“Come and knock on our door… we’ve been waiting for you…”
If that theme song instantly transported you back to the late 1970s and early ’80s, you’re not alone. Three’s Company was one of television’s most beloved sitcoms, running from 1977 to 1984 and keeping audiences laughing with its hilarious misunderstandings, physical comedy, and lovable characters.
The show made stars out of John Ritter, Joyce DeWitt, and Suzanne Somers, following their adventures as three single roommates sharing an apartment in Santa Monica, California. The premise was simple but revolutionary for its time: two women and one man living together platonically (though Jack pretended to be gay to satisfy their landlord’s sensibilities).
But what happened to the cast after the show ended? Their stories are filled with triumphs, tragedies, bitter feuds, and surprising comebacks. Some found continued success, others disappeared from the spotlight, and one left us far too soon.
Let’s catch up with the cast of Three’s Company and see where life took them.
John Ritter (Jack Tripper): The Heart of the Show
Born: September 17, 1948
Died: September 11, 2003 (age 54)
John Ritter was the comedic genius at the center of Three’s Company, playing the lovable and clumsy Jack Tripper—a cooking student who pretended to be gay so he could live with two female roommates.
Before Three’s Company
John came from a showbiz family—his father was legendary country singer Tex Ritter. He studied theater at USC and began his career with small TV roles in the early 1970s.
He appeared on shows like The Waltons, Hawaii Five-O, and MAS*H before landing the role that would define his career.
The Three’s Company Years (1977-1984)
As Jack Tripper, John Ritter became America’s favorite roommate. His physical comedy was reminiscent of Charlie Chaplin or Buster Keaton—he could get a laugh with just a facial expression or pratfall.
His talent was undeniable:
- Won an Emmy Award in 1984 for Outstanding Lead Actor
- Won a Golden Globe in 1984
- Became one of TV’s highest-paid actors
- His pratfalls and physical comedy became legendary
The show’s success was built largely on John’s comedic timing and likability. Jack Tripper was goofy but kind-hearted, clumsy but loyal—a character audiences truly loved.
After Three’s Company
When Three’s Company ended in 1984, ABC immediately gave John his own spinoff, “Three’s a Crowd,” where Jack finally got married. The show lasted only one season.
But John’s career continued strong:
Television success:
- Hooperman (1987-1989) – Won an Emmy for this dramatic role
- Hearts Afire (1992-1995) – Sitcom with Markie Post
- 8 Simple Rules (2002-2003) – Playing father Paul Hennessy
Film career:
- Problem Child (1990) and Problem Child 2 (1991)
- Sling Blade (1996) – Critically acclaimed dramatic role
- Bad Santa (2003) – One of his final roles
The dramatic actor: John proved he wasn’t just a comedian. His dramatic work in Sling Blade and other projects showed serious range. He was equally comfortable in drama and comedy—a rare talent.
Personal Life
You might also like to read : 10 Things Nobody Tells You About Retirement (But You Need To Know)
John was married three times:
- First to actress Nancy Morgan (1977-1996) – three children
- Brief second marriage to actress Amy Yasbeck (1999-2003) – one daughter
By all accounts, John was one of the nicest people in Hollywood—generous, kind, and devoted to his family.
His Tragic Death
On September 11, 2003, while rehearsing for 8 Simple Rules, John suddenly felt unwell. He went to the hospital complaining of chest pain and nausea.
He died that evening from an aortic dissection—a tear in the aorta that caused internal bleeding. He was only 54 years old.
The medical controversy: His family later sued, claiming doctors misdiagnosed him as having a heart attack when he actually had an aortic dissection—which requires different treatment. The case was eventually settled.
His legacy: John’s death shocked Hollywood and devastated fans. His 8 Simple Rules co-stars, including Kaley Cuoco (later of Big Bang Theory fame), were heartbroken. The show continued for one more season, dealing with his character’s death.
What we remember: John Ritter was more than Jack Tripper—he was one of television’s most talented physical comedians and a genuinely beloved person. His pratfalls, his timing, his warmth—he made us laugh and feel good.
His daughter, Stella Ritter (now Noah Ritter), and sons Jason, Carly, and Tyler have all followed in showbiz footsteps, keeping his legacy alive.
Joyce DeWitt (Janet Wood): The Girl Next Door
Born: April 23, 1949
Age: 75
Joyce DeWitt played Janet Wood, the sensible, down-to-earth brunette roommate who often played straight woman to Jack’s antics.
Before Three’s Company
Joyce studied theater at UCLA and Ball State University, earning her MFA. She worked in theater and had small TV roles before Three’s Company changed her life.
The Three’s Company Years
As Janet, Joyce was the show’s anchor—practical, intelligent, and loyal. While Chrissy (and later Cindy and Terri) were the “dumb blonde” characters and Jack was the goofball, Janet was the voice of reason.
Her contribution: Joyce was crucial to the show’s chemistry. She balanced the broader comedy with groundedness, making the premise believable. Janet felt like a real person you’d want as a friend.
After Three’s Company
When Three’s Company ended in 1984, Joyce largely stepped away from Hollywood. This surprised many—she was young, talented, and at the height of her fame.
What happened?
The absence: For nearly 20 years, Joyce DeWitt virtually disappeared from television. She occasionally appeared in TV movies or stage productions, but nothing high-profile.
Why she left:
- She wanted to avoid being typecast as Janet forever
- She was passionate about theater and pursued stage work
- She wanted privacy and a life outside Hollywood
- She was reportedly hurt by how the show ended and the business side of Hollywood
The return:
2000s-2010s: Joyce gradually returned to public life:
- Guest appearances on TV shows
- Reality TV appearances
- Theater productions
- Interviews about Three’s Company legacy
2009 controversy: Joyce was arrested for DUI in California—a shocking moment for fans of wholesome Janet. She later addressed it, took responsibility, and moved forward.
Personal Life
Joyce has always been intensely private:
- Never married (as far as public knowledge)
- No children
- Kept personal life completely out of media
- Lives quietly in California
Her perspective on fame: Joyce has said she valued her privacy more than continued fame. She enjoyed Three’s Company but didn’t want to be defined by it forever.
Relationship with the Cast
With Suzanne Somers: The two didn’t speak for 31 years after Suzanne’s controversial departure from the show. They finally reconciled in 2012 after DeWitt called Somers following her cancer diagnosis.
With John Ritter: Remained close friends until his death. She was devastated by his passing and spoke movingly at his memorial.
Today
At 75, Joyce lives quietly in Los Angeles. She occasionally does interviews about Three’s Company and attends nostalgia events. She seems content with her choices—valuing quality of life over continued fame.
What we remember: Janet was the friend everyone wanted—loyal, smart, funny, and real. Joyce brought warmth and groundedness to a show that could have been just silly. She made Janet feel like someone you actually knew.
Suzanne Somers (Chrissy Snow): The Blonde Bombshell
Born: October 16, 1946
Died: October 15, 2023 (age 76)
Suzanne Somers played Chrissy Snow, the sweet, naive blonde whose innocent misunderstandings drove much of the show’s comedy.
Before Three’s Company
Suzanne struggled for years before Three’s Company. She had small roles, appeared as a prize model on game shows, and famously appeared in a white Thunderbird in American Graffiti (1973).
Three’s Company was her breakthrough—finally, at 30, she became a star.
The Three’s Company Years (1977-1981)
As Chrissy, Suzanne became an icon. Her character was the archetypal “dumb blonde,” but Suzanne played her with such sweetness and charm that Chrissy became beloved rather than annoying.
The chemistry: Suzanne’s comedic chemistry with John Ritter was magical. Their scenes together crackled with energy. Chrissy’s innocent remarks and Jack’s double-takes became the show’s signature.
Rising stardom: By season 4, Suzanne was a superstar. Her image was everywhere—posters, magazine covers, merchandise. She was one of TV’s most recognizable faces.