Three’s Company was a hit sitcom in the late 1970s and early 1980s, delighting audiences with comedic misunderstandings and lovable characters. But behind the laugh track, tension brewed between the show’s two leading ladies: Joyce DeWitt and Suzanne Somers. Fans loved their on-screen chemistry, yet the off-screen reality was far more complicated. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the feud, its origins, and how it shaped the legacy of one of television’s most iconic sitcoms.
Setting the Stage – The Rise of ‘Three’s Company’
A Cultural Phenomenon
Three’s Company premiered in 1977 and quickly became a household favorite. The sitcom broke boundaries with risqué humor, slapstick comedy, and a quirky love triangle that kept audiences hooked.
Characters Who Became Icons
Joyce DeWitt played Janet Wood, the responsible and witty roommate, while Suzanne Somers charmed viewers as the naive yet endearing Chrissy Snow. Their contrasting personalities added depth and humor to the show.
Early Tensions – Sparks Behind the Scenes
Personality Clashes
Joyce DeWitt was known for her professionalism and dedication, often staying late to rehearse and perfect her performance. Suzanne Somers, on the other hand, had a more relaxed approach to work, which reportedly irritated some of her co-stars.
Creative Differences
DeWitt often felt that Somers received preferential treatment from producers, causing friction. This disparity extended to script negotiations, salary discussions, and screen time allocations, fueling resentment behind the scenes.
The Salary Dispute That Rocked the Set
Suzanne Somers’ Contract Controversy
As Three’s Company gained popularity, Suzanne Somers sought a significant pay increase. Reports indicate she requested a salary far higher than her co-stars, including DeWitt and John Ritter, creating tension within the cast.
Joyce DeWitt’s Perspective
DeWitt publicly expressed frustration over the disparity. In interviews years later, she recalled feeling undervalued despite her crucial role in the show’s success.
Media Attention Intensifies the Feud
Press Coverage
Tabloids quickly picked up on the off-screen drama, exaggerating conflicts and pitting the actresses against each other for sensational headlines.
Public Perception
Fans began choosing sides, with some defending Somers’ ambition and others sympathizing with DeWitt’s grievances. The media’s portrayal heightened the tension and made reconciliation more challenging.
The Impact on On-Screen Chemistry
Maintaining Professionalism
Despite the tension, both actresses maintained professionalism on set. Their performances never reflected personal animosities, and their comedic timing remained impeccable.
Behind-the-Scenes Strain
Crew members reportedly felt the strain, as meetings and rehearsals occasionally devolved into arguments. The stress highlighted the difficulty of balancing personal conflict with professional responsibility.
Suzanne Somers’ Star Power and Media Manipulation
Favoritism from Producers
Somers’ growing fame led to producer favoritism, including higher salaries and more storyline focus. This disparity caused resentment among cast members, particularly DeWitt.
Strategic Public Relations
Somers and her management leveraged media attention to her advantage, framing her as the breakout star while DeWitt remained in a supporting narrative.
The Turning Point – When Tension Boiled Over
Season Four Shakeup
Tensions escalated during the fourth season, coinciding with contract negotiations and network pressures. The rift between DeWitt and Somers became a central issue behind the scenes.
Attempts at Mediation
Producers attempted to mediate, but deep-rooted differences in work ethic, personality, and ambition made resolution difficult. The feud became a lasting part of the show’s history.
Joyce DeWitt’s Reflections on the Feud
Years Later
In interviews decades later, DeWitt candidly discussed the challenges of working with Somers. She acknowledged the tension but emphasized her commitment to professionalism and preserving the show’s quality.
Lessons Learned
DeWitt credits the experience with teaching her resilience, patience, and the importance of maintaining composure under pressure.
Suzanne Somers’ Side of the Story
Ambition vs. Backlash
Somers framed her actions as striving for fairness and recognition. She argued that her salary demands reflected her contribution to the show’s success.
Public Image
Her public statements sometimes clashed with DeWitt’s perspective, reinforcing the media’s narrative of a dramatic feud.
Fan Reactions Over the Years
Supporters and Critics
Fans remain divided. Some admire Somers’ ambition, while others champion DeWitt’s dedication and professionalism.
Pop Culture Legacy
Regardless of the feud, both actresses are celebrated for their contributions to television, and Three’s Company remains a cultural touchstone.
How the Feud Affected Careers
Short-Term Consequences
The tension contributed to Somers’ eventual departure from the show. DeWitt continued her career in television and theater, maintaining a respected professional reputation.
Long-Term Legacy
Both actresses leveraged the publicity and experience to explore new opportunities, shaping their careers in distinct but successful ways.
Reconciliation Rumors
Attempts to Bridge the Gap
Over the years, there have been rumors of reconciliation, but both actresses have maintained boundaries. Any interaction has been professional rather than personal.
Respect Through Distance
Even without personal closeness, both recognize the importance of mutual respect and the shared success of the show.
Lessons from the Feud
Navigating Workplace Conflict
The feud highlights the challenges of high-pressure work environments, celebrity dynamics, and the impact of media scrutiny.
Professionalism Above All
DeWitt and Somers’ ability to deliver quality performances despite tension underscores the value of professionalism in any workplace.
Behind-the-Scenes Insights
Crew and Co-Star Perspectives
Other cast members, including John Ritter, have commented on the tension, often emphasizing that while conflicts existed, they never compromised the show’s integrity.
Humor as a Coping Mechanism
Laughter, camaraderie, and focus on performance helped mitigate personal differences and maintain a positive on-set environment.
Legacy of Joyce DeWitt and Suzanne Somers
Iconic Status
Despite the feud, both actresses are remembered for their talent, charm, and impact on television comedy.
Cultural Impact
Their roles helped shape sitcom history, demonstrating the enduring power of well-written characters and dynamic performances.
Conclusion: Beyond the Feud
The feud between Joyce DeWitt and Suzanne Somers reminds us that behind iconic performances lies human complexity. Professional jealousy, personality clashes, and media sensationalism created tension, but both actresses contributed to the success of Three’s Company. Their legacy endures, proving that talent, professionalism, and dedication outweigh personal conflict in the long run.
