If you’re a fan of classic TV sitcoms, then Three’s Company is a name that’s hard to forget. One of the most beloved shows of the 1970s, Three’s Company was filled with laughs, quirky characters, and memorable moments. But there was one moment that shocked fans and left the public wondering: why did Suzanne Somers leave the hit show? Her exit from Three’s Company remains one of the most talked-about stories in TV history, and the truth behind her departure has long been shrouded in mystery. Let’s dive into the real story behind Suzanne Somers’ exit from Three’s Company and uncover what really happened.
Suzanne Somers and Her Role as Chrissy Snow
The Rise of Chrissy Snow
Before diving into the drama surrounding her departure, let’s first take a moment to appreciate Suzanne Somers’ breakthrough role as Chrissy Snow. When Three’s Company premiered in 1977, it introduced viewers to the lovable, ditzy blonde Chrissy, portrayed by Somers. Chrissy quickly became one of the standout characters on the show, thanks to Somers’ perfect blend of humor and charm. Her portrayal of the “dumb blonde” stereotype turned into one of the most iconic roles of the decade.
The Popularity of the Show
Three’s Company became a sensation almost overnight. The show’s outrageous humor and ensemble cast, which included John Ritter as Jack Tripper and Joyce DeWitt as Janet Wood, made it a cultural phenomenon. Suzanne Somers, as Chrissy, was a vital part of the show’s success. So what went wrong? Why did Somers leave this beloved series when it was at its peak?
The Controversy Behind Suzanne Somers’ Departure
The Salary Dispute: More Than Just Money
One of the primary reasons for Suzanne Somers’ departure from Three’s Company was a salary dispute. At the time, Somers was asking for a significant raise, hoping to be paid on par with John Ritter, who had become the highest-paid actor on the show. While Ritter was making a substantial salary, Somers felt that her character, Chrissy Snow, was equally crucial to the show’s success. She requested a raise from $30,000 per episode to $150,000—an ambitious but not unheard-of request for a show of that magnitude.
The Show’s Response: A Standoff
However, the producers and executives at Three’s Company weren’t willing to meet her demands. They offered her a much smaller raise, which Somers rejected. This led to a standoff, with the producers ultimately deciding to write her character out of the show. The official storyline explanation for Chrissy’s departure was that she moved away to be with her family, but in reality, it was the salary dispute that led to her exit.
Did Suzanne Somers’ Exit Mark the End of an Era?
When Suzanne Somers left the show, it wasn’t just a loss of one actor—it was the end of an era for Three’s Company. Chrissy’s character had been a fan favorite, and without her, the dynamic of the show would never be the same. The producers tried to fill the void by introducing new characters, including Cindy Snow, Chrissy’s cousin, played by Jenilee Harrison, but it wasn’t the same. Fans felt the absence of Somers’ iconic character, and the show’s ratings began to slip in the following seasons.
The Fallout: Suzanne Somers and the Cast
The Tension Between Somers and the Cast
It’s not just the producers who were involved in the drama—there was also tension between Suzanne Somers and her co-stars. While John Ritter and Joyce DeWitt were both extremely talented and well-loved, the behind-the-scenes dynamic was far from harmonious. Somers later revealed in interviews that there was animosity between her and Ritter, particularly as the salary dispute worsened.
John Ritter’s Response
John Ritter, known for his charming and lighthearted personality, didn’t hold back his feelings about Suzanne Somers’ departure. While he expressed sadness over her exit, it’s been reported that Ritter was frustrated by the situation, especially since he had been one of the top earners on the show and didn’t see why Somers’ request for a raise was such a big issue. The public drama between the actors wasn’t a secret, and it added fuel to the fire surrounding Somers’ exit.
Joyce DeWitt’s Reaction
Joyce DeWitt, who played Janet, was caught in the middle. While she didn’t openly take sides, it’s been said that she was disappointed by the way things went down. Somers herself later revealed that DeWitt had been supportive, though she was also concerned about the direction the show was taking without Somers. The chemistry between the original cast was undeniable, and without Chrissy, it was hard to replicate that magic.
Life After ‘Three’s Company’: Suzanne Somers’ Career and Legacy
The Aftermath of Leaving the Show
After her departure from Three’s Company, Suzanne Somers faced challenges but also embraced new opportunities. Somers went on to have a successful career in the entertainment industry, starring in shows like Step by Step and embarking on a lucrative career in infomercials. Despite the drama surrounding her exit, Somers continued to build her brand and maintain a successful public persona.
Suzanne Somers’ Impact on Pop Culture
Even after leaving Three’s Company, Suzanne Somers continued to be an influential figure in pop culture. Her role as Chrissy Snow remains iconic, and she has often referenced it in interviews and public appearances. Somers’ career trajectory post-Three’s Company was a testament to her ability to reinvent herself, proving that she was more than just a one-hit wonder.
The Legacy of ‘Three’s Company’
As for Three’s Company, the show continued on for a few more seasons, but it never quite recaptured the magic of the original trio. It’s widely believed that Suzanne Somers’ departure marked the beginning of the end for the show, though it still holds a special place in the hearts of fans worldwide. The dynamic between Ritter, DeWitt, and Somers was a unique one, and no amount of recasting could replace it.
The Truth About ‘Three’s Company’: What We Can Learn
Money, Power, and Celebrity Conflict
Suzanne Somers’ departure from Three’s Company serves as a reminder of how the entertainment industry can be fraught with conflict over money, power, and egos. While it’s easy to focus on the drama, it’s important to remember that these decisions have real-life consequences for everyone involved, from the actors to the fans.
The Importance of Negotiation and Self-Worth
Somers’ insistence on fighting for what she felt she was worth is a valuable lesson in self-advocacy. While the situation didn’t end in her favor, it highlights the importance of understanding your worth in any industry. Whether in entertainment, business, or any other field, standing up for yourself is crucial to maintaining respect and value.
Conclusion: The End of Chrissy, But Not Suzanne Somers
In the end, Suzanne Somers’ exit from Three’s Company was a complicated, multi-faceted situation involving salary disputes, behind-the-scenes tension, and shifting dynamics within the cast. While her departure was a loss for the show, it was by no means the end of Suzanne Somers’ career. Her ability to reinvent herself and continue to find success in the entertainment industry shows that one setback didn’t define her legacy. For fans, Chrissy Snow will always remain an unforgettable character, and her exit only adds to the fascinating history of one of television’s most iconic sitcoms.
FAQs
- Why did Suzanne Somers leave Three’s Company?
Suzanne Somers left the show due to a salary dispute with the producers. She asked for a significant raise, which was not met, leading to her departure. - How did Suzanne Somers’ exit affect Three’s Company?
Her departure led to a noticeable shift in the show’s dynamic, and it struggled to regain the same level of success without her character, Chrissy Snow. - What was the fallout between Suzanne Somers and her co-stars?
There was tension between Suzanne Somers, John Ritter, and Joyce DeWitt during and after the salary dispute, with some reports indicating animosity between Somers and Ritter. - What did Suzanne Somers do after leaving Three’s Company?
After leaving the show, Suzanne Somers went on to have a successful career in TV and infomercials, maintaining a strong public presence. -
Is Suzanne Somers’ role as Chrissy Snow still remembered?
Yes, Suzanne Somers’ portrayal of Chrissy Snow remains iconic, and the character is still fondly remembered by fans of Three’s Company.
