When it comes to classic sitcoms, Three’s Company remains one of the most beloved TV shows of all time. With its hilarious misunderstandings, iconic cast, and groundbreaking comedy, it captured the hearts of millions. But even the most die-hard fans don’t know everything about this legendary series.
From behind-the-scenes drama to hidden Easter eggs, we’re diving deep into 15 fascinating facts about Three’s Company that will completely change the way you see the show!
1. The Show Was Based on a British Sitcom
Believe it or not, Three’s Company wasn’t an original concept! It was actually adapted from a British sitcom called Man About the House. While the basic premise remained the same, the American version added its own unique charm and humor.
2. Suzanne Somers Was Fired Over a Pay Dispute
Suzanne Somers, who played the iconic Chrissy Snow, was abruptly fired from the show. The reason? She demanded a raise to match John Ritter’s salary. The producers refused, and after season five, she was let go. Her sudden exit left fans shocked, and her character was awkwardly written out.
3. John Ritter Had a Banned Episode
Did you know that an episode of Three’s Company was actually pulled from syndication? In one particular episode, John Ritter’s character, Jack Tripper, was caught wearing extremely short shorts that accidentally revealed more than intended. This led to the episode being banned from re-airing for years!
4. The Show Was Considered Controversial
Back in the late 1970s, the idea of a man living with two women was seen as scandalous. Many conservative groups protested Three’s Company, claiming it was inappropriate. However, the show’s humor and charm won over audiences, making it a massive hit.
5. Norman Fell Regretted Leaving the Show
Norman Fell, who played the grumpy landlord Mr. Roper, left Three’s Company to star in a spin-off called The Ropers. Unfortunately, the spin-off didn’t perform well, and when Fell wanted to return to Three’s Company, the producers refused to bring him back.
6. Priscilla Barnes Hated Playing Terri Alden
Priscilla Barnes replaced Suzanne Somers as the new roommate, Terri Alden. However, behind the scenes, Barnes was unhappy. She later revealed in interviews that working on Three’s Company was a miserable experience due to the show’s intense atmosphere and constant drama.
7. The Show’s Theme Song Became a Cultural Phenomenon
“Come and knock on our door…” – the Three’s Company theme song is instantly recognizable! Sung by Ray Charles (not the Ray Charles, but another musician with the same name), the song became one of the most memorable TV themes of all time.
8. Don Knotts Wasn’t the First Choice for Mr. Furley
After Norman Fell’s departure, Don Knotts stepped in as the eccentric landlord, Mr. Furley. But did you know he wasn’t the original choice? The producers initially considered other comedic actors before ultimately casting Knotts, who became a fan favorite.
9. Joyce DeWitt and Suzanne Somers Had a 30-Year Feud
Co-stars Joyce DeWitt (Janet) and Suzanne Somers (Chrissy) didn’t speak for over 30 years after Somers was fired. The tension was real, but in 2012, they finally reconciled during an emotional TV reunion.
10. John Ritter Was the Only Actor to Appear in Every Episode
While the cast changed multiple times over the years, John Ritter remained the heart of the show. He was the only actor to appear in all 172 episodes of Three’s Company.
11. A Spin-Off Starring Jack Tripper Flopped
After Three’s Company ended, John Ritter starred in a spin-off called Three’s a Crowd. Unfortunately, the show failed to capture the magic of its predecessor and was canceled after just one season.
12. The Apartment Layout Was Illogical
If you pay close attention, the layout of the apartment doesn’t make much sense. The bathroom door constantly shifts locations, and the kitchen sometimes seems to move! It’s one of those small but funny inconsistencies that fans love to point out.
13. The Show Almost Had a Fourth Roommate
At one point, the producers considered adding a fourth roommate to shake things up. However, they ultimately decided against it, believing it would ruin the dynamic of the trio.
14. A Hidden Tribute to John Ritter Exists
After John Ritter’s untimely passing in 2003, many tributes were made in his honor. In the TV show 8 Simple Rules, which he starred in before his death, subtle nods to Three’s Company were included to honor his legacy.
15. The Series Finale Was Bittersweet
While Three’s Company had a solid ending, many fans felt it lacked closure. Jack finally found love, but the roommates moving out left viewers feeling nostalgic and longing for more. To this day, it remains one of the most talked-about sitcom finales.
Conclusion
Three’s Company was more than just a sitcom—it was a cultural phenomenon that changed TV comedy forever. With unforgettable characters, hilarious moments, and behind-the-scenes drama, it remains a fan favorite to this day. Whether you’re a longtime viewer or just discovering the show, these 15 facts add a whole new layer of appreciation for this classic series.
FAQs
1. Why did Suzanne Somers leave Three’s Company?
She was fired after demanding a pay raise equal to John Ritter’s salary, which the producers refused to grant.
2. Did Joyce DeWitt and Suzanne Somers ever make up?
Yes! After over 30 years of not speaking, they reconciled in 2012 during a heartfelt TV reunion.
3. Was Three’s Company really controversial?
Yes, at the time, the idea of a man living with two women was considered scandalous, and the show faced backlash from conservative groups.
4. Did John Ritter enjoy working on the show?
Absolutely! He loved playing Jack Tripper and remained dedicated to the show until its final episode.
5. Are there any spin-offs of Three’s Company?
Yes, The Ropers and Three’s a Crowd were both spin-offs, but neither achieved the success of the original show.
