When we think of Suzanne Somers, our minds might first wander to the iconic sitcom ‘Three’s Company’, where she played the lovable and ditsy Chrissy Snow. But Suzanne was so much more than just a TV star. Her career spanned beyond acting, as she made waves in multiple industries, from fitness and health to writing, entrepreneurship, and advocacy. She wasn’t just a product of Hollywood—she became a symbol of resilience, entrepreneurship, and empowerment for women everywhere.
In this article, we’ll explore Suzanne Somers’ life and achievements, shedding light on her career after ‘Three’s Company’ and highlighting why she remains a trailblazer even today.
Suzanne Somers: A Multifaceted Career
The Rise to Fame: ‘Three’s Company’ and Beyond
Suzanne’s breakout role as Chrissy Snow in ‘Three’s Company’ catapulted her into stardom in the 1970s and 80s. With her bubbly personality and unique comedic timing, she quickly became a fan favorite. However, her career didn’t stop there. After her departure from the show due to contract disputes, Suzanne ventured into a variety of projects that showcased her diverse talents.
Breaking free from typecasting, Suzanne pursued more mature roles, appearing in films like American Graffiti and later starring in ‘Step by Step’, a popular family sitcom that aired in the 1990s. But acting was just the beginning.
Health and Wellness Pioneer: Suzanne Somers’ Second Act
A New Kind of Stardom
After making her name in Hollywood, Suzanne Somers redefined the way we think about health, wellness, and beauty. In the early 2000s, Suzanne shifted gears into the world of health and wellness, becoming a passionate advocate for alternative medicine and a natural approach to aging.
The Health Advocate: Books and Products
Suzanne penned several best-selling books, including The Sexy Years, Ageless, and Eat Great, Lose Weight. These books offered readers a glimpse into her holistic approach to wellness. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT), detox programs, and natural supplements became her trademarks, and she built a loyal following.
Additionally, Suzanne launched her own line of health and beauty products, which included skincare and supplements designed to promote healthy living. Her ability to merge entertainment with health made her a standout figure in the wellness world, gaining attention from both fans and critics.
Entrepreneurship: Suzanne Somers as a Business Mogul
Building a Business Empire
Suzanne Somers didn’t just stop at writing books and creating wellness products—she built an entire business empire. Her ThighMaster product, which was introduced in the 1990s, became a pop culture phenomenon and a multi-million-dollar success. While many celebrities dip their toes into entrepreneurship, Suzanne went above and beyond, making business savvy decisions that allowed her to diversify her career and income.
Her ability to spot a trend and leverage her celebrity status turned her into a respected entrepreneur in her own right.
Suzanne Somers: Advocate for Aging Gracefully
Challenging the Status Quo
Throughout her career, Suzanne was vocal about aging, especially for women. She constantly challenged the societal norms surrounding aging and beauty, advocating for women to embrace their age without shame. In a world that often prioritizes youth, Suzanne Somers was a powerful voice for embracing natural beauty and aging gracefully.
She was one of the first celebrities to openly discuss menopause, hormonal imbalances, and self-care as they relate to aging. By sharing her own experiences, she encouraged countless women to take control of their health, seek alternatives to traditional treatments, and find empowerment in their own journeys.
Suzanne Somers: A Champion for Women’s Empowerment
Breaking Barriers in Hollywood
In an industry known for its lack of opportunities for women, Suzanne Somers was an advocate for women’s rights and empowerment. Her decision to stand up for herself in the face of Hollywood’s systemic challenges marked a significant turning point in her career. She famously fought for equal pay on ‘Three’s Company’, demanding a salary equal to her male counterparts.
Suzanne’s courage to take on these issues head-on in the 70s was ahead of its time and paved the way for future generations of women to demand respect and fairness in the workplace.
From Actress to Author: Suzanne Somers’ Literary Contributions
Writing for Change
Beyond her role in front of the camera, Suzanne Somers became a prolific author. Her books focused on a variety of subjects, ranging from health and beauty to self-help and personal development. She authored more than 25 books, many of which went on to become bestsellers.
Her authentic voice and personal experiences resonated with her readers, making her not just a celebrity, but a respected figure in the world of self-improvement and health.
Philanthropy: Suzanne Somers’ Dedication to Giving Back
A Heart for Charitable Causes
Throughout her career, Suzanne Somers always made time for giving back. She was involved in numerous charitable causes, including organizations that focus on healthcare, women’s rights, and children’s education.
In addition to her public work, Suzanne supported research for cancer treatment and alternative therapies. Her dedication to philanthropy reflected her deep commitment to making the world a better place, using her platform to amplify important causes.
Legacy: The Lasting Impact of Suzanne Somers
More Than Just a Celebrity
Suzanne Somers’ impact goes far beyond the realm of entertainment. She was a pioneer in multiple industries, a trailblazer for women, and a champion for healthy living. She wasn’t just a TV star; she was an icon who challenged societal norms, pushed boundaries, and embraced life on her own terms.
Her story serves as an inspiration to countless people who seek to break free from traditional expectations and make their mark in the world. Suzanne Somers was more than just a name—she was a force of nature.
Conclusion: Suzanne Somers’ Legacy Lives On
Suzanne Somers will always be remembered for her role on ‘Three’s Company’, but her life and legacy encompass much more than that. She reinvented herself time and time again, proving that the world is full of opportunities for those willing to pursue their passions. From her success as a health and wellness advocate to her entrepreneurial ventures, Suzanne Somers became an example of determination, resilience, and empowerment.
Her story shows us that it’s never too late to transform your life and make a lasting impact. Suzanne Somers’ legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire for generations to come.
FAQs
1. What was Suzanne Somers’ most famous role?
Suzanne Somers is most famously known for her role as Chrissy Snow on the sitcom ‘Three’s Company’, which made her a household name in the 1970s.
2. How did Suzanne Somers become a health and wellness advocate?
Suzanne became a health and wellness advocate after experiencing her own health challenges and discovering the benefits of natural treatments and alternative medicine. She wrote books and created products to share this knowledge with her audience.
3. What is the ThighMaster, and how successful was it?
The ThighMaster was an exercise device that Suzanne Somers popularized in the 1990s. It became a massive success and helped launch her career as a business mogul.
4. Was Suzanne Somers involved in any philanthropic work?
Yes, Suzanne Somers was involved in philanthropy, supporting causes related to healthcare, women’s rights, and children’s education, among others.
5. How did Suzanne Somers impact the portrayal of women in Hollywood?
Suzanne Somers was a pioneer for women’s rights in Hollywood, particularly when she demanded equal pay for women on ‘Three’s Company’. Her actions helped pave the way for greater gender equality in the industry.
