John Ritter gained widespread recognition for his role as the endearing Jack Tripper in the popular TV sitcom Three’s Company, which ran from 1977 to 1984, before appearing in TV shows like Hearts Afire and Hooperman, with the latter earning him an Emmy Award.
In the early 2000s, Ritter returned to television with 8 Simple Rules for Dating My Teenage Daughter, starring alongside Kaley Cuoco, who played Bridget Hennessy, his on-screen daughter. Cuoco had a beautiful working relationship with Ritter until his passing on September 11, 2003, at 54, due to aortic dissection.
John Ritter was a father figure to Kaley Cuoco
While working closely with the iconic actor, Ritter took up the role of a mentor and a mindful father figure to the 37-year-old, teaching her some valuable lessons that later benefitted her in her subsequent role on The Big Bang Theory.
Ritter also advised the actress about the need to be herself and that she didn’t need to rely on dressing provocatively to secure a role in the entertainment industry.
John Ritter’s 20th death anniversary
Recently, the world celebrated the 20th anniversary of John Ritter’s death, and Cuoco also Joined to pay tribute to the legend. The actress took to Instagram to express her endorsement for the Aortic Dissection Awareness Week—an event hosted by The John Ritter Foundation, established by Ritter’s wife, Amy Yasbeck.
“20 years ago, we lost one of the most influential people in my life. I am proud to support @JohnRitterFoundation led by @Yasbeckamy,” Cuoco wrote in the caption alongside throwbacks of her and Ritter and a picture of the late actor’s widow. “This Is Aortic Dissection Awareness Week! Please consider donating so we can continue our research so no other families will suffer.”
