Three’s Company was a beloved sitcom that graced American television screens from 1977 to 1984. With its quirky humor and iconic cast, it became a cultural phenomenon. The show, which revolved around three roommates navigating hilarious misunderstandings and outrageous situations, made stars out of its cast members. But what happened to the actors after the show’s fame faded? In this article, we’ll explore the sad reality of what happened to the cast of Three’s Company, revealing the triumphs, struggles, and untold stories of these former stars.
The Rise of Three’s Company: A TV Revolution
Before we dive into the fates of the cast, let’s take a brief look at the incredible rise of Three’s Company. This sitcom pushed boundaries, particularly with its bold premise of two women living with a man, a concept that had never been explored in this format before. Starring John Ritter, Suzanne Somers, and Joyce DeWitt, the show’s blend of humor, charm, and innuendo quickly made it a household name.
John Ritter: The Heart of Three’s Company
John Ritter, the lovable goofball Jack Tripper, became a TV icon for his slapstick humor and impeccable comedic timing. His physical comedy and ability to navigate complex situations with a smile made him a fan favorite. But behind the scenes, John faced personal challenges that few knew about.
The Untimely Passing of John Ritter
Sadly, in 2003, John Ritter passed away suddenly from an aortic dissection, leaving his fans and colleagues heartbroken. He was only 54 years old. His death was a tragic reminder of how fleeting life can be, especially for someone who brought so much joy to others. After his passing, many of his former castmates, including Suzanne Somers and Joyce DeWitt, expressed their grief and admiration for John’s talent, kindness, and generosity.
John’s Legacy Lives On
Though his life was cut short, John Ritter’s legacy remains. His work in sitcoms, especially Three’s Company, continues to inspire a new generation of comedians and actors. Many of his co-stars still fondly remember the joy he brought to set, and his influence is still felt in the world of television.
Suzanne Somers: From TV Star to Entrepreneur
Suzanne Somers portrayed Chrissy Snow, the bubbly and slightly naïve blonde roommate. She quickly became a sensation, known for her comedic timing and wide-eyed innocence. However, Suzanne’s journey after Three’s Company was far from easy.
Suzanne’s Departure and Career Struggles
Suzanne left Three’s Company after season 5 due to a salary dispute. She was seeking a significant pay raise, but the producers refused, leading to her departure from the show. This move caused tension between Suzanne and her co-stars, particularly Joyce DeWitt. After leaving, Suzanne faced a tough period in her career, with roles in several unsuccessful TV shows and movies.
Suzanne Somers’ Success Beyond Three’s Company
Despite her struggles, Suzanne eventually found success in other ventures. She became a best-selling author, an infomercial queen with her Thighmaster product, and later transitioned into a successful entrepreneur. Her resilience and business acumen have made her a lasting figure in pop culture, even if it wasn’t in the realm of acting that she achieved most of her fame.
Joyce DeWitt: The Steady Anchor of Three’s Company
As Janet Wood, Joyce DeWitt played the sensible and grounded roommate who often found herself in the middle of the chaotic situations caused by Jack and Chrissy. While her role was essential to the success of the show, Joyce’s life after Three’s Company took a different turn compared to her co-stars.
Joyce’s Low-Profile Life After the Show
Unlike many of her castmates, Joyce DeWitt kept a relatively low profile after leaving Three’s Company. Although she appeared in a few TV shows and movies, she struggled to find the same level of fame that her co-stars did. Joyce preferred a quieter life, focusing more on theater and personal projects. Over the years, Joyce has made occasional appearances in interviews, but she has never been one to chase the spotlight.
Joyce’s Personal Struggles
Despite her efforts to keep a low profile, Joyce faced her share of personal challenges. In 2009, she was arrested for a DUI, which became a headline-making story. However, Joyce has largely kept out of the tabloids and continued to live her life on her terms, focusing on what truly matters to her.
The Untold Stories of Three’s Company Cast: Behind the Laughter
While Three’s Company was full of laughter and lighthearted moments, the cast faced their own personal and professional struggles behind the scenes. The show’s success didn’t shield them from the difficulties of fame and the pressures that came with it.
The Tension Between the Cast Members
The behind-the-scenes tensions, particularly between Suzanne Somers and the other cast members, are well-documented. After Suzanne’s departure from the show, rumors spread that the relationship between her and John Ritter and Joyce DeWitt was strained. However, in later years, Suzanne made peace with her former co-stars, and they all expressed mutual respect for one another.
The Dark Side of Fame: Personal Struggles
As with many celebrities, the fame that came with Three’s Company wasn’t without its consequences. The cast faced pressure from the media, personal issues, and the realities of being constantly in the public eye. These struggles were often overlooked by fans, who only saw their characters on screen.
The Legacy of Three’s Company
Despite the challenges, Three’s Company remains a beloved sitcom in the hearts of millions. The chemistry between the cast, the iconic one-liners, and the unforgettable moments still resonate with audiences today. The show was groundbreaking for its time and helped shape the sitcom genre for years to come.
Reboots and Revivals: Can Three’s Company Return?
With the recent trend of reviving classic TV shows, many have wondered if Three’s Company will ever make a comeback. Although there have been discussions over the years about a potential reboot or revival, the original magic of the show is something that’s difficult to replicate. The original cast brought something special to the table that can never truly be recreated.
Three’s Company’s Enduring Influence
Even without a reboot, Three’s Company’s influence can still be seen in TV shows today. The dynamic between roommates, the humorous misunderstandings, and the strong character-driven comedy have inspired countless sitcoms that followed.
Conclusion: What We Can Learn From the Cast of Three’s Company
The cast of Three’s Company went on to face both triumphs and tragedies after the show ended. While their lives were often difficult and filled with challenges, their contributions to television and entertainment cannot be denied. We can all learn from their resilience, their ability to overcome obstacles, and the way they kept pushing forward even after their time in the spotlight faded.
FAQs
1. What happened to John Ritter after Three’s Company? John Ritter became a beloved star after Three’s Company, but tragically passed away from an aortic dissection in 2003 at the age of 54.
2. Why did Suzanne Somers leave Three’s Company? Suzanne Somers left Three’s Company after season 5 due to a salary dispute with the producers, which caused tension on set.
3. Did Joyce DeWitt struggle after Three’s Company? Yes, Joyce DeWitt kept a low profile after the show and faced personal struggles, including an arrest for DUI in 2009.
4. Can Three’s Company ever be rebooted? While there have been talks about a reboot, it’s unlikely that any revival can capture the original magic of the show and its cast.
5. What made Three’s Company so popular? Three’s Company was known for its unique premise, hilarious misunderstandings, and iconic performances by the cast, making it a cultural phenomenon of the 1970s and 1980s.
