Introduction to ‘Three’s Company’ and Its Legendary Cast
When you think of classic sitcoms from the 70s and 80s, Three’s Company undoubtedly comes to mind. The show, which aired from 1977 to 1984, quickly became a cultural phenomenon with its mix of comedy, misunderstandings, and unforgettable chemistry between its cast members. With a series as iconic as this, it’s no surprise that the cast raked in some serious cash during and after their time on the show.
But how much did they actually make? And who took home the biggest paycheck? Let’s break down the net worths of the Three’s Company cast, discover who struck gold, and uncover the real earnings behind the laughs.
The Stars Who Made ‘Three’s Company’ Shine
Three’s Company starred three main characters, each played by talented actors who became household names. The show focused on the humorous adventures of Jack Tripper (played by John Ritter), Janet Wood (played by Joyce DeWitt), and Chrissy Snow (played by Suzanne Somers). Let’s take a closer look at the key players and their financial journeys.
John Ritter’s Career and Legacy
John Ritter’s portrayal of Jack Tripper, the goofy but charming bachelor, is arguably one of the most iconic roles in television history. Ritter’s comedic timing and physical humor made him a fan favorite, and it didn’t take long for his star to rise.
John Ritter’s Net Worth:
By the time of his death in 2003, Ritter had amassed a significant fortune. His Three’s Company salary helped build his wealth, but he continued to earn big in later years with roles in shows like 8 Simple Rules and appearances in films. His net worth at the time of his passing was estimated to be around $20 million.
Despite his tragic death, Ritter’s legacy has lived on in the hearts of fans, and his net worth reflects his longstanding contributions to the entertainment industry.
Joyce DeWitt’s Journey After ‘Three’s Company’
Joyce DeWitt, who played Janet Wood, brought intelligence and warmth to her character, providing a perfect balance to Ritter’s Jack. DeWitt was known for her calm demeanor and strong acting chops, and she remained a prominent TV figure after the show ended.
Joyce DeWitt’s Net Worth:
Joyce has had a steady career after Three’s Company, although she didn’t achieve the same level of fame as some of her co-stars. Despite taking on various roles in TV and film, she hasn’t had a major breakthrough, and as of recent estimates, DeWitt’s net worth is around $4 million.
Although her career didn’t skyrocket like others, DeWitt has certainly carved out a niche for herself in the entertainment industry.
Suzanne Somers’ Rise to Fame and Fortune
Suzanne Somers, who played the lovable yet ditzy Chrissy Snow, became an overnight sensation thanks to her portrayal on Three’s Company. Her character was central to the sitcom’s dynamic, and her striking looks and unique brand of humor made her a star.
Suzanne Somers’ Net Worth:
Somers became more than just an actress; she became a business mogul. After her departure from Three’s Company in 1981 due to contract disputes, Somers went on to achieve even greater fame with infomercials, fitness products, and a bestselling book career. By diversifying her income streams, Suzanne Somers built a net worth of around $100 million, making her the wealthiest among the Three’s Company cast members.
Her savvy business decisions, combined with her acting career, have ensured her continued financial success.
Who Made the Most Money? Breaking Down Salaries and Earnings
Now that we’ve looked at each star’s net worth, let’s dive into who made the most money during their time on Three’s Company. While John Ritter, Joyce DeWitt, and Suzanne Somers all made impressive earnings, the dynamics between the actors, their contracts, and salaries offer a fascinating glimpse into the business side of the show.
The Salary Debate: Who Earned the Most?
During the first seasons of Three’s Company, all three leads were paid relatively equally, but tensions began to rise as Suzanne Somers’ popularity soared. As a result, she demanded a significant pay raise, claiming that her character, Chrissy Snow, was the show’s breakout star. However, the network refused to meet her demands, leading to her departure from the show.
John Ritter’s Salary:
John Ritter was the highest-paid actor on the show. At the peak of his career on Three’s Company, Ritter earned a salary of about $150,000 per episode, which was a substantial sum for the time. His continued success post-Three’s Company helped maintain his position as one of the richest cast members.
Suzanne Somers’ Salary:
Suzanne Somers was reportedly paid about $30,000 per episode in the early seasons of Three’s Company. However, after her exit and the rise of her business ventures, her net worth skyrocketed to levels far beyond what she earned on the show. While her salary was far less than Ritter’s, her post-show ventures paid off significantly.
Joyce DeWitt’s Salary:
Joyce DeWitt was paid somewhat less than Ritter but still earned a decent salary for her role on the show. It’s estimated that she earned around $50,000 per episode, which was in line with other supporting actors of the era. However, after Three’s Company, DeWitt’s earnings were modest in comparison to her co-stars.
Post-Show Earnings: How the Cast’s Careers Evolved
While Three’s Company provided a major boost to the cast’s careers, each actor went on different paths after the show ended in 1984.
John Ritter: From Sitcom Star to Hollywood Icon
Ritter’s career didn’t slow down after Three’s Company. His role on 8 Simple Rules earned him critical acclaim, and he continued to appear in movies and TV shows until his death. His post-show salary was substantial, further adding to his wealth.
Suzanne Somers: From TV Star to Entrepreneur
Somers became a savvy entrepreneur after leaving Three’s Company, promoting health products and wellness books that made her a millionaire several times over. Her transition from actress to business mogul is a textbook example of how to build wealth beyond acting.
Joyce DeWitt: A Steady Career with Modest Earnings
While DeWitt didn’t achieve the same level of fame after Three’s Company, she continued to appear in various television shows and films. She remained active in the industry but did not break into the mainstream in the same way as her co-stars.
The Lasting Impact of ‘Three’s Company’
Although Three’s Company ended in the 1980s, its impact on television is still felt today. The series broke ground in terms of tackling sexual innuendo and themes of gender roles, which helped it resonate with audiences. The cast’s remarkable chemistry and the show’s humor continue to make it a classic.
Conclusion
From John Ritter’s legacy to Suzanne Somers’ business ventures, the Three’s Company cast certainly made their mark on both television and wealth. While John Ritter was the highest-paid actor on the show, Suzanne Somers’ post-show career allowed her to surpass her co-stars in terms of net worth.
Each member of the cast enjoyed varying levels of success after Three’s Company, but it’s clear that their time on the show paved the way for bigger opportunities. Ultimately, Suzanne Somers remains the wealthiest star of the trio, but it’s John Ritter’s legacy that continues to resonate most with fans.
FAQs
1. Who was the highest-paid actor on ‘Three’s Company’? John Ritter was the highest-paid actor on the show, earning about $150,000 per episode during the peak of the series.
2. How much did Suzanne Somers make on ‘Three’s Company’? Suzanne Somers started with a salary of about $30,000 per episode but left the show due to salary disputes. She later became a business mogul, increasing her wealth significantly.
3. What is Joyce DeWitt’s net worth today? Joyce DeWitt’s net worth is estimated at around $4 million. She had a steady career post-Three’s Company, though not at the level of her co-stars.
4. Why did Suzanne Somers leave ‘Three’s Company’? Suzanne Somers left the show due to a salary dispute, as she demanded a raise that the producers were unwilling to meet.
5. How did John Ritter’s career continue after ‘Three’s Company’? John Ritter’s career continued with major roles in TV shows like 8 Simple Rules, which further boosted his wealth and reputation until his untimely
