The Rise of Suzanne Somers on ‘Three’s Company’
Before the controversy, Suzanne Somers was the breakout star of Three’s Company. The sitcom, which premiered in 1977, quickly became one of the biggest hits on television.
Somers played Chrissy Snow, the lovable and ditzy blonde who charmed audiences with her comedic timing and infectious energy. Alongside John Ritter (Jack Tripper) and Joyce DeWitt (Janet Wood), she became a household name.
However, behind the scenes, a storm was brewing.
The Pay Gap That Led to Suzanne Somers’ Exit
As Three’s Company became more successful, Suzanne Somers realized she was making significantly less than her male co-star, John Ritter.
At the height of the show’s popularity, Ritter was earning $150,000 per episode, while Somers was being paid just $30,000 per episode—a shocking five times less.
Encouraged by her husband, Alan Hamel, Somers decided to ask for a raise. She requested a salary increase to match Ritter’s pay, which she believed was fair considering her contribution to the show’s success.
The Network’s Reaction: Retaliation Instead of Recognition
Instead of negotiating, ABC took a hard stance against Somers.
- They refused her pay raise request.
- They reduced her screen time. Somers was given only one-minute cameos in episodes instead of full scenes.
- They fired her after Season 5.
ABC executives wanted to send a message that female actors who demanded equal pay would not be tolerated. This decision not only ended her time on Three’s Company but also made it difficult for her to find work in Hollywood for years.
Joyce DeWitt and John Ritter’s Reaction
While Suzanne Somers was fighting for equal pay, her co-stars were not entirely supportive.
- Joyce DeWitt distanced herself from Somers, feeling that the pay dispute disrupted the harmony on set.
- John Ritter initially stayed neutral but later expressed regret that things ended the way they did.
Somers and Ritter eventually reconciled years later before his passing in 2003. However, she and DeWitt remained estranged for decades until finally making amends in 2012.
How Getting Fired Led to a Bigger Career
Despite her abrupt firing, Suzanne Somers proved she was more than just Chrissy Snow. She reinvented herself in multiple ways:
1. She Became a Fitness Mogul
Somers launched a fitness empire, becoming the face of the ThighMaster, one of the most successful home workout products ever. She made over $100 million from the product alone.
2. She Became a Bestselling Author
She wrote over 25 books, including health, wellness, and self-help books, many of which became bestsellers.
3. She Returned to TV
Somers later starred in Step by Step (1991–1998), proving she was still a TV powerhouse.
4. She Became a Health Advocate
In her later years, she focused on holistic health, advocating for alternative medicine and bioidentical hormone therapy.
Suzanne Somers’ Net Worth: From Fired Star to Business Empire
Despite her struggles in Hollywood, Somers built an impressive financial empire.
- Estimated net worth: $100 million
- Major earnings from:
- Three’s Company residuals
- ThighMaster sales
- Book sales
- TV appearances and endorsements
What seemed like a career-ending moment turned out to be one of the best things that ever happened to her financially.
Suzanne Somers’ Legacy in Hollywood
Suzanne Somers’ fight for equal pay helped pave the way for future actresses. Today, gender pay gaps still exist, but her bold move started a conversation that Hollywood could no longer ignore.
Though her firing was controversial, her resilience and reinvention made her a lasting icon.
Conclusion
Suzanne Somers’ journey from being fired on Three’s Company to becoming a self-made millionaire is a testament to perseverance. She refused to be defined by a setback and instead built a legacy that extended far beyond sitcom stardom.
Her fight for fair pay, business success, and influence in health and fitness continue to inspire generations.
FAQs
1. Why was Suzanne Somers fired from ‘Three’s Company’?
She was fired after demanding equal pay with John Ritter. The network refused, cut her screen time, and eventually removed her from the show.
2. Did Suzanne Somers and Joyce DeWitt ever make up?
Yes, they reunited in 2012 after decades of estrangement.
3. How much money did Suzanne Somers make from the ThighMaster?
She made over $100 million from ThighMaster sales.
4. Did Suzanne Somers regret asking for a raise?
No, she stood by her decision, believing it was a necessary fight for equal pay.
5. What was Suzanne Somers’ net worth at the time of her passing?
She was worth approximately $100 million, thanks to her business ventures, books, and fitness empire.
