Introduction:
Suzanne Somers, beloved for her role as the bubbly and endearing Chrissy Snow in Three’s Company, nearly missed her big break. While most people remember her for her comedic timing and charm on the classic sitcom, few know that a near-fatal flight threatened to derail her audition and ultimately her career. This near-tragic experience was a pivotal moment in Somers’ life—one that would shape her path to stardom in ways she never imagined. Let’s dive into this dramatic story and see how fate and determination led Suzanne Somers to become one of TV’s most iconic stars.
The Fateful Flight: A Close Call
What Happened on the Flight?
Before Suzanne Somers became a household name, she was simply a young actress trying to land her big break. In 1977, Somers was flying from her home in Los Angeles to an audition in New York when disaster almost struck. The small plane she was traveling in encountered severe turbulence, throwing her into what she described as a terrifying experience.
The flight, which was supposed to be just a routine cross-country trip, almost turned fatal when the plane experienced mechanical failure. Suzanne Somers later recounted the terrifying moments when the plane plummeted and then managed to regain altitude. But it wasn’t just the near-death experience that was so significant. It was the fact that Somers barely made it to her audition for Three’s Company, a show that would make her a star.
The Audition for Chrissy Snow: A Life-Altering Moment
Timing Is Everything
If the flight had been any worse, Suzanne Somers might have never made it to the audition for Chrissy Snow. Imagine the world without Chrissy’s iconic laugh and silly charm! After surviving that harrowing flight, Suzanne rushed to her audition, exhausted but determined. She recalls walking into the audition room shaken from the events of the day but pushing through.
It was a moment that was both surreal and life-changing. Chrissy Snow, the fun-loving, slightly naïve character from Three’s Company, would go on to define Suzanne Somers’ career. But without that relentless drive and a little bit of luck, that fateful audition might not have happened.
Overcoming the Odds: Suzanne’s Resilience
From Almost Losing It All to Gaining Everything
Surviving the flight was just the beginning of Suzanne Somers’ story. Once she arrived at the audition, she was already mentally and physically drained. Yet, her resilience shone through. As soon as she stepped in front of the producers, she channeled the energy from her harrowing experience into her audition.
Despite being visibly shaken, Suzanne impressed the casting team. It’s said that they were captivated by her bubbly, infectious energy, which was perfect for the role of Chrissy Snow. It wasn’t just the talent that impressed them; it was the strength of character she displayed in overcoming such an intense ordeal. This fortitude undoubtedly played a role in her landing the role that would change her life forever.
What Would Three’s Company Have Been Without Suzanne Somers?
A Show on the Brink of Change
At the time, Three’s Company was struggling to find the right chemistry between its leads. The show was in need of a fresh, lovable character to complete the trio of roommates—and Suzanne Somers was exactly what they needed. Without her, the show could have easily fizzled out. Her portrayal of Chrissy brought the perfect balance of innocence and charm that made the show a hit.
But it wasn’t just about being a part of a great show. Chrissy Snow became an iconic character that defined an era of television. Her wit, charm, and quirky antics made her a beloved character for fans everywhere. Without her, the show might not have achieved the same level of success.
The Legacy of Chrissy Snow: How the Role Shaped Suzanne Somers’ Career
A Star Is Born
As the years went on, Suzanne Somers became synonymous with Chrissy Snow. Three’s Company ran for eight seasons, and during that time, Somers became a household name. The role of Chrissy Snow was transformative, not only for the show but for Suzanne’s career as well.
After her stint on Three’s Company, Suzanne Somers continued to build her career in Hollywood. She appeared in numerous other television shows and films, but none of them would quite capture the magic of her time on Three’s Company. The character of Chrissy Snow became a symbol of 1970s sitcoms, and Suzanne’s performance became a textbook example of how to capture the hearts of audiences.
Life After ‘Three’s Company’: A Star’s Journey Continues
From TV to Business Mogul
While Suzanne Somers will always be remembered for her role as Chrissy Snow, her career didn’t stop there. After her time on the show, Somers ventured into other projects, including books, fitness products, and even her own line of health and wellness products. She proved that she wasn’t just a one-hit wonder—she was a businesswoman with a vision.
Her entrepreneurial spirit led her to build a successful career outside of acting. But despite all her ventures, it’s her role as Chrissy Snow that remains the most iconic in the minds of fans.
What if She Didn’t Make It?
The Show Might Have Been Different
It’s impossible to overstate how important Suzanne Somers was to the success of Three’s Company. If she had missed that crucial audition, the show might not have found the magic it needed. Would Three’s Company have lasted as long? Would it have been as successful without the character of Chrissy Snow?
It’s a fun thought experiment, but the reality is that Suzanne Somers brought something irreplaceable to the role. Her humor, warmth, and infectious energy became integral to the show’s success. In many ways, she was the heart of the show, and Three’s Company wouldn’t have been the same without her.
The Importance of Perseverance and Timing in Hollywood
A Reminder That Anything Is Possible
Suzanne Somers’ story reminds us all that in Hollywood, timing, luck, and perseverance are everything. She was able to overcome a life-threatening experience and turn it into an opportunity to land the role of a lifetime. Her journey shows that even in the face of adversity, determination can lead to success.
It’s also a lesson in how important it is to seize the moment. Suzanne didn’t let her near-death experience stop her from chasing her dreams. Instead, she used it as fuel to push herself further. Her story serves as a powerful reminder that the road to success is often filled with unexpected twists, and it’s the way we handle those challenges that defines our future.
Conclusion: Suzanne Somers’ Defining Moment
Suzanne Somers’ near-fatal flight was a pivotal moment in her life and career. If not for her determination and sheer will to succeed, she might have never auditioned for Three’s Company—and the world might never have known the delightful, ditzy Chrissy Snow. From a terrifying near-death experience to becoming one of the most beloved TV stars of all time, Suzanne’s story is one of resilience, perseverance, and the power of seizing every opportunity.
FAQs:
1. What happened during Suzanne Somers’ near-fatal flight?
Suzanne Somers was on a small plane flying to an audition when it encountered severe turbulence and mechanical failure. The plane almost crashed, but she survived the ordeal and went on to audition for Three’s Company.
2. How did Suzanne Somers land the role of Chrissy Snow?
Despite her traumatic flight experience, Suzanne Somers arrived at the audition exhausted but gave an impressive performance. Her bubbly personality and energy won over the casting directors, securing her the role of Chrissy Snow.
3. How did Three’s Company impact Suzanne Somers’ career?
Three’s Company was a huge success, and Suzanne Somers became a household name. The role of Chrissy Snow defined her career and remains one of her most iconic roles.
4. What happened to Suzanne Somers after Three’s Company?
After the show, Suzanne Somers became an entrepreneur, author, and fitness mogul, launching several successful products and businesses.
5. What would Three’s Company have been like without Suzanne Somers?
Without Suzanne Somers’ portrayal of Chrissy Snow, Three’s Company might not have achieved the same level of success. Her character brought the perfect mix of humor and charm to the show, making it a beloved classic.
