Three’s Company is one of the most iconic sitcoms of the 1970s and 1980s, and it remains a beloved piece of television history. The show, which first aired in 1977, introduced us to unforgettable characters, hilarious situations, and unforgettable moments that we still talk about today. But the question that often pops up is, “Are any of the original Three’s Company cast members still living?”
In this article, we’ll explore the fates of the beloved stars of Three’s Company. From their rise to fame to their lives today, we’ll answer your burning question and take a deep dive into their journeys.
The Iconic ‘Three’s Company’ Cast: A Brief Overview
Before we dive into the question of whether any Three’s Company stars are still alive, let’s quickly recap the main cast members who made the show a household name.
Three’s Company starred:
- John Ritter as Jack Tripper
- Suzanne Somers as Chrissy Snow
- Joyce DeWitt as Janet Wood
- Richard Kline as Larry Dallas
- Don Knotts as Ralph Furley (who replaced Norman Fell’s Mr. Roper)
- Norman Fell as Mr. Roper
Each of these actors brought something special to the show, creating the unforgettable dynamic that made Three’s Company such a hit. But where are they now? Let’s find out.
John Ritter: The Heart of the Show
John Ritter was undoubtedly the star of Three’s Company. As Jack Tripper, the charming, goofy, and always well-meaning bachelor, he became an instant fan favorite. But sadly, John Ritter passed away unexpectedly in 2003 at the age of 54.
His death, caused by an aortic dissection, shocked the world and left a lasting impact on his fans and co-stars alike. His contribution to television, including his later work on 8 Simple Rules, continues to be remembered and celebrated by fans worldwide.
Suzanne Somers: From Chrissy to Icon
Suzanne Somers played the bubbly and somewhat naïve Chrissy Snow, one of Jack’s roommates. Chrissy’s lovable personality and hilarious antics made her an essential part of the show’s success. But where is Suzanne now?
As of today, Suzanne Somers is alive and well, continuing to build her brand and career. Over the years, she has become a health and wellness advocate, author, and businesswoman. Her journey after Three’s Company has been filled with triumphs, including her long-running infomercial empire and bestselling books.
Joyce DeWitt: Janet’s Journey
Joyce DeWitt portrayed Janet Wood, the sensible and grounded third roommate. After Three’s Company ended, Joyce took a break from the spotlight, pursuing a variety of projects in television, film, and theater.
Though Joyce DeWitt has kept a relatively low profile over the years, she is still alive and occasionally participates in interviews and reunions with her former castmates. Her life post-Three’s Company has been more private, but her fans continue to support her work.
Richard Kline: Larry Dallas – Still the Fun Guy
Richard Kline, who played Larry Dallas, Jack’s mischievous and womanizing friend, brought a different energy to the show. Larry’s constant scheming and comic timing made him a memorable character in the series.
Today, Richard Kline is still alive and active in the entertainment industry, making appearances in television and film. While not in the spotlight as much as in his Three’s Company days, Kline has remained a fixture in the entertainment world and occasionally reunites with his former cast members.
Don Knotts: Ralph Furley, The New Landlord
Don Knotts became the new landlord of the apartment building in Three’s Company, replacing Norman Fell’s Mr. Roper. As the bumbling and often clueless Ralph Furley, Don Knotts provided some of the most memorable laughs in the show’s later seasons.
Unfortunately, Don Knotts passed away in 2006 at the age of 81. His legacy, however, lives on through his iconic roles, including his work on The Andy Griffith Show and in numerous films. Fans continue to celebrate his contributions to television and comedy.
Norman Fell: The Original Mr. Roper
Norman Fell played Mr. Roper, the original landlord who was often suspicious of Jack’s living arrangement with two women. His comedic timing and deadpan delivery made Mr. Roper one of the show’s standout characters.
Sadly, Norman Fell passed away in 1998 from cancer. His career spanned decades, and his legacy as one of television’s finest comedic actors remains strong. Fans still fondly remember his time on Three’s Company and the characters he brought to life.
The Impact of ‘Three’s Company’ on Pop Culture
Three’s Company wasn’t just a sitcom; it became a cultural phenomenon. The show pushed boundaries with its comedic approach to relationships, gender roles, and the concept of roommates. It was a trailblazer in many ways, paving the way for future sitcoms that would also tackle unconventional living situations.
The show’s quirky humor and memorable characters are still referenced in pop culture today, and its legacy endures in reruns, streaming platforms, and fan communities. Its influence can be seen in modern shows, as well as in the continued fondness people have for its cast and characters.
Where Are They Now? The Cast’s Current Status
Now that we’ve covered the fates of the original Three’s Company stars, let’s recap the current status of the cast:
- John Ritter: Sadly passed away in 2003.
- Suzanne Somers: Alive and thriving, with a career in wellness and business.
- Joyce DeWitt: Alive, though living a more private life.
- Richard Kline: Alive and active in the entertainment industry.
- Don Knotts: Passed away in 2006, leaving behind a rich legacy.
- Norman Fell: Passed away in 1998, but remembered for his iconic role as Mr. Roper.
The Legacy of ‘Three’s Company’
Even though many of the Three’s Company cast members have passed away, their influence on television comedy remains. The show continues to inspire new generations of viewers, and the cast’s contributions to the entertainment industry are unforgettable.
Conclusion: Remembering the Legends of ‘Three’s Company’
Three’s Company may have aired its final episode years ago, but its impact is still felt today. While some of the cast members have passed, their legacy endures through their work and the joy they brought to millions of viewers. We’ll always remember the laughs, the heart, and the unforgettable chemistry of the Three’s Company cast.
FAQs
- How did John Ritter die? John Ritter passed away from an aortic dissection in 2003. His death was sudden and left fans and the entertainment world in shock.
- Is Suzanne Somers still married? Yes, Suzanne Somers has been married to Alan Hamel since 1977. They have been together for decades and often share their life together in the media.
- Did Joyce DeWitt ever return to television after ‘Three’s Company’? While Joyce DeWitt kept a lower profile after the show ended, she did return to acting in various television and theater productions, including guest appearances and indie films.
- Who replaced Don Knotts on the show? Don Knotts replaced Norman Fell as the landlord, but after his departure, the character of Ralph Furley remained a central comedic figure in the show’s final years.
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Why did Suzanne Somers leave ‘Three’s Company’? Suzanne Somers was written out of the show after a salary dispute with the producers. Her character, Chrissy Snow, was later replaced by a new character, Cindy Snow.
