Few supporting characters on classic television earned quite as much attention as Larry Dallas, the charmingly sleazy yet lovable neighbor from Three’s Company. Played with unmistakable flair by Richard Kline, Larry was never intended to be a major part of the show—yet his popularity soared, making him a fan favorite over eight seasons.
Now, decades later, Richard Kline is embracing the love fans still have for his iconic character, while also reflecting on a career that has spanned far beyond the walls of the Regal Beagle.
In a recent appearance at a retrospective panel for classic sitcoms, Kline shared stories from his time on set. “Larry was originally supposed to appear in one episode,” he revealed. “But the chemistry between John Ritter and me just clicked. From that point on, they kept bringing him back.”
Kline credits Ritter’s generosity and comedic instincts for much of Larry’s success. “John knew how to make everyone around him better. He never tried to outshine—he shared the spotlight. Working with him was a lesson in humility and joy.”
After Three’s Company wrapped in 1984, Kline continued to act in both television and theater. He appeared in series like The Love Boat, NYPD Blue, and That ’70s Show, and found steady work on Broadway and national tours. Most recently, he returned to the stage as the Wizard in Wicked, showing the same charisma that defined his sitcom days.
Kline has also become a beloved figure at fan conventions and nostalgia events, where he often signs autographs, takes photos, and tells stories about the Three’s Company days. What resonates most with fans, he says, is the authenticity of the friendships on screen.
“People always ask me what it was really like behind the scenes. And the truth is—it was a blast. Sure, there were some tensions like any long-running show, but we really did laugh. A lot.”
When asked if he’d ever reprise Larry Dallas in some way, Kline didn’t rule it out. “If someone came to me with a smart tribute or reboot idea, I’d definitely listen. Larry’s still got moves—he’d just be hitting on grandmas now.”
As sitcom reboots and legacy sequels continue to dominate the entertainment landscape, fans are quick to wonder whether Three’s Company might ever return in some form. Though Kline himself is skeptical of full reboots, he believes in honoring the original through heartfelt storytelling or documentary-style tributes.
At 80 years old, Richard Kline shows no signs of slowing down. He continues to appear at events, act in regional theater, and even dabble in directing. His role as Larry Dallas may have started as a footnote, but it became a cornerstone of his career—and an enduring piece of television history.
And to this day, fans everywhere still smile when they hear his signature line: “Trust me, babe.”
