It has been more than two decades since television lost one of its most beloved stars, John Ritter. Best remembered for his role as the clumsy yet endearing Jack Tripper in the hit sitcom Three’s Company, Ritter’s sudden death in 2003 shocked fans, colleagues, and the entertainment world alike.
On September 11, 2003, Ritter collapsed on the set of his sitcom 8 Simple Rules and was rushed to a hospital in Burbank, California. Doctors initially suspected a heart attack, but it was later revealed that he had suffered an aortic dissection—a rare and often fatal tear in the heart’s major artery. He passed away that evening, just days before his 55th birthday.
For many, Ritter will always be remembered as the lovable bachelor Jack Tripper, a role that made him a household name during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Three’s Company (1977–1984) became a cultural phenomenon, largely thanks to Ritter’s impeccable timing, physical comedy, and his ability to balance humor with warmth. His performance earned him both an Emmy Award and a Golden Globe in 1984, cementing his status as one of TV’s brightest stars.
Beyond Three’s Company, Ritter enjoyed a successful career in both television and film, appearing in projects such as Problem Child, Sling Blade, and 8 Simple Rules. Colleagues often described him as generous, kind-hearted, and a joy to work with—traits that mirrored the charm he brought to the screen.
In the years following his death, tributes poured in from fans and fellow actors. Suzanne Somers and Joyce DeWitt, Ritter’s co-stars on Three’s Company, praised not only his talent but also his infectious spirit off-camera. His passing also raised awareness about aortic dissection, leading to greater advocacy for heart health education.
Today, John Ritter’s legacy lives on. Three’s Company remains in syndication, introducing new generations to Jack Tripper’s antics, while Ritter’s children, including actor Jason Ritter, continue to honor his memory through their own careers in entertainment.
John Ritter may have left this world too soon, but his laughter, warmth, and remarkable body of work ensure that his presence will never fade. He remains a timeless reminder of the joy that great television can bring.
