“Three’s Company,” a hit sitcom from the late 70s and early 80s, became one of TV’s most iconic shows, delivering laughter, drama, and unforgettable moments. But beyond the comedy, there’s a story of fame, fortune, and financial success. Ever wondered how much the cast made from this beloved sitcom and who ended up the wealthiest? Let’s dive into the net worths of the stars of “Three’s Company” and find out who turned their time on the show into a fortune.
The Rise of ‘Three’s Company’: A Snapshot of Success
When “Three’s Company” first aired in 1977, it became an instant sensation. The show, which revolved around the comedic misadventures of three roommates—Jack Tripper, Chrissy Snow, and Janet Wood—captivated viewers across the country. The blend of slapstick humor, romantic entanglements, and quirky characters made it a TV classic that would run for eight seasons. But for the cast members, the show represented more than just on-screen fun; it was a gateway to financial success.
The Main Cast Members: Who Were They?
Before we explore the cast’s earnings, let’s take a quick look at the main stars who made “Three’s Company” what it was:
- John Ritter (Jack Tripper): The charming, lovable, and often bumbling Jack Tripper was played by the late John Ritter. Known for his slapstick humor and impeccable timing, Ritter was a fan favorite.
- Suzanne Somers (Chrissy Snow): As the sweet and ditsy Chrissy, Suzanne Somers made a lasting impact on the show’s audience. Her blonde beauty and humorous delivery became her trademark.
- Joyce DeWitt (Janet Wood): Playing the sensible and grounded Janet Wood, Joyce DeWitt was a steady presence on the show, often the voice of reason amid the chaos.
- Don Knotts (Ralph Furley): Don Knotts, who joined the cast later in the series, brought his signature quirky charm to the role of the hilarious landlord Ralph Furley.
Now, let’s see how their net worths compare and who emerged with the biggest fortune.
John Ritter: The Legacy of a Comedic Genius
John Ritter, the star of the show, was undoubtedly the breakout talent. His role as Jack Tripper made him a household name, and after the show ended, his career continued to flourish. Ritter went on to star in numerous TV shows, including “8 Simple Rules,” which further boosted his earnings. Tragically, Ritter passed away in 2003, but his legacy lives on.
John Ritter’s Net Worth:
At the time of his death, Ritter’s estimated net worth was $20 million. His wealth came not only from “Three’s Company” but also from his diverse acting career, which spanned TV, film, and voice work.
Suzanne Somers: From ‘Three’s Company’ to a Business Empire
Suzanne Somers’ time on “Three’s Company” as Chrissy Snow was just the beginning of her rise to fame and fortune. While her role on the show was pivotal, Somers’ post-‘Three’s Company’ success is where her financial gains really skyrocketed. She became a best-selling author, an entrepreneur, and even appeared in infomercials selling products like the ThighMaster.
Suzanne Somers’ Net Worth:
Suzanne Somers’ estimated net worth is $100 million. Her wealth is attributed not just to her acting career but also her business ventures, books, and health products. While her pay from “Three’s Company” was substantial, it’s her post-show ventures that really put her at the top.
Joyce DeWitt: The Steady Star
Joyce DeWitt portrayed the level-headed Janet Wood, one of the original roommates. While DeWitt’s career did not have as many post-show hits as some of her co-stars, she still made a solid living from “Three’s Company” and various stage and TV appearances. Though she kept a more private life after the show, DeWitt’s contribution to the success of “Three’s Company” remains undeniable.
Joyce DeWitt’s Net Worth:
Joyce DeWitt’s estimated net worth is $4 million. Though she wasn’t involved in as many high-profile projects as some of her peers, DeWitt’s earnings from “Three’s Company” and other ventures have helped her maintain a comfortable lifestyle.
Don Knotts: The Late Addition That Added Charm
Don Knotts, who played Ralph Furley, joined “Three’s Company” later in the series, but his quirky portrayal of the landlord became an essential part of the show’s later success. Knotts, known for his roles in “The Andy Griffith Show” and films like “The Ghost and Mr. Chicken,” brought his unique comedic style to the sitcom.
Don Knotts’ Net Worth:
At the time of his passing in 2006, Don Knotts had an estimated net worth of $20 million. His financial success was due to his long career in both television and film, where he earned steady work in a variety of roles.
How Much Did ‘Three’s Company’ Cast Get Paid?
While the stars of “Three’s Company” earned substantial salaries during the show’s run, it’s clear that their post-show ventures played a significant role in building their wealth.
- John Ritter’s Salary: By the later seasons of the show, John Ritter was reportedly earning around $100,000 per episode—a significant sum for the time.
- Suzanne Somers’ Salary: Suzanne Somers made headlines when she famously demanded a raise, and after some tension with the producers, she eventually earned $30,000 per episode, with additional deals outside the show.
- Joyce DeWitt’s Salary: DeWitt earned about $30,000 per episode during the series, though she did not have the same financial windfall as some of her co-stars.
- Don Knotts’ Salary: When Knotts joined the show, his salary was reportedly about $50,000 per episode.
Who Was the Richest?
When we compare the fortunes of these “Three’s Company” stars, it’s clear that Suzanne Somers stands out with a net worth of $100 million. While John Ritter’s wealth was impressive, Somers’ post-show ventures, business dealings, and endorsements propelled her to the top. Joyce DeWitt, though not as financially lucrative as her counterparts, still made a comfortable living, while Don Knotts’ legacy in both TV and film kept him wealthy throughout his life.
The Enduring Legacy of ‘Three’s Company’
“Three’s Company” may have ended its run in 1984, but the show’s impact still lingers today. It’s clear that the cast members made lasting careers out of their roles, some turning their time on the show into lucrative long-term financial success. Their combined wealth, from acting salaries to business ventures, showcases just how much the sitcom world can influence financial fortunes.
Conclusion: The Enduring Wealth of ‘Three’s Company’ Stars
In the end, the cast of “Three’s Company” remains one of the most successful sitcom ensembles in TV history. While each cast member earned significantly from the show, it was their personal ventures, post-show careers, and savvy business decisions that allowed them to build lasting wealth. From John Ritter’s legendary comedic talent to Suzanne Somers’ entrepreneurial spirit, each member of the cast turned their time on the iconic show into a substantial fortune.
FAQs
- Who was the highest-paid actor on ‘Three’s Company’? John Ritter became the highest-paid actor on the show, earning about $100,000 per episode in later seasons.
- What happened to Suzanne Somers after ‘Three’s Company’? Suzanne Somers became a successful businesswoman, author, and health products mogul, with her net worth soaring to $100 million.
- Did Don Knotts earn as much as the main cast? While Don Knotts was not part of the main cast from the start, he earned about $50,000 per episode when he joined, which was a substantial sum for a late addition.
- How did Joyce DeWitt make money after ‘Three’s Company’? After the show, Joyce DeWitt took on various acting roles in TV and theater, but she didn’t reach the same financial heights as her co-stars.
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Is ‘Three’s Company’ still popular today? Yes, “Three’s Company” remains a popular classic, frequently airing on reruns and streaming platforms, continuing to entertain new generations of viewers.
