‘Three’s Company’ was a beloved sitcom that entertained audiences for years with its hilarious misunderstandings and quirky characters. However, not every cast member was thrilled with how things turned out. Recently, one of the show’s stars revealed that she was unhappy with how her character’s story concluded. But why? What really happened behind the scenes? Let’s dive into the details and uncover the truth.
A Look Back at ‘Three’s Company’
Before we get into the controversy, let’s take a moment to appreciate the cultural impact of ‘Three’s Company.’
The Show’s Premise
The sitcom, which aired from 1977 to 1984, followed the comedic misadventures of three roommates—two women and one man—trying to navigate life while pretending that the male roommate was gay to satisfy their landlord’s old-fashioned views.
The Iconic Cast
The show’s success was largely due to its incredible cast, which included:
- John Ritter as the lovable and clumsy Jack Tripper
- Joyce DeWitt as the responsible and level-headed Janet Wood
- Suzanne Somers as the ditzy yet charming Chrissy Snow
Which Star Was Unhappy With Their Character’s Ending?
The actress in question recently admitted that she was dissatisfied with how her character’s arc wrapped up. Though she didn’t outright bash the show, she did express disappointment over how her role was handled in the later seasons.
Suzanne Somers and Chrissy Snow’s Exit
One of the most publicized exits from ‘Three’s Company’ was that of Suzanne Somers. She played Chrissy Snow, a character adored for her comedic timing and airheaded yet lovable personality. However, due to contract disputes, she left the show in season 5, and her character was written out in a rather abrupt manner.
- Somers had demanded a salary equal to John Ritter’s, which the producers refused.
- She was ultimately replaced by other blonde characters, but none quite captured the same charm as Chrissy.
Joyce DeWitt’s Discontent?
While Joyce DeWitt (Janet Wood) remained on the show until the very end, she, too, had issues with how her character was treated. As the series progressed, Janet’s character development took a backseat, and she often played second fiddle to newer additions to the cast.
Why Was There So Much Behind-the-Scenes Drama?
It’s not uncommon for long-running sitcoms to have internal conflicts. But ‘Three’s Company’ had its fair share of controversies.
Creative Differences and Power Struggles
The show’s producers had a very specific vision for how things should go, and when actors pushed back, tensions arose. Some cast members felt their characters were being sidelined or not given the proper development they deserved.
The Role of Network Politics
The network had its own priorities—ratings and advertising revenue. If a character or actor was causing too much trouble behind the scenes, they had no problem writing them off the show.
Did the Fans Notice the Changes?
Yes! Many loyal viewers felt the show wasn’t the same after certain cast departures.
The Decline in Ratings
As some of the original cast members left, ratings started to dip. While the show still had its charm, audiences couldn’t help but notice the chemistry wasn’t quite the same.
The Final Season’s Struggles
By the time ‘Three’s Company’ reached its last season, it was clear that the magic had faded. The show attempted to introduce new characters, but they never quite resonated with fans the way the original trio did.
How Did the Show Officially End?
The final season wrapped up with Jack Tripper finding love and moving on, while Janet also received a somewhat satisfying ending. However, for many fans—and even some of the cast—it didn’t feel like a truly fitting send-off.
What Does the Star Say Today?
Years later, the actress who spoke out about her character’s fate still looks back at ‘Three’s Company’ with appreciation but acknowledges the disappointment she felt. She has shared that, while she loved playing her character, she wished she had been given more control over how things ended.
The Lasting Legacy of ‘Three’s Company’
Despite any behind-the-scenes drama, ‘Three’s Company’ remains one of the most beloved sitcoms of all time.
Cultural Impact
- The show pushed boundaries for its time, especially with its portrayal of co-ed living arrangements.
- It introduced audiences to comedic storytelling that still holds up today.
Still a Fan Favorite
Even decades later, reruns of ‘Three’s Company’ continue to entertain new generations. The show’s humor, charm, and iconic moments ensure its place in TV history.
Conclusion: A Bittersweet Reflection
While ‘Three’s Company’ gave us laughter and unforgettable characters, it’s clear that not every cast member was thrilled with how things turned out. Whether due to creative disputes, behind-the-scenes politics, or personal expectations, it’s a reminder that even the most beloved shows have their share of untold stories.
FAQs
1. Which ‘Three’s Company’ star was unhappy with their character’s ending?
Suzanne Somers and Joyce DeWitt both had issues with how their characters were handled, though Somers’ exit was the most controversial.
2. Why did Suzanne Somers leave ‘Three’s Company’?
She left due to a contract dispute after requesting equal pay to John Ritter. The producers refused, and she was written off the show.
3. Did ‘Three’s Company’ suffer after major cast changes?
Yes, ratings declined as original cast members left, and many fans felt the chemistry wasn’t the same.
4. How did ‘Three’s Company’ end?
The final season wrapped up with Jack Tripper finding love, while Janet’s story also concluded. However, some felt it lacked a truly satisfying farewell.
5. Is ‘Three’s Company’ still popular today?
Absolutely! The show remains a fan favorite, with reruns still drawing in audiences who love its classic humor and charm.
