Hollywood is no stranger to drama, both on and off-screen. But few feuds have lasted as long—or remained as mysterious—as the one between ‘Three’s Company’ stars Joyce DeWitt and Suzanne Somers. The duo, who once shared the spotlight on one of TV’s most iconic sitcoms, didn’t speak for over 30 years. But what really happened? Let’s dive deep into the untold story behind their decades-long silence.
The Rise of ‘Three’s Company’: A Sitcom That Defined a Generation
A Comedy Classic
‘Three’s Company’ premiered in 1977, starring John Ritter, Joyce DeWitt, and Suzanne Somers. The show was a huge hit, thanks to its witty humor, quirky misunderstandings, and undeniable chemistry between the three lead actors.
Suzanne Somers: The Breakout Star
While all three leads were beloved, Suzanne Somers quickly became a fan favorite as Chrissy Snow, the lovable but ditzy blonde. Her popularity skyrocketed, making her a household name.
Joyce DeWitt: The Underrated Talent
On the other hand, Joyce DeWitt played Janet Wood, the sensible and level-headed roommate. While she was a crucial part of the show’s success, she didn’t receive the same level of attention as Somers.
What Went Wrong? The Moment That Sparked a 30-Year Feud
Suzanne Somers’ Salary Dispute
In 1980, after four successful seasons, Suzanne Somers demanded a salary increase. She was reportedly earning $30,000 per episode, while John Ritter was making $150,000. She requested equal pay, believing she was just as valuable to the show.
Producers Said No—And So Did Joyce DeWitt
The network refused her request, and when she continued to push, they cut her screen time and eventually wrote her off the show.
Joyce DeWitt’s Reaction
While many expected Joyce DeWitt to support her co-star, she stayed out of the dispute. Some reports suggest that DeWitt believed Somers was being greedy and putting her personal interests ahead of the show’s success.
30 Years of Silence: Why They Never Reconciled Sooner
Hurt Feelings & Public Statements
Both actresses made public comments over the years that only deepened the rift. Somers claimed DeWitt and Ritter had refused to talk to her after her departure, while DeWitt believed Somers was trying to manipulate the situation for personal gain.
John Ritter’s Death & Missed Opportunities
When John Ritter tragically passed away in 2003, many hoped it would bring DeWitt and Somers back together. However, they still didn’t speak, proving just how deep the divide had become.
Suzanne Somers’ Rise to Fame Outside of Acting
While DeWitt largely stayed out of the spotlight, Somers built a massive empire with fitness products, books, and talk shows. Some speculated that her post-‘Three’s Company’ success may have also played a role in their distance.
The Shocking Reunion: How They Finally Made Amends
A TV Show Changed Everything
In 2012, Suzanne Somers invited Joyce DeWitt onto her online talk show, “Breaking Through.” After 30+ years of no contact, the two finally sat down face-to-face.
Clearing the Air
During the emotional interview, both actresses admitted that miscommunication and hurt feelings had kept them apart. They acknowledged that time had given them new perspectives, and they both regretted not reaching out sooner.
A Heartfelt Hug & Moving Forward
The interview ended with a heartfelt hug, showing that time truly heals all wounds. Fans who had waited decades for this moment were thrilled to see the two legends reunite.
What Can We Learn from This Hollywood Feud?
1. Miscommunication Can Destroy Relationships
Much of the tension between DeWitt and Somers came from assumptions and lack of communication. This happens in friendships, families, and even workplaces.
2. Time Doesn’t Always Heal—Action Does
They spent three decades apart simply because neither took the first step to reconnect. If you’re holding a grudge, consider reaching out—you might be surprised at the outcome.
3. Success Shouldn’t Come at the Cost of Friendship
Somers fought for what she believed she deserved, but in the process, she lost a close friendship. It’s a reminder that while ambition is important, relationships matter too.
Conclusion: A Lesson in Forgiveness & Second Chances
Joyce DeWitt and Suzanne Somers’ 30-year silence serves as a powerful lesson on the importance of communication, forgiveness, and perspective. Their story reminds us that no matter how much time has passed, reconciliation is always possible.
Hollywood may be full of feuds, but this one had a rare happy ending—proving that even the biggest rifts can be healed with time, honesty, and a willingness to let go of the past.
FAQs
1. Why did Joyce DeWitt and Suzanne Somers stop talking?
Their fallout began in 1980 when Suzanne Somers demanded a salary increase. After she was fired, DeWitt reportedly didn’t support her, leading to decades of silence.
2. How long did Joyce DeWitt and Suzanne Somers go without speaking?
They didn’t speak for over 30 years, from 1980 until 2012, when they finally reunited on Somers’ talk show.
3. Did John Ritter try to reconcile them before his passing?
There’s no confirmed report that Ritter attempted to reunite them, but he did maintain friendships with both. Unfortunately, his passing in 2003 didn’t bring them back together at the time.
4. Are Joyce DeWitt and Suzanne Somers friends now?
After their 2012 reunion, they made peace and seemed to have repaired their friendship, but they weren’t publicly close afterward.
5. Did Suzanne Somers regret leaving ‘Three’s Company’?
While she fought for equal pay, she later admitted that the way things unfolded was unfortunate, and she wished she had handled the situation differently.
