When it comes to Three’s Company — a popular sitcom series on American television in the 70s and 80s — audiences cannot forget the image of Janet Wood, the charming, intelligent and warm girl played by actress Joyce DeWitt.
Amidst the endless laughter and hilarious situations of the trio Jack Tripper – Janet Wood – Chrissy Snow, Janet is always the one who keeps the group sober, wise and balanced. Today, let’s explore more about Joyce DeWitt and why she has become a beloved icon for decades.
Joyce DeWitt and the Journey to the Role of Janet Wood
Origin and career beginning
Joyce DeWitt was born on April 23, 1949 in Wheeling, West Virginia, USA. She grew up in an Italian family, loved the arts from a young age and graduated from Ball State University with a bachelor’s degree in theater. Joyce then went on to graduate school at UCLA and earned a master’s degree in theater arts — a solid stepping stone to a professional acting career.
Entering Three’s Company
The role of Janet Wood was one of Joyce DeWitt’s first major television roles. She was cast as Janet after impressing audiences with her natural, intelligent, and charming acting style.
Janet Wood: The Woman Between Two Worlds
Roles in the legendary trio
In Three’s Company, Janet is the one who: balances the two roommates: the hilarious and awkward Jack (John Ritter), and the naive and witty Chrissy (Suzanne Somers). Often plays the role of solving the awkward situations the group encounters. She is a girl with a practical, strong mindset, but no less feminine and lovable.
The image of the modern woman
Janet is not a “mobile flower vase”. She is an independent woman, has her own job (working at a flower shop) and always knows how to protect herself. This is a progressive image in the context of women on television in the 70s — when many female characters were still built quite stereotyped.
Joyce DeWitt: A Beloved Actress in Real Life
Audience’s affection for Joyce
Although not a “big” star in the Hollywood style, Joyce DeWitt still receives lasting love from Three’s Company fans. Audiences appreciate her not only for her charming acting but also for her simplicity, sincerity and closeness in real life.
Relationship with co-stars
Joyce has a very close relationship with John Ritter. The two remained friends until John’s death in 2003. The relationship with Suzanne Somers was strained due to a contract dispute during the show’s run, but the two later reconciled and reconnected.
Janet Wood’s Most Memorable Moments
Some of Janet’s Most Notable Episodes
“The Bake-Off”
Janet comes to the rescue when everyone loses control after eating a “special” cake.
“Strange Bedfellows”
The episode explores the emotional side and deep friendship between Janet and Jack.
“Janet’s Secret”
A touching episode when Janet decides to protect a friend from the landlord Mr. Roper’s misunderstanding.
Memorable lines
“I am not just a roommate, I am your friend!” — A quote that shows the beautiful friendship of the trio.
“You know, sometimes being smart is the hardest thing in the world.” — A moment that makes the audience see Janet’s inner depth.
Joyce DeWitt After Three’s Company
Career after the show
After Three’s Company ended, Joyce DeWitt temporarily left the spotlight to focus on charity activities and personal development. Occasionally she participated in some TV shows and independent films.
Personal life
Joyce chose to live a simple and private life. She rarely participated in noisy Hollywood events. Always loved and remembered by loyal fans of Three’s Company.
Joyce DeWitt and the character Janet Wood are not only an indispensable part of Three’s Company but also a model for smart, warm and strong women on television.
Even after more than 40 years, the values that the character Janet brings still make today’s audience moved and loved.
