In the late 1970s, Three’s Company became a cultural phenomenon, captivating audiences with its quirky humor and memorable characters. At the heart of the show were three roommates: Janet Wood (Joyce DeWitt), Chrissy Snow (Suzanne Somers), and Jack Tripper (John Ritter). However, behind the scenes, a salary dispute between Somers and the producers led to a fallout that would keep DeWitt and Somers apart for over three decades.
The Rise of ‘Three’s Company’
Premiering in 1977, Three’s Company quickly became one of ABC’s most popular sitcoms. The show revolved around Jack Tripper, a man who pretended to be gay to live with two single women, Janet and Chrissy. The trio’s comedic dynamics, combined with the show’s risqué premise, made it a hit with audiences.
The Salary Dispute
By 1980, Suzanne Somers, who portrayed Chrissy Snow, felt she deserved a salary increase. She requested to be paid $150,000 per episode, aligning her pay with that of her co-star John Ritter. At the time, Somers was earning $30,000 per episode. The producers rejected her demand, leading to tensions on set.
Somers’ Departure
Unable to reach an agreement, the producers decided to write Somers out of the show. Her character, Chrissy, was written off, and new characters were introduced to fill the void. Somers’ departure was abrupt, and she was not given a proper send-off, which further fueled the animosity between her and the show’s creators.
DeWitt’s Perspective
Joyce DeWitt, who played Janet Wood, was caught in the middle of the dispute. She later expressed that she felt the situation was mishandled and that the producers could have handled the negotiations better. The fallout from Somers’ departure affected the entire cast, leading to a shift in the show’s dynamics.
The Fallout
The tension between Somers and the producers also affected her relationship with DeWitt. The two actresses, once close friends, stopped speaking to each other. The rift lasted for over 30 years, with both women focusing on their careers and personal lives.
Reunion After Three Decades
In 2012, Suzanne Somers invited Joyce DeWitt to appear on her talk show, Suzanne Somers Breaking Through. The reunion marked the first time the two had spoken since their fallout. During the emotional episode, both women apologized and reflected on their time together on Three’s Company.
The Impact on ‘Three’s Company’
Somers’ departure had a significant impact on the show. The producers introduced new characters, such as Cindy Snow (Jenilee Harrison) and Terri Alden (Priscilla Barnes), to replace Chrissy. While the show continued for a few more seasons, it never regained the same level of popularity.
Legacy of the Feud
The feud between DeWitt and Somers highlighted the challenges of balancing personal relationships with professional demands. It also shed light on the disparities in pay and treatment between male and female actors in the industry during that era.
Reflections on the Reunion
Looking back, both DeWitt and Somers have expressed gratitude for their reunion. They acknowledged that time had healed old wounds and that their shared experiences on Three’s Company remained a cherished part of their lives.
The Importance of Communication
The story of DeWitt and Somers underscores the importance of open communication in resolving conflicts. Their reconciliation serves as a reminder that misunderstandings can often be addressed through dialogue and mutual understanding.
Conclusion
The behind-the-scenes drama of Three’s Company serves as a cautionary tale about the complexities of fame, salary disputes, and personal relationships in the entertainment industry. While the show brought laughter to millions, it also left a lasting impact on its stars, reminding us that the price of success can sometimes be personal sacrifice.
