‘Three’s Company’ became a groundbreaking sitcom that aired from 1977 to 1984. The show was a cultural phenomenon, blending slapstick humor, sitcom antics, and unforgettable characters. It follows Jack Tripper, Janet Wood, and Chrissy Snow as roommates living together in a hilarious but sometimes tumultuous world.
But beyond the laughs and the catchphrases, there’s a lot more going on behind the scenes. What made the cast and the show so unique? And where are the stars today?
Let’s dive into the behind the scenes secrets of the ‘Three’s Company’ cast and take a look at how time has treated these beloved stars.
The Cast That Defined an Era: Who Were the Key Players?
Jack Tripper: The Lovable Clown
Jack Tripper, portrayed by the iconic John Ritter, was the heart of ‘Three’s Company.’ With his clumsy antics and infectious charm, Ritter quickly became a household name. Jack’s personality was a delightful mix of vulnerability and comedy, making him one of TV’s most lovable characters.
Chrissy Snow: The Blonde Bombshell with a Heart of Gold
Chrissy Snow, played by Suzanne Somers, brought a unique blend of innocence and naïve charm to the show. Her character, while often ditsy, was adored by fans for her sweetness and unintentional comedic timing.
Janet Wood: The Smart, Sassy Roommate
Janet Wood, portrayed by Joyce DeWitt, was the grounded character in the trio. As the sensible, level-headed roommate, Janet played the foil to Jack’s goofy antics and Chrissy’s airheadedness. Her no-nonsense attitude made her the glue holding the roommates together.
Behind the Laughs: What You Didn’t Know About ‘Three’s Company’
A Unique Setup: The Show’s Concept Almost Didn’t Happen
The original idea for ‘Three’s Company’ was considered controversial. The premise, which involved a man living with two women under the guise of being gay to avoid scandal, was groundbreaking. It pushed boundaries and paved the way for future sitcoms that dared to tackle bold topics.
However, the show’s creators had to fight hard to get this idea on the air. It faced plenty of resistance, but once it aired, it became a massive success.
The Real Drama Behind the Scenes: Suzanne Somers’ Departure
Though Suzanne Somers played one of the main characters, her time on the show was not without controversy. After several seasons, Somers left ‘Three’s Company’ due to a salary dispute. She was demanding a raise, but when the network refused, she was written off the show, leading to her departure in Season 6.
This sudden exit led to the introduction of new characters, like Terri Alden, played by Priscilla Barnes, who took over Chrissy’s role as the third roommate.
John Ritter’s Leadership: How He Held the Show Together
John Ritter, with his impeccable comedic timing and ability to take on physical comedy, was the linchpin that kept the show running smoothly. His connection with his co-stars was palpable, and he became a father figure to many on set.
Ritter’s leadership and ability to improvise helped make ‘Three’s Company’ an enduring classic, despite the ups and downs behind the scenes.
Life After ‘Three’s Company’: Where Are the Cast Members Now?
John Ritter: A Legacy That Lives On
John Ritter’s untimely death in 2003 left a void in Hollywood. He continued to work after ‘Three’s Company,’ starring in shows like ‘8 Simple Rules,’ which cemented his status as a beloved TV actor. His death was deeply mourned, and his legacy as one of television’s best comedic actors remains strong.
Suzanne Somers: From TV Star to Health Guru
After her departure from ‘Three’s Company,’ Suzanne Somers found new avenues for success. She became a health and wellness expert, writing books, launching fitness products, and even hosting her own infomercials. Despite her rocky exit from the show, Somers became a well-known advocate for healthy living.
Joyce DeWitt: A Quiet Life After ‘Three’s Company’
Joyce DeWitt, who portrayed Janet, largely stayed out of the limelight after the show’s conclusion. She made occasional television appearances and starred in theater productions, but she preferred to live a relatively low-key life away from the public eye.
Priscilla Barnes: Stepping Into Chrissy’s Shoes
Priscilla Barnes joined the show in Season 6 as the new roommate, Terri. After ‘Three’s Company,’ she went on to appear in several TV shows and movies. Though she never reached the same level of fame as her predecessors, Barnes continued to work in the entertainment industry and became a regular face on TV in the ‘80s and ‘90s.
The Impact of ‘Three’s Company’ on Television
Pioneering the ‘Odd Couple’ Dynamic in Sitcoms
‘Three’s Company’ took the formula of odd couples and turned it on its head. The dynamics between Jack, Janet, and Chrissy (and later, Terri) were groundbreaking. It set the stage for countless sitcoms to follow with unlikely roommates and hilarious misunderstandings, proving that opposites can make for the best comedic chemistry.
Influence on Future Sitcoms and TV Shows
Shows like ‘Friends,’ ‘New Girl,’ and ‘The Big Bang Theory’ owe a lot to the success of ‘Three’s Company.’ It influenced future TV comedies that featured ensemble casts living together under one roof.
The quirky mix of characters in ‘Three’s Company’ helped establish the formula of comedic sitcoms that still thrives today.
The Iconic Catchphrases and Moments
From Jack’s exaggerated slapstick falls to Chrissy’s innocent misunderstandings, ‘Three’s Company’ is remembered for its unforgettable moments. Iconic lines like Jack’s “I’m just a boy trying to get by” and Chrissy’s “You’re just a funny guy” have become etched in TV history.
These moments not only defined the show but also became part of the cultural lexicon, still quoted by fans to this day.
Conclusion: A Timeless Classic
‘Three’s Company’ holds a special place in television history. The incredible chemistry between its cast, combined with its bold, sometimes controversial premise, made the show a standout in the late ‘70s and ‘80s. Though time has passed, the cast’s legacy continues to influence the world of comedy.
Despite the drama and challenges behind the scenes, ‘Three’s Company’ will forever be a classic sitcom, remembered for its charm, wit, and unforgettable moments.
FAQs
1. Why did Suzanne Somers leave ‘Three’s Company’?
Suzanne Somers left the show after a salary dispute, demanding a significant raise that was ultimately denied. She was written off the show in Season 6.
2. What was the real dynamic between the ‘Three’s Company’ cast members?
While the characters’ relationships were often chaotic on screen, off-screen, John Ritter was known to have been a guiding and supportive figure to his co-stars, especially in navigating the ups and downs of the show.
3. How did ‘Three’s Company’ influence future TV sitcoms?
The show helped establish the ‘odd couple’ dynamic, influencing sitcoms like ‘Friends’ and ‘The Big Bang Theory’ that focused on unlikely roommates and their quirky relationships.
4. What happened to John Ritter after ‘Three’s Company’?
After ‘Three’s Company,’ John Ritter starred in shows like ‘8 Simple Rules,’ earning accolades for his comedic skills before his untimely passing in 2003.
5. Was ‘Three’s Company’ controversial?
Yes, the show’s premise involving a man living with two women under the guise of being gay was considered controversial at the time but ultimately became a defining characteristic of the sitcom genre.
