It has been more than forty-five years since Three’s Company first premiered in 1977, but the fascination with what really went on behind the scenes has not faded. While the sitcom became an instant hit for its outrageous misunderstandings and slapstick comedy, life on set was often just as dramatic as the storylines.
According to cast and crew recollections, John Ritter was the glue that kept everyone together. Known for his warmth, kindness, and impeccable timing, Ritter often lightened the mood during tense production days. He would crack jokes, play pranks, or even improvise lines that left the crew in stitches. Many have said his presence was the reason the show could continue even when conflicts boiled over.
One of the biggest controversies surrounded Suzanne Somers, who played the bubbly Chrissy Snow. In 1980, Somers demanded a significant pay increase, equal to that of her co-star Ritter. When producers refused, she staged a contract standoff that changed her trajectory on the show forever. Her role was drastically reduced—sometimes only appearing for a single scene per episode—and soon after, she left the series. Fans at the time were stunned, and rumors spread about infighting among the cast. Looking back now, television historians argue that Somers’ stand was groundbreaking, pushing forward the conversation on equal pay for women in Hollywood.
Meanwhile, Joyce DeWitt (Janet) dealt with the sudden pressure of fame in quieter ways. She later admitted that the media attention and fan frenzy sometimes made her feel trapped. At one point, she avoided public appearances altogether, preferring to focus strictly on the work. Even so, DeWitt and Ritter’s chemistry on-screen helped anchor the show through its many ups and downs.
What makes these behind-the-scenes revelations so fascinating today is that they reveal how much dedication it took to produce a series that still makes audiences laugh. Despite contract wars, bruised egos, and personal struggles, the cast delivered a comedy classic that continues to be rediscovered by new generations.
