In the late 1970s and early 1980s, Three’s Company was a television sensation, drawing millions of viewers each week. At the heart of its success was Suzanne Somers, who portrayed the lovable and somewhat ditsy Chrissy Snow. However, in 1981, Somers was abruptly written out of the show, leaving fans and industry insiders alike wondering: why did she leave?
The Rise of Suzanne Somers
Before her departure, Suzanne Somers was at the peak of her career. She had become a household name, gracing magazine covers and appearing on talk shows. Her portrayal of Chrissy Snow made her one of the most recognizable faces on television.
The Salary Disparity
By 1980, Somers had become the breakout star of Three’s Company. However, despite her popularity, she was earning significantly less than her co-star, John Ritter. Reports indicate that while Ritter was making $150,000 per episode, Somers was earning only $30,000
The Negotiation
Feeling that her salary did not reflect her contribution to the show’s success, Somers, with the guidance of her husband and manager Alan Hamel, sought to renegotiate her contract. She requested a raise to $150,000 per episode, aligning her pay with Ritter’s. Additionally, she sought 10% of the show’s profits
The Producers’ Response
The producers of Three’s Company were not receptive to Somers’ demands. They reportedly viewed her request as unreasonable and were unwilling to meet her terms. This led to a breakdown in negotiations.
The Fallout
In the aftermath of the failed negotiations, Somers was written out of the show. Her character, Chrissy Snow, was said to have gone to visit her mother, and she was rarely seen in the episodes that followed. This abrupt exit left fans shocked and disappointed.
The Aftermath
Following her departure from Three’s Company, Somers faced significant challenges in her career. She was reportedly blacklisted in Hollywood, making it difficult for her to find work in television and film
The Rebuilding Phase
Despite the setbacks, Somers reinvented herself. She became a successful entrepreneur, promoting products like the ThighMaster, which became a cultural phenomenon. She also authored several books and became a spokesperson for various products
The Reconciliation
Years later, Somers and her former co-star John Ritter reconciled. In 1995, with the encouragement of Ritter’s widow, Amy Yasbeck, the two reunited at a Broadway premiere. They embraced and made amends, providing closure to their past
The Legacy
Suzanne Somers’ departure from Three’s Company highlighted issues of gender and pay disparity in the entertainment industry. Her bold move to demand equal pay paved the way for future discussions on fair compensation for women in Hollywood.
Conclusion
Suzanne Somers’ exit from Three’s Company was not just a career setback; it was a pivotal moment in television history. Her courage to stand up for equal pay challenged the status quo and sparked conversations that continue to this day.
