Introduction: The Iconic TV Show and Its Cast
Three’s Company is an iconic sitcom that aired from 1977 to 1984, becoming one of the most beloved shows of its time. The show, known for its hilarious and often racy plotlines, featured an unforgettable cast of characters. But did you know that there’s more to the story of Three’s Company than just the laugh-out-loud moments? The show underwent significant changes over its run, including the departure of key stars like Suzanne Somers (Chrissy Snow), John Ritter (Jack Tripper), and Joyce DeWitt (Janet Wood). Why did these major stars leave the series? Let’s dive into the real story behind the departures of Three’s Company‘s beloved stars.
The Rise of ‘Three’s Company’ and Its Main Cast
Before we get into the reasons behind the cast changes, let’s take a moment to remember why Three’s Company became a cultural phenomenon. The show originally starred John Ritter as the lovable and bumbling Jack Tripper, Suzanne Somers as the ditsy but charming Chrissy Snow, and Joyce DeWitt as the sensible Janet Wood. The premise of the show—Jack, a man living with two women as roommates—was groundbreaking for its time, full of slapstick comedy and risqué innuendos.
The show quickly became a ratings hit, with its stars gaining massive popularity. John Ritter’s physical comedy, Suzanne Somers’ bubbly persona, and Joyce DeWitt’s grounded, no-nonsense character made for a winning combination. However, despite the show’s success, things started to change behind the scenes.
Why Suzanne Somers Left ‘Three’s Company’
The Contract Dispute
Suzanne Somers, who played Chrissy Snow, was undoubtedly one of the breakout stars of Three’s Company. Her portrayal of the fun, naive, and lovable Chrissy became iconic, and she quickly became a fan favorite. But in the third season, something changed.
Somers was seeking a salary increase, arguing that she deserved more money given her popularity and the show’s success. She wanted to be paid as much as her co-star, John Ritter, who was making significantly more at the time. Somers asked for a substantial raise, but negotiations broke down.
The Fallout with Producers
The producers and network felt that Somers’ demands were unreasonable. What followed was a series of public disagreements and tensions between Somers and the producers, which eventually led to her being written out of the show. The producers replaced Chrissy with a new character, Cindy Snow (played by Jenilee Harrison), in an attempt to keep the chemistry going.
Somers’ exit was a major turning point for the series. Fans were upset about her departure, and it created a dramatic shift in the show’s dynamic. However, this was just the beginning of the behind-the-scenes drama.
John Ritter’s Unexpected Absence
The Health Issues and Departure
John Ritter, who played the lovable Jack Tripper, was a key part of Three’s Company‘s success. His impeccable timing and slapstick humor were integral to the show’s charm. However, Ritter’s life took an unexpected turn when he began to experience health problems.
In the early 1980s, Ritter’s health began to decline due to complications from a ruptured artery. He took some time off the show to deal with his health issues. While he returned later, the rumors and speculation around his health added to the tension between him and the producers.
The Show’s Creative Direction and Ritter’s Exit
As Three’s Company continued, Ritter’s character underwent a shift to accommodate these health concerns. He also began to question the creative direction of the show, feeling that the scripts were no longer showcasing his strengths. The decision was made for Ritter to move on after season 8, leading to his departure from the show.
Fans were devastated to see Jack Tripper leave, and his absence marked another major change in the show’s dynamic. The show tried to continue without him, but the spark of the original trio was lost.
Joyce DeWitt’s Role in the Drama
The Strain Behind the Scenes
Joyce DeWitt, who portrayed Janet Wood, was a grounding force in Three’s Company. Janet was the sensible one, the character that kept things from spiraling too far into chaos. However, DeWitt’s role behind the scenes became increasingly strained.
DeWitt, like her co-stars, was unhappy with how things were progressing on the set. She often found herself in the middle of the drama between Somers and the producers, and tensions grew between her and the network.
Joyce’s Discontent and Departure Rumors
Although DeWitt’s departure was not as publicized as Somers’ and Ritter’s, rumors swirled that she was dissatisfied with the way her character was written. As the show moved into its final seasons, Janet’s role seemed less central, with new characters being introduced. DeWitt was also reportedly unhappy with the way she was being treated by the network, leading to her decision to leave Three’s Company after its final season in 1984.
The Impact on ‘Three’s Company’ and Its Legacy
The Loss of the Original Trio
The departures of Suzanne Somers, John Ritter, and Joyce DeWitt were a major blow to Three’s Company. The trio had been the heart of the show, and without them, the show’s dynamic felt incomplete. The chemistry that had made the show so popular was lost, and despite attempts to introduce new characters and plotlines, the show never quite regained its former magic.
The Show’s Lasting Influence
Even though the original cast left, Three’s Company remained a cultural touchstone for years. It paved the way for future sitcoms, especially in terms of breaking boundaries with its humor and portrayal of relationships. The show’s iconic opening theme, its wild antics, and the unforgettable characters left a lasting legacy in the world of television comedy.
Conclusion: The End of an Era
The real story behind the departure of Three’s Company stars Suzanne Somers, John Ritter, and Joyce DeWitt is one of drama, contract disputes, and health struggles. While these behind-the-scenes tensions ultimately led to the show’s evolution and eventual end, Three’s Company will forever remain a cornerstone of 70s and 80s television. The show’s influence on sitcoms and pop culture is undeniable, and the characters that Ritter, Somers, and DeWitt portrayed will continue to be remembered with fondness.
FAQs
1. Why did Suzanne Somers leave Three’s Company?
Suzanne Somers left the show due to a contract dispute over salary, as she demanded a raise that was not granted by the producers.
2. Was John Ritter’s departure related to health issues?
Yes, John Ritter experienced health problems, including a ruptured artery, which led to his temporary absence from the show.
3. How did the departure of the main cast affect Three’s Company?
The departure of the main cast members led to a shift in the show’s dynamic, and it struggled to regain its earlier success.
4. Did Joyce DeWitt leave Three’s Company due to the drama behind the scenes?
Yes, Joyce DeWitt was reportedly unhappy with the way her character was treated, as well as the tensions between the cast and producers.
5. What impact did Three’s Company have on television?
Three’s Company broke new ground in sitcoms, known for its boundary-pushing humor, iconic characters, and its portrayal of unconventional living arrangements, influencing future television comedies.
