‘Three’s Company’ Star Suzanne Somers Remembers Being Fired After Asking for a Raise
The world of Hollywood isn’t all glitz and glamour—it can also be filled with tough lessons and hard decisions. For Suzanne Somers, the beloved actress who played Chrissy Snow in the hit TV sitcom Three’s Company, the journey to stardom came with its fair share of challenges. One pivotal moment in her career came when she stood her ground and asked for what she believed she deserved—a raise. What followed was an unforeseen turn of events that not only changed the trajectory of her career but also became a groundbreaking moment in Hollywood’s history.
Let’s take a closer look at Somers’ rise, her bold stance, the aftermath of being let go from Three’s Company, and how she paved her way to even bigger successes.
Who Was Suzanne Somers on ‘Three’s Company’?
Suzanne Somers first captured our hearts with her portrayal of the quirky yet endearing Chrissy Snow on Three’s Company. The sitcom debuted in 1977, quickly becoming one of the most-watched shows of its time. Somers’ impeccable comedic timing and bubbly charm turned her into one of television’s most recognizable faces. But little did audiences know, behind the scenes, she was quietly fighting for equal pay.
The Beginning of the Pay Gap Dispute
In the late 1970s, Hollywood’s pay structure wasn’t what you’d call “fair.” Rumors swirled that Somers’ male co-star, John Ritter (who played Jack Tripper), was earning significantly more than her for the same show. And while Ritter’s talent was undeniable, so was Somers’. The disparity sparked a growing frustration in the actress.
Her Bold Move: Asking for What She Deserved
Out of frustration and a sense of self-worth, Suzanne Somers made the bold decision to approach ABC and ask for a raise. Her request was simple: salary parity. She reportedly asked for her salary to be bumped to $150,000 an episode, matching what top male television stars were earning at the time. Comparatively, Somers was earning $30,000 an episode—a glaring pay gap.
This move raised eyebrows in an industry that wasn’t exactly known for treating women as equals. Somers believed it was time to challenge the status quo.
The Fallout: Being Fired from ‘Three’s Company’
Unfortunately, her decision to speak up didn’t sit well with the show’s executives. Instead of negotiating, ABC viewed her request as a power play and stood their ground. To their shockingly severe reaction, Somers was let go after the fifth season. Chrissy Snow was written out of the show, and a new character replaced her.
For Somers, it wasn’t just being fired—it felt like a targeted dismissal for daring to demand equality.
The Message Hollywood Sent to Women
Suzanne Somers’ firing sent a clear message to the women in Hollywood: Step out of line, and there will be consequences. But instead of accepting defeat, Somers used this as an opportunity to rebuild her career and stand up for what she believed in.
Turning Adversity Into Opportunity
Being dismissed from Three’s Company could have broken her spirit—but Suzanne Somers wasn’t about to back down. Instead, she reinvented herself. She famously turned to other business ventures, including her now-iconic role as a health and fitness advocate. Who hasn’t heard of the ThighMaster? Somers turned that product into a multimillion-dollar success story, proving that her talents extended far beyond acting.
How Suzanne Somers Became a Trailblazer
Somers’ story is more than a tale of Hollywood politics. It’s a powerful reminder of resilience. She laid the groundwork for other actresses to speak out against unfair pay practices in the entertainment industry. Her bravery was groundbreaking at the time, and it continues to resonate today.
Suzanne Somers’ Post-‘Three’s Company’ Career
After her departure from the show, Suzanne pursued several ventures, including books, fitness products, and other TV roles. We saw her star in Step by Step, a family sitcom that further cemented her role as a TV icon.
Why the Fight for Equal Pay Still Matters
Fast forward to today, and Somers’ fight feels more relevant than ever. Equal pay remains a hot topic, not just in Hollywood but in workplaces worldwide. The gender pay gap remains a significant issue, and stories like Somers’ remind us of how far we’ve come—and how far we still need to go.
Lessons Learned from Suzanne Somers’ Story
Her journey serves as a lesson in courage and conviction. In standing up for herself, Somers risked her career. While the end result was not what she hoped for, her story inspired countless others to demand better. Her firing showed the cost of challenging an unfair system, but it also highlighted the importance of resilience in the face of adversity.
How Times Have Changed Since ‘Three’s Company’
Today, social media and public awareness have created a much louder platform for pay equity issues. While Hollywood still grapples with these disparities, there’s no doubt that pioneers like Suzanne Somers paved the way for modern activists.
Remembering Suzanne Somers for More Than ‘Chrissy Snow’
While Chrissy Snow remains one of her most iconic roles, Suzanne Somers is so much more than just a sitcom star. She is a pioneer for justice, a savvy businesswoman, and a beloved public figure. Through ups and downs, she has remained authentic and steadfast in her ideals.
What Can We Learn from Suzanne Somers?
Her story teaches us that sometimes taking a stand comes at a cost—but the impact can last a lifetime. It’s not just about fighting for yourself; it’s about making a difference for those who come after you.
Suzanne Somers’ Legacy
Suzanne Somers’ experience with Three’s Company wasn’t just a career hiccup—it was a transformative moment. She refused to fade into obscurity and, instead, carved a legacy defined by persistence, innovation, and unshakable confidence.
Conclusion
Suzanne Somers’ decision to demand equal pay shook the entertainment world. While it cost her a beloved role on Three’s Company, it ignited conversations that continue to this day. Her legacy isn’t just about her time on screen; it’s about the bravery to stand up for what’s right, even when the odds are against you. Somers has shown us that sometimes, being let go is just the beginning of an incredible journey.
FAQs
1. What led to Suzanne Somers being fired from ‘Three’s Company’?
Suzanne Somers was fired after requesting a pay raise that would match her male co-star, John Ritter. The studio refused and subsequently terminated her contract.
2. How did Suzanne Somers rebuild her career after being fired?
Somers transitioned into other successful ventures, including fitness products like the ThighMaster, writing books, and starring in other TV shows like Step by Step.
3. What role did Suzanne Somers play in pay equity conversations in Hollywood?
Her decision to request equal pay was one of the early actions that brought attention to the gender pay gap in Hollywood. It inspired other actors to speak out.
4. Was Suzanne Somers’ pay request unreasonable for that time?
Not at all. She requested salary parity, which made sense given her role as a key character in one of TV’s most popular shows.
5. How is Suzanne Somers remembered today?
She’s remembered not only for her iconic roles but also for her resilience, entrepreneurship, and the courage to fight for equality.
This article is written in a Justify style to ensure a polished and professional finish.
