More than four decades since Three’s Company aired its final episode, the classic American sitcom continues to be cherished by fans across generations. Featuring a unique blend of physical comedy, lighthearted misunderstandings, and an iconic cast, the show left an indelible mark on television history.
One of the show’s key figures, actress Joyce DeWitt, who portrayed Janet Wood, recently spoke about the series’ legacy and the emotional connection fans still have with the program. Her comments offer an authentic and heartfelt perspective on what made Three’s Company such a beloved piece of pop culture.
A Sitcom That Defined an Era
Three’s Company originally aired on ABC from 1977 to 1984 and quickly became a ratings powerhouse. The show starred John Ritter as Jack Tripper, Suzanne Somers as Chrissy Snow, and Joyce DeWitt as Janet Wood—three roommates navigating humorous everyday situations under the pretense that Jack was gay in order to keep their landlord comfortable with the living arrangement, a concept adapted from the British sitcom Man About the House.
DeWitt appeared in 171 episodes, and her portrayal of Janet contributed significantly to the show’s enduring popularity. In interviews with US Weekly and The Hamilton Spectator, DeWitt shared that she remains touched by fans who describe the show as a “safe haven” during difficult times in their youth.
Behind the Laughter: Meaning and Friendship
Though Three’s Company was often known for its slapstick humor and comedic timing, DeWitt believes it carried deeper themes of trust and connection. Speaking to The Hamilton Spectator, she explained the underlying values of the show.
The characters’ enduring friendship and loyalty were major draws for viewers, according to DeWitt. Those values, she says, gave the sitcom emotional resonance beyond its comedic structure.
The Legacy of John Ritter and Suzanne Somers
Joyce DeWitt has also spoken fondly of her former co-stars, both of whom have passed away. John Ritter died in 2003 due to an aortic dissection, and Suzanne Somers passed away in 2023 following a long battle with breast cancer.
In her comments to US Weekly, DeWitt described Ritter as “a true gift” and praised Somers as “absolutely wonderful.” These sentiments reflect a deep appreciation for her co-stars’ contributions to television and their impact on her own life.
Photos from the set reveal a camaraderie that extended off-screen. DeWitt, Somers, and Ritter often appeared together in promotional material that captured the spirit of the show.
Conflict and Reconciliation
Although the show’s public image was one of harmony and humor, Three’s Company experienced internal challenges—particularly surrounding Somers’ departure from the series. According to various interviews and public records, Suzanne Somers requested a salary raise in 1980, reportedly seeking compensation equal to her male co-star, John Ritter. When negotiations did not go as planned, Somers was written out of the show during its fifth season.
In a 2020 appearance on Entertainment Tonight, Somers shared that the fallout led to years of estrangement from the cast. DeWitt, in turn, acknowledged in separate interviews that the two women had different career paths and life circumstances at the time.
Despite their differences, the pair eventually reunited. In 2012, DeWitt appeared on Somers’ talk show, Suzanne Somers Breaking Through. The episode featured a heartfelt conversation and an embrace that many fans viewed as a long-overdue moment of healing.
Their reconciliation marked a significant moment in the legacy of Three’s Company, showing that time and mutual respect can bridge even long-standing divides.
A Lasting Impact
Joyce DeWitt continues to appear in theater and television projects, but her association with Three’s Company remains her most prominent legacy. Far from resenting the connection, she embraces it as a testament to the joy the show brought to audiences.
DeWitt’s reflections remind us that television, while often considered mere entertainment, can offer comfort, laughter, and even a sense of belonging—especially during uncertain times.
Remembering Three’s Company
The enduring success of Three’s Company stems not only from its comedic genius but also from its heart. Joyce DeWitt’s continued engagement with fans, along with her sincere tributes to her former co-stars, reinforces the show’s value in American television history.
Today, the program is widely available through syndication and streaming platforms, where it continues to reach new audiences. Critics and fans alike recognize it as a defining moment in 1970s and 1980s television culture, and its legacy is secure thanks to the enduring affection of those who grew up watching it—and those discovering it anew.
As DeWitt, now in her 70s, looks back on her time with the show, her reflections offer a reminder that behind the humor and high jinks were real stories of friendship, perseverance, and growth.
Sources:
- US Weekly Interviews with Joyce DeWitt
- The Hamilton Spectator Interview with Joyce DeWitt
- Entertainment Tonight segment with Suzanne Somers (2020)
- Suzanne Somers Breaking Through (2012 episode archive)
- American Broadcasting Company (ABC) archives on Three’s Company
- Official reports on the passing of John Ritter (2003) and Suzanne Somers (2023)
