“Three’s Company,” a beloved sitcom that aired from 1977 to 1984, became a cultural phenomenon during its time on the air. The show, which was centered around three roommates—Jack Tripper, Janet Wood, and Chrissy Snow—was known for its humor, slapstick comedy, and lighthearted scenarios. But behind the laughter and on-screen chemistry, a much darker and more complicated story brewed between the cast members. While the show captured the hearts of millions, the off-screen drama between its stars led to a decades-long falling out that left many fans stunned.
In this article, we’ll dive into the deep reasons behind the fallout among the stars of Three’s Company, uncovering the secrets, the rivalry, and the complex relationships that spiraled into years of tension. So, what really happened? And why did the cast members go from being a tight-knit family to estranged colleagues? Let’s explore!
The Birth of Three’s Company: A Dream Team on Screen
Before we delve into the controversies, let’s first remember what made Three’s Company so unforgettable. The sitcom starred John Ritter as Jack Tripper, Suzanne Somers as Chrissy Snow, and Joyce DeWitt as Janet Wood. The chemistry between the three actors was undeniable, and viewers loved the dynamic of the quirky, good-natured Jack, the beautiful and naive Chrissy, and the sensible and grounded Janet.
Why did audiences fall in love with these characters? It was the perfect combination of comedic timing, memorable characters, and the light-hearted premise that drew people in. At first, it seemed like nothing could ruin the magic of the show.
The Rise of Suzanne Somers and the Beginning of the Tension
Despite the massive success of the show, not all was well behind the scenes. Suzanne Somers, who played Chrissy Snow, began to grow increasingly dissatisfied with her role on the show. She felt that her character wasn’t evolving and that she was underpaid compared to her co-stars. In fact, by the third season, Somers made a bold move to renegotiate her contract, asking for a significant salary increase.
Did Suzanne’s salary demands spark the drama? Well, not exactly. The real turning point came when Somers publicly demanded a raise that would bring her salary in line with John Ritter’s. This didn’t sit well with the producers, and tensions began to rise. Suzanne’s demands led to her being written out of the show temporarily, which only escalated the conflict.
The Departure of Suzanne Somers: The Fallout Begins
In 1981, after a failed contract negotiation, Suzanne Somers was let go from Three’s Company. Her departure shocked both the cast and the audience. Was this the beginning of the end? It certainly played a huge role in what happened next.
After Somers left, the show brought in a new character, Cindy Snow, played by Jenilee Harrison, and later, Terri Alden, played by Priscilla Barnes. However, the void left by Chrissy Snow was noticeable, and the show’s chemistry began to shift.
John Ritter and Joyce DeWitt’s Role in the Fallout
The real heart of the Three’s Company drama lies in the relationship between John Ritter and Suzanne Somers. While Ritter was initially seen as a peacemaker, the growing tension between Somers and the rest of the cast began to take its toll. How did John Ritter handle it? Although Ritter never publicly sided with either party, it was clear that the dynamics between him and Somers were strained.
Joyce DeWitt, on the other hand, remained somewhat neutral. But did this affect her relationship with Somers? Unfortunately, yes. Somers and DeWitt, who had once shared a close friendship, became estranged following Suzanne’s exit from the show. The lack of communication and growing resentment between them led to a long-term rift.
A Decade of Silence: The Years After the Show Ended
After Three’s Company ended in 1984, the cast went their separate ways. For many years, there was little to no public communication between the stars. The unresolved issues between them simmered below the surface, leaving fans wondering whether they would ever reconcile.
The truth is, the bitterness was more than just a behind-the-scenes issue—it was personal. What was at the heart of this feud? For Somers, it was about respect, career advancement, and her desire for equal pay. For Ritter and DeWitt, it was about betrayal and broken friendships.
The Reunion and the Rekindling of Old Wounds
In the years that followed, there were multiple opportunities for a Three’s Company reunion, but each attempt seemed to bring up old wounds. Were the actors ready to move on? For some, the answer was no.
In the early 2000s, when talk of a Three’s Company reunion began to surface again, it became clear that the rift between the stars was still there. Somers publicly admitted that she hadn’t spoken to DeWitt for years and that their relationship was beyond repair. Could they ever mend their fractured bond?
The Aftermath: What Happened to the Cast Members?
- John Ritter continued to have a successful career in Hollywood, with notable roles in series like 8 Simple Rules. His untimely death in 2003 was a devastating blow to the entertainment world.
- Joyce DeWitt remained active in the industry, but her career didn’t hit the same heights as her co-stars. However, she maintained a relatively low profile, avoiding public drama.
- Suzanne Somers experienced ups and downs in her career. While she had a successful stint on Step by Step, her post-Three’s Company years were marked by controversy, including a high-profile feud with her Step by Step co-star.
The Final Chapter: The Cast’s Reflections on the Feud
In the years leading up to their deaths, some of the cast members offered reflections on the drama that defined much of their careers. Suzanne Somers, in particular, has discussed the falling out with her co-stars openly, sharing her side of the story in interviews and memoirs. Did the cast ever truly reconcile? The answer seems to be no. Despite various attempts at reconciliation, the tension remained unresolved for the majority of the cast.
What Can We Learn from the Three’s Company Feud?
The Three’s Company saga is more than just a tale of behind-the-scenes drama—it’s a cautionary tale about fame, money, and relationships. The fallout among the stars of the show highlights how fragile celebrity friendships can be, and how quickly success can turn into conflict. What is the moral of the story? Sometimes, fame and fortune can come at a personal cost, and even the closest friendships can fracture under pressure.
Conclusion: The Legacy of Three’s Company’s Fallout
While the cast of Three’s Company will forever be remembered for their iconic roles, the real story behind the scenes—filled with rivalry, broken relationships, and personal turmoil—adds another layer of complexity to their legacy. The decades-long falling out among the stars serves as a reminder that the entertainment industry isn’t always as glamorous as it seems. Behind every laugh, there can be a story of hardship, and the drama between the Three’s Company cast is a testament to that.
FAQs:
- What caused the rift between the Three’s Company stars?
- The rift stemmed from salary disputes, professional jealousy, and personal differences, particularly involving Suzanne Somers’ contract negotiations.
- Did John Ritter and Suzanne Somers ever reconcile?
- No, John Ritter and Suzanne Somers never fully reconciled before his death in 2003.
- Why did Suzanne Somers leave Three’s Company?
- Suzanne Somers left the show after a failed contract negotiation where she demanded a higher salary and more screen time.
- Was there any chance for a Three’s Company reunion?
- Several reunion attempts were made, but the unresolved tensions among the cast prevented a successful reunion from happening.
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How did the falling out impact the careers of the cast members?
- The falling out affected the public image and personal relationships among the cast, though they continued to work in the industry, albeit in different capacities.
