For decades, rumors have swirled about what really went down behind the scenes of Three’s Company when Suzanne Somers left the show. Did the cast and crew actually hold a mock funeral for her? Or is this just another case of Hollywood gossip gone wild? Let’s break it all down and uncover the truth.
📌 The Rise of Three’s Company
A Comedy That Defined an Era
When Three’s Company premiered in 1977, it quickly became one of the most beloved sitcoms of its time. Starring John Ritter, Joyce DeWitt, and Suzanne Somers, the show was known for its slapstick humor, misunderstandings, and, of course, the undeniable chemistry of its cast.
Suzanne Somers: The Breakout Star
Somers played the ditzy yet lovable Chrissy Snow, a role that skyrocketed her to fame. Fans adored her comedic timing and signature giggle, making her one of the most recognizable faces on television.
🎭 The Controversy: Suzanne Somers’ Exit from Three’s Company
Why Did Suzanne Somers Leave the Show?
In 1980, after five seasons, Suzanne Somers demanded a significant pay raise—one that matched John Ritter’s salary. At the time, Ritter was earning around $150,000 per episode, while Somers was making a mere $30,000 per episode. Given her popularity, she felt she deserved equal pay.
Producers’ Harsh Response
Instead of negotiating, the producers cut her screen time dramatically, reducing Chrissy’s appearances to brief phone call scenes. By the end of Season 5, Somers was fired from the show altogether.
🕊️ The Alleged ‘Funeral’ for Suzanne Somers
Did the Cast and Crew Really ‘Bury’ Her?
One of the most persistent rumors is that after Somers was let go, the remaining cast and crew held a mock funeral to symbolize that she was “dead” to them. But did this actually happen?
John Ritter and Joyce DeWitt’s Reported Reactions
It’s no secret that tensions were high after Somers left. John Ritter and Joyce DeWitt were reportedly frustrated with her contract demands, believing they had hurt the show. However, neither publicly admitted to participating in any kind of mock funeral.
Suzanne Somers’ Own Words
In later interviews, Suzanne Somers herself confirmed that she heard rumors of the mock funeral but wasn’t there to witness it. She described it as a symbolic way for the cast and crew to move on without her.
🎥 Behind-the-Scenes Feud: What Went Wrong?
Joyce DeWitt and Suzanne Somers’ Rift
For years, Joyce DeWitt and Suzanne Somers did not speak after the drama unfolded. DeWitt felt Somers had been unprofessional in her contract negotiations, while Somers believed she was standing up for fair pay.
John Ritter’s Feelings on the Matter
While John Ritter was known for being friendly with everyone, he reportedly distanced himself from Somers after the dispute. He was deeply loyal to the show and didn’t want to risk his own career.
📺 The Aftermath: Life After Three’s Company
Suzanne Somers’ Success Beyond the Show
Despite being blacklisted from major TV roles for years, Suzanne Somers reinvented herself as an entrepreneur, talk show host, and fitness guru. Her ThighMaster infomercials became legendary, and she built a multi-million-dollar empire.
Did She Ever Make Amends?
Yes! Decades later, Suzanne Somers and Joyce DeWitt reconciled during a heartfelt reunion on Somers’ talk show. They discussed the past and put their differences behind them.
🔍 The Truth About the ‘Funeral’ Rumor
So, did the crew of Three’s Company actually hold a funeral for Suzanne Somers? The answer is unclear. While there’s no official confirmation, the rumor has persisted for years. Whether symbolic or literal, one thing is certain—Suzanne Somers’ departure left a lasting impact on the show and its cast.
📝 Final Thoughts
Hollywood is no stranger to drama, and Three’s Company was no exception. Whether or not there was a ‘funeral’ for Suzanne Somers, one thing is undeniable—she was a powerhouse talent who made a lasting mark on television. While the show went on without her, her legacy lives on in the hearts of fans.
❓ FAQs
1. Why did Suzanne Somers leave Three’s Company?
She asked for a pay raise to match John Ritter’s salary, but producers refused and eventually fired her.
2. Did the cast really hold a ‘funeral’ for Suzanne Somers?
There’s no concrete proof, but some claim it was a symbolic way to move on after her departure.
3. Did Suzanne Somers and Joyce DeWitt ever reconcile?
Yes! They made amends decades later in an emotional TV reunion.
4. What did Suzanne Somers do after leaving Three’s Company?
She built a successful career in business, health, and fitness, most notably with her ThighMaster brand.
5. How did John Ritter feel about Suzanne Somers’ exit?
He reportedly felt disappointed but remained loyal to the show and distanced himself from the drama.
