The Iconic Show that Took TV by Storm: Three’s Company
Three’s Company, a groundbreaking sitcom that aired from 1977 to 1984, remains one of the most beloved TV series in history. Its unique premise, quirky characters, and memorable catchphrases made it a fan favorite. But what happens when you peel back the curtain and look at what went on behind the scenes? Get ready to uncover some mind-blowing facts and fun trivia that you might not have known about this iconic show!
The Birth of Three’s Company: An Idea That Sparked a Phenomenon
Three’s Company was inspired by a British sitcom, Man About the House. The American version, however, quickly evolved into a completely different show. The plot revolves around a man, Jack Tripper, who moves in with two female roommates and, to avoid scandal, pretends to be gay. This hilarious setup brought about a cultural shift and a new wave of sitcoms that embraced wacky premises and boundary-pushing humor.
The Show’s Cast: Stars Who Almost Didn’t Make It
The chemistry between the cast members was undeniably part of what made the show so successful. However, some key actors almost didn’t land their roles! For instance, Suzanne Somers, who played Chrissy Snow, almost didn’t get the part. The producers were initially looking for a more experienced actress, but Somers managed to impress them with her charisma and comedic timing.
John Ritter’s Iconic Jack Tripper: A Role He Was Born to Play
John Ritter, the beloved actor who portrayed Jack Tripper, was a fan favorite and for good reason. What many don’t know is that Ritter had to fight for the role. The producers originally wanted to cast someone else, but Ritter’s passion for the character won them over. His impeccable physical comedy and perfect timing made Jack Tripper a household name and one of the most memorable sitcom characters of all time.
Behind the Scenes Drama: When the Show Almost Ended
Believe it or not, Three’s Company nearly came to a premature end during its early years due to internal conflicts and contract disputes. One of the most publicized disputes involved Suzanne Somers and the producers. After asking for a pay raise that would bring her in line with her co-stars, Somers was written off the show in a dramatic fashion. Her departure caused a rift with both fans and cast members. Yet, despite the drama, the show continued to thrive.
The Impact of Suzanne Somers’ Exit: How the Show Changed
After Suzanne Somers left, her character was written out as Chrissy Snow’s cousin, Cindy, played by Jenilee Harrison. Later on, Priscilla Barnes joined the show as the third roommate, Terri Alden. While Somers’ departure initially caused an uproar, the show found new life with the new characters and continued to entertain audiences for years.
Jack and Janet’s Chemistry: A Friendship Fans Loved
Jack Tripper’s relationship with his two roommates, Janet and Chrissy, was a cornerstone of Three’s Company. But it wasn’t just the interactions between Jack and Chrissy that had fans laughing—it was also his bond with Janet, played by Joyce DeWitt. Jack and Janet’s friendly yet flirtatious relationship was one of the highlights of the series. The duo’s comedic timing and quirky dynamic kept viewers coming back week after week.
The Real Reason Jack Always Lived With Two Women
The dynamic of Jack living with two women—especially in the 1970s—was a major selling point for the show. The idea of a man sharing an apartment with two women was somewhat controversial at the time, which only added to its appeal. The plot of pretending Jack was gay to avoid scandal might seem outrageous today, but it was ahead of its time in terms of social commentary and breaking boundaries on TV.
Did You Know? The Set Was Built to Look Like a Real Apartment
The set for Three’s Company was built with incredible attention to detail. The creators wanted it to look as realistic as possible, which is why the iconic living room and kitchen felt so lived-in. The crew went to great lengths to create a space that felt like a true apartment in Santa Monica, even though it was all just an elaborate set!
The Show’s Music: More Than Just a Theme Song
The Three’s Company theme song, “Come and Knock on Our Door,” was iconic in its own right, but did you know that the show’s music played a significant role in the overall feel of the series? The show’s musical cues, upbeat and playful in nature, contributed greatly to its lighthearted, comedic atmosphere.
How the Show Was Pioneering for LGBTQ Representation
While Three’s Company may seem like just a funny sitcom, its premise was also pioneering in terms of LGBTQ representation on TV. Jack’s decision to pretend to be gay in order to live with two women challenged societal norms and sparked conversations about gender roles, sexuality, and the expectations placed on relationships in the 1970s. The show used humor as a way to break down stereotypes while entertaining its audience.
Behind-the-Scenes Revelations: The Cast Had Their Own Secrets
While Three’s Company was all about laughs, there were some secrets that the cast kept hidden from the public. For instance, John Ritter and Joyce DeWitt didn’t always get along behind the scenes. The two had a tense relationship, with rumors swirling about their occasional disagreements. Despite this, they were professional on set, and their onscreen chemistry remained as strong as ever.
The Impact of Three’s Company on Future Sitcoms
Three’s Company paved the way for other sitcoms that pushed the envelope in terms of humor and content. The show’s mixture of physical comedy, misunderstandings, and boundary-pushing topics became the blueprint for later sitcoms like The Golden Girls, Friends, and Will & Grace. It helped create a new genre of comedy that was both lighthearted and socially relevant.
Legacy of Three’s Company: How It Changed TV Forever
Even after it ended, Three’s Company left a lasting impact on television. It redefined what could be done with sitcoms, showing that it was possible to blend humor with thought-provoking social commentary. Its success proved that shows didn’t have to be completely “safe” to succeed. Instead, TV could be edgy, fun, and even a bit controversial—and audiences loved it.
Why Fans Still Watch Three’s Company Today
Despite being over 40 years old, Three’s Company remains a fan favorite. Its timeless humor, unforgettable characters, and heartwarming moments make it just as watchable today as it was in the 70s. Fans continue to tune in, whether for nostalgia or just to enjoy the classic comedy, proving that some shows never go out of style.
Fun Fact: The Show Had a Spin-Off!
Did you know that Three’s Company actually had a spin-off show? Three’s a Crowd, which aired in 1984, followed Jack Tripper after he got married. Unfortunately, the spin-off didn’t have the same success as the original, but it’s still a fun footnote in the history of the show.
Conclusion: The Enduring Charm of Three’s Company
Three’s Company remains an iconic sitcom that continues to entertain viewers across generations. Its behind-the-scenes drama, hilarious moments, and groundbreaking premise all contributed to its status as a cultural touchstone. Whether you’re revisiting the show for the first time or reliving old memories, there’s no denying the impact it had on television and pop culture.
FAQs
1. Why did Suzanne Somers leave Three’s Company?
Suzanne Somers left after a dispute over pay raises. She requested a higher salary, but producers did not agree, which ultimately led to her departure.
2. What is the significance of Jack pretending to be gay in Three’s Company?
Jack’s pretend homosexuality was a plot device that helped create comedic situations while challenging societal norms regarding relationships and sexuality in the 1970s.
3. Did John Ritter and Joyce DeWitt get along off-screen?
While their on-screen chemistry was undeniable, John Ritter and Joyce DeWitt reportedly had a strained relationship behind the scenes, though they remained professional.
4. Was Three’s Company ever controversial?
Yes, the show pushed boundaries in terms of humor, gender roles, and sexuality, which sparked both praise and criticism during its time on air.
5. How did Three’s Company influence other sitcoms?
Three’s Company paved the way for future sitcoms by blending physical comedy with deeper social themes, inspiring shows like Will & Grace and Friends.
