replaced by Jenilee Harrison and later by Priscilla Barnes, but her departure remains one of the most dramatic moments in sitcom history.
Behind the Scenes: The Tensions That Almost Ended the Show
The Struggles Between Cast and Producers
The clash between Suzanne Somers and the producers wasn’t the only issue that plagued Three’s Company. John Ritter, Joyce DeWitt, and Somers were all struggling with their contracts, leading to tensions and drama both on and off screen. The show’s success brought fame and fortune, but it also created a toxic atmosphere behind the scenes.
Despite these issues, Three’s Company continued to thrive, thanks to the chemistry between the main cast. But the departure of key actors, like Somers and DeWitt, marked a turning point for the show, and the magic never quite returned.
The Show’s Controversial Storylines: What You Didn’t Know
Pushing Boundaries: “Three’s Company” and Its Impact on TV
Three’s Company was more than just a sitcom—it pushed the boundaries of what was acceptable on television at the time. Its storylines, often filled with misunderstandings and innuendos, made it a bold and daring show that raised eyebrows.
At a time when primetime TV was more conservative, Three’s Company took risks with its portrayal of relationships, sexuality, and gender roles. The show became a cultural phenomenon, yet its willingness to challenge social norms often led to controversy.
The Final Season: How “Three’s Company” Came to an End
The Show’s Decline and the Search for a New Dynamic
After Suzanne Somers left, the show never fully recovered. New characters were introduced, but they failed to capture the same magic as the original trio. The last season of Three’s Company saw the show’s ratings drop, and eventually, it was canceled in 1984.
The decision to end the show was likely a combination of declining viewership, behind-the-scenes drama, and the difficulty of maintaining the show’s core dynamic without the original cast.
The Legacy of “Three’s Company” and Its Lasting Influence
Why Three’s Company Still Holds a Special Place in Our Hearts
Despite the drama, Three’s Company remains a beloved show to this day. Its unique brand of physical comedy, misunderstandings, and love triangles has influenced countless sitcoms that came after it. The show’s charm lies in its ability to create moments of pure, hilarious chaos while still offering relatable, human characters.
The cast, despite their struggles, left behind a show that continues to be a symbol of classic television. Three’s Company will forever be remembered for its iconic characters, timeless humor, and the shocking truths behind the scenes that made it all possible.
Conclusion: What We Learned About the “Three’s Company” Cast
The shocking truth behind the Three’s Company cast is that it was far from the lighthearted sitcom it appeared to be on screen. While the show brought joy to millions, it also came with a fair share of behind-the-scenes tension, drama, and controversy. The cast members, particularly John Ritter, Joyce DeWitt, and Suzanne Somers, each faced their own struggles while contributing to the show’s success.
Though the drama may have been real, Three’s Company remains a cherished part of TV history, with a legacy that endures even today. Fans can still watch the show and appreciate its humor, but now, they can also understand the hidden truths that made it all happen.
FAQs:
1. Why did Suzanne Somers leave “Three’s Company”?
Suzanne Somers left Three’s Company after a public dispute over her salary demands. She requested a significant pay raise, which was denied, leading to her being written off the show.
2. Was there a feud between Suzanne Somers and John Ritter?
There were rumors of tension between Suzanne Somers and the other cast members, particularly due to her departure and the subsequent media fallout. However, John Ritter and Suzanne Somers eventually reconciled before his death.
3. How did “Three’s Company” change TV sitcoms?
Three’s Company pushed boundaries in its portrayal of sexuality, gender roles, and relationships, influencing many sitcoms that followed in the 1980s and beyond.
4. What happened to Joyce DeWitt after the show ended?
Joyce DeWitt continued acting after Three’s Company, appearing in various TV shows and films. However, she never reached the same level of fame as she did on the sitcom.
5. Why did “Three’s Company” get canceled?
The show was canceled due to a combination of declining ratings, cast changes, and behind-the-scenes conflicts that affected the show’s dynamic.
