John Ritter, Suzanne Somers, and Joyce DeWitt were the faces of one of the most beloved sitcoms of the late 1970s and early 1980s—Three’s Company. Their chemistry was electric, their comedic timing unmatched, and their off-screen drama legendary. But decades later, an unexpected twist almost brought them back together on 8 Simple Rules, a show that was shaping up to be another classic for Ritter.
So, what happened? Why didn’t the long-awaited reunion take place? And how close did we get to seeing these three iconic actors share the screen one last time? Let’s dive into the untold story of the near-reunion that could have been one of TV’s most unforgettable moments.
The Legacy of Three’s Company
A Sitcom That Defined an Era
When Three’s Company premiered in 1977, it quickly became one of ABC’s highest-rated shows. With John Ritter as the lovable klutz Jack Tripper, Suzanne Somers as the bubbly Chrissy Snow, and Joyce DeWitt as the level-headed Janet Wood, the trio created television magic.
Behind-the-Scenes Drama That Shattered the Cast
Despite the on-screen laughter, tensions boiled behind the scenes. In 1980, Suzanne Somers famously left the show due to a contract dispute, fracturing her relationship with both Ritter and DeWitt. The feud lasted for years, with DeWitt and Somers not speaking for decades.
John Ritter’s Second Sitcom Success: 8 Simple Rules
A New Beginning in TV Comedy
After Three’s Company, Ritter found continued success, but it wasn’t until 2002 that he landed another major sitcom role—8 Simple Rules for Dating My Teenage Daughter. This ABC series, based on a best-selling book, became an instant hit, thanks to Ritter’s natural comedic charm.
The Show’s Growing Popularity
By 2003, 8 Simple Rules had cemented itself as a fan favorite, with critics praising Ritter’s performance. The show seemed poised to become another long-running success for the actor.
The Reunion That Almost Happened
Producers Had a Bold Idea
As 8 Simple Rules gained traction, the producers wanted to bring something special to the show—an episode that would feature John Ritter reuniting with his former Three’s Company co-stars. It was the perfect opportunity to mend old wounds and give fans a nostalgic treat.
Suzanne Somers Was Open to It
By the early 2000s, Somers had softened her stance on her Three’s Company departure. She even expressed interest in working with Ritter again. “I always loved John,” she once said in interviews. “I would have loved to do something with him again.”
Joyce DeWitt Was Less Certain
Unlike Somers, Joyce DeWitt had remained relatively distant from the idea of a reunion. Though she and Ritter remained on good terms, her history with Somers was complicated. However, discussions were reportedly happening behind the scenes.
Why the Reunion Never Happened
Ritter’s Tragic Passing in 2003
Just as plans were gaining momentum, the unthinkable happened. On September 11, 2003, John Ritter tragically passed away due to an undiagnosed aortic dissection. His sudden death shocked the entertainment world and shattered any hope of a reunion between the Three’s Company stars.
A Missed Opportunity That Still Haunts Fans
The idea of seeing Ritter, Somers, and DeWitt together again was something fans never got to witness. While 8 Simple Rules continued after Ritter’s passing, the magic he brought to television could never be replaced.
How Suzanne Somers & Joyce DeWitt Finally Reconciled
A Reunion Without Ritter
In 2012, nearly a decade after Ritter’s death, Suzanne Somers and Joyce DeWitt finally sat down together for an emotional conversation on Somers’ online show. It was the first time they had spoken in over 30 years.
Honoring John Ritter’s Memory
During the conversation, they both acknowledged how much they regretted not reconciling sooner—especially while Ritter was still alive. They shared heartfelt memories of their time on Three’s Company and expressed their mutual admiration for their late co-star.
The Lasting Impact of Three’s Company and 8 Simple Rules
A Legacy That Lives On
Even decades later, Three’s Company remains a beloved classic, and 8 Simple Rules is remembered fondly—largely because of John Ritter’s unforgettable presence. His comedic genius continues to inspire generations of actors and comedians.
What Could Have Been
If the 8 Simple Rules reunion had taken place, it could have been one of the most iconic moments in television history. But while we never got to see that dream episode, the legacy of Ritter, Somers, and DeWitt lives on in their work.
Conclusion
The almost-reunion of John Ritter, Suzanne Somers, and Joyce DeWitt on 8 Simple Rules remains one of the biggest “what ifs” in TV history. Though fate had other plans, their impact on television remains undeniable. Their laughter, chemistry, and talent have stood the test of time, proving that great comedy—and great friendships—never truly fade.
FAQs
1. Did John Ritter and Suzanne Somers ever reconcile before his passing?
Yes, shortly before John Ritter’s passing, he and Suzanne Somers had reconnected and were on good terms. Somers later revealed that they had spoken on the phone, and she was hopeful they could work together again.
2. Why did Suzanne Somers leave Three’s Company?
Suzanne Somers left Three’s Company in 1980 due to a contract dispute. She asked for a pay raise equal to what male sitcom stars were making at the time, but ABC refused, leading to her departure.
3. Did Joyce DeWitt and Suzanne Somers ever make amends?
Yes, in 2012, Joyce DeWitt and Suzanne Somers had an emotional reunion on Somers’ online show, where they reconciled after decades of estrangement.
4. How did 8 Simple Rules continue after John Ritter’s passing?
After John Ritter’s sudden passing, 8 Simple Rules continued with the storyline addressing his character’s death. The show introduced new characters, including James Garner and David Spade, but it was never quite the same.
5. What made Three’s Company so popular?
Three’s Company was a hit due to its slapstick humor, witty dialogue, and the amazing chemistry between John Ritter, Suzanne Somers, and Joyce DeWitt. The show’s mix of comedy and misunderstandings made it a fan favorite for years.
