The iconic sitcom Three’s Company (1977–1984) not only left a lasting impression on audiences, but also helped shape the careers — and lives — of its main cast. After the lights went out and the laughter stopped, each of them went on very different paths: some continued to shine, some retired from the entertainment industry, and there were also losses that left fans heartbroken.
Let’s take a look back at the journeys of the main cast after Three’s Company.
1. John Ritter (Jack Tripper): The Comedic Hero and the Tragic Ending
John Ritter was the soul of Three’s Company with the role of Jack Tripper – a charming, humorous guy who specializes in causing both funny and sad misunderstandings. After the series’ resounding success, Ritter continued to maintain his form with many outstanding television and film projects such as:
Hooperman (1987–1989) – which earned him a Golden Globe nomination
Hearts Afire (1992–1995)
8 Simple Rules (2002–2003)
However, tragedy struck on September 11, 2003, when John suddenly passed away at the age of 54 due to an aortic aneurysm. His death shocked Hollywood and millions of fans. Although he has passed away, the image of Jack Tripper – one of the most classic comedy characters on American television – still lives on in the hearts of audiences.
2. Joyce DeWitt (Janet Wood): Choose Peace After Fame
In the role of Janet – a sharp, practical girl and the ideal counterpart to Jack and Chrissy – Joyce DeWitt conquered the audience with her graceful, natural acting style.
After Three’s Company ended, Joyce was not too interested in the Hollywood halo. She withdrew from the entertainment industry for many years, only occasionally participating in theater or a few small TV series. Although she did not appear regularly, Joyce still holds a special place in the hearts of fans.
In rare interviews, Joyce once confided that she did not seek fame, but cherished privacy and peace. Notably, she reunited with Suzanne Somers on television after 30 years of not seeing each other – an emotional moment that made many people cry.
3. Suzanne Somers (Chrissy Snow): The Beauty Icon and Behind-the-Scenes Wars
Chrissy Snow – the cute “girly” character with golden hair and a naive smile – became an icon thanks to Suzanne Somers’ performance. However, this role also led to one of the biggest controversies behind the scenes of American television.
Due to disagreements about salary and a request for a salary increase equal to that of the male lead John Ritter, Suzanne was eliminated from the show in season 5. Although her departure left a big void, she did not leave showbiz but turned to business.
Later, Suzanne became a successful businesswoman, writing more than 25 books on health and beauty, and selling beauty products under her name.
Tragedy struck again when Suzanne Somers passed away on October 15, 2023 – just one day before her 77th birthday, after a long battle with breast cancer. She passed away surrounded by her family, leaving an indelible legacy with her fans.
4. Richard Kline (Larry Dallas): Best Friend on Screen, Multi-talented Artist in Real Life
Playing Larry Dallas – a womanizer, Jack’s best friend – Richard Kline was a supporting but extremely beloved character. After the film ended, he continued to play many memorable supporting roles in:Matlock, The Love Boat, Hill Street Blues. Regularly appearing in Broadway plays and New York theater. Richard Kline also became a stage director and acting teacher. To this day, he still attends reunions and shares many memories of his time filming Three’s Company, especially his close friendship with John Ritter.
5. Don Knotts (Mr. Furley): Comedy Legend and Peaceful Departure
Don Knotts – who plays the eccentric but lovable landlord Mr. Furley – is a veteran actor who already had a reputation. After Three’s Company, he continued to act in movies like Pleasantville and voice over cartoons.
Knotts passed away in 2006 at the age of 81, leaving behind a huge acting legacy and millions of mourning fans. He is one of the characters that has been associated with American television comedy for decades.
6. Norman Fell & Audra Lindley (The Ropers): A Couple Who Are “Unfriendly” But Adorable
The Ropers – played by Norman Fell and Audra Lindley – are the famous neighbors and landlords of the group of friends. They were so beloved that they even had their own series (The Ropers) but they didn’t achieve the success they were hoping for.
Norman Fell died in 1998
Audra Lindley died in 1997
Although their lives didn’t last as long as their careers, they both left a special mark in the hearts of Three’s Company fans.
Conclusion: Even though they broke up, they are still a family in the hearts of fans
Three’s Company is not just an entertaining sitcom, but a cultural icon of television with actors who have become legends. Although their lives have had many twists and turns, ups and downs, or losses, each member of the cast has contributed to creating an unforgettable memory irreplaceable in the hearts of their fans. They may have left the limelight, but the laughter they brought will forever be in our hearts.
