Joyce DeWitt’s Candid Confession Confirms What We All Suspected

Decades may have passed since Three’s Company graced our screens, but its laughter still echoes in our hearts.

With unforgettable characters and side-splitting misunderstandings, this classic sitcom revolutionized the genre. Now, Joyce DeWitt reveals what really made the show a timeless treasure…

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From the hilarious antics of three single roommates to the unforgettable performances of John Ritter and Suzanne Somers, Three’s Company remains a beloved staple of American television. It’s hard to believe it’s been 40 years since the series finale aired on ABC, yet its charm and humor still resonate today.

To illustrate how long ago Three’s Company became a hit, I just watched the intro. Seeing the shots from Santa Monica Pier during the show’s prime reminds me of how much has changed since they filmed there.

Sadly, neither John Ritter nor Suzanne Somers are with us anymore; both were taken from us far too soon. But keeping the spirit of Three’s Company alive is Joyce DeWitt, 75, who shares her vibrant stories and cherished memories from the beloved show.

”The most dear, precious, tender – and utterly unexpected – experiences that have come from working in ‘Three’s Company’ are the many, many adults who have told me that ‘Three’s Company’ was a safe haven they could count on during their teen years – for some, the only safe haven,” Joyce DeWitt told US Weekly.

Joyce DeWitt circa 1978. (Photo by Images Press/IMAGES/Getty Images)
Starring as Janet Wood alongside John Ritter and Suzanne Somers, DeWitt became a television icon and she was such a day brightener for millions.

She appeared in 171 episodes of the show between 1976 and 1984.

“It was such a gift. I mean, it was iconic. But who would have thought it?” Joyce DeWitt told The Spec. “All we were trying to do was make people laugh. When I think about it, the show was really an attempt to do a contemporary version of a 16th-century farce. It was about silliness running wild. I mean, we were talking about serious issues at times, but that was always somewhere underneath.”

“John Ritter used to say, ‘We don’t want people to just laugh but to fall over their couch laughing,’” she added. “The real issue was always the depth of friendship and the love those characters had for each other. That’s what drew people to them.”

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After Three’s Company ended, DeWitt stepped away from the spotlight for over a decade before making her comeback to acting.

Yet, no matter what she has accomplished or plans to do in the future, the vast majority will always connect her with that iconic show. And there’s a very simple reason for that, according to DeWitt.

“It was a ‘time out’ from the oppressive, challenging, difficult circumstances they were navigating in their young lives,” DeWitt says and adds:

“And, oh by the way, they say the characters also did stupid, crazy stuff that made them laugh. But it was the love, trust and support of the characters, one to the other, that made them lifelong fans.”

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When you look at unedited photos from the Three’s Company set, the camaraderie among the cast shines through, especially in the images of Joyce DeWitt and Suzanne Somers, who played the beloved Chrissy Snow.

Both actresses delivered iconic performances, portraying young women navigating a male-dominated industry. They contributed just as much to the show’s success as John Ritter, and in those early days, their smiles in photos tell a story of friendship and collaboration.

Yet, beneath the laughter, tensions simmered. While Somers was celebrated for her role as “the dumbest blonde in America,” her fight for equal pay created rifts that would grow over time. As she demanded a 500% salary increase — from $30,000 to $150,000 — her relationship with DeWitt became strained. The set, once filled with joy, was now fraught with conflict.

Somers had always viewed the show as a business among serious actors, and she realized that her approach annoyed her co-stars.

Somers was ultimately fired but had to finish the fifth season under strange circumstances. Isolated from her castmates, she filmed her scenes through bizarre phone calls, escorted by security. The tension escalated, leading to a heartbreaking split between Somers and DeWitt.

For over 30 years, they didn’t speak, a silence that seemed hard to reconcile when you viewed their early years together.

”They painted me as she’s trying to ruin the show,” Somers said in 2020. “So, I never talked to anybody on that show ever again. Ever again.”

Some speculated that DeWitt’s rivalry contributed to Somers’ exit, but it was ultimately the salary negotiations that drove a wedge between them.

Their differing circumstances — Somers as a single mother needing financial security versus DeWitt’s focus on her craft — further complicated their relationship.

“We had very different approaches to our careers,” DeWitt said of the relationship between her and Somers following the show. “We had very different needs. I did not have a child that I was supporting on my own. I didn’t have a business head, so I didn’t understand someone who did.”

However, in a beautiful twist, the two finally reunited in February 2012 on Somers’ talk show, Breaking Through. It was clear that they had buried the hatchet.

The former co-stars shared a heartfelt hug, and their open conversation about the past offered a glimpse of healing.

DeWitt expressed her deep respect for Somers’s accomplishments, saying, “You went up against ruthlessness, and it came down, but what you’ve gone on to do is immeasurable.” This moment highlighted the strength of their journey and the power of reconciliation. The two actresses remained friends until Somers’s tragic passing in 2023.

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In the interview with US Weekly, DeWitt spoke fondly of her late co-stars, paying tribute to their lasting impact. Reflecting on Somers, who passed away from breast cancer, DeWitt described her as ”absolutely wonderful.”

She also honored Ritter, who died in 2003 during heart surgery, calling him ”a true gift.”

As we revisit the photos from Three’s Company, we are transported back to a different, happier time—one brimming with laughter, friendship, and unforgettable moments. These images from the set not only celebrate the joy the cast brought to our screens but also highlight the enduring legacy they have left behind.

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RIP John Ritter and Suzanne Somers – gone but never forgotten!

My Future Brother-in-Law Was Always a Pain, but He Went Too Far at Our Wedding and That Was the Last Straw for My Fiancé and Me — Story of the Day

My future brother-in-law was always a problem—rude, arrogant, and always pushing boundaries. But on my wedding day, he crossed a line we could never forgive. He humiliated me in front of everyone, turning my perfect day into a nightmare. That was the last straw, and my fiancé finally had enough.

When Michael and I first started dating, everything felt like a fairy tale. Not the perfect kind, but the kind with unexpected twists.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

Yes, I cried on our first date because I was late. I rushed into the restaurant, breathless and embarrassed.

My eyes welled up as I tried to explain—traffic, spilled coffee, a broken shoe. Michael sat there, silent, clearly unsure of what to do.

We made it through dinner, but he didn’t call me for a week. I assumed I had scared him off.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

Then we ran into each other at a mutual friend’s party. I explained myself, saying I was just an emotional person. To my surprise, he understood and admitted he was the same.

That party was six years ago, and we had been inseparable ever since. I was no longer crying alone over movies where animals died—Michael cried with me. He was my soulmate, and I knew he felt the same.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

Our relationship moved quickly. After just three months, we moved in together, and that’s how we lived for six years.

But somehow, we never got around to planning a wedding. There was always something—either I had a crisis, or Michael did—so we kept postponing it.

Then, eight months ago, Michael proposed. He planned everything so well that I didn’t suspect a thing, making the moment even more special. Not that I needed a proposal to know I wanted to spend my life with him.

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For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

But, like with any couple, there was one problem. His family. More specifically—his brother, Jordan.

Jordan was awful. Rude, arrogant, and full of himself. He thought he was better than everyone, including Michael.

He was only three years older but never missed a chance to remind Michael that he was the older brother.

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For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

I still remember our first meeting. Michael took me to meet his parents, and since Jordan still lived with them—yes, even as an adult—he was there too. So much for being as “amazing” as he thought he was.

At first, everything seemed fine. We had a polite conversation. But when I stepped away to use the bathroom, Jordan was waiting by the door.

“Bored yet?” Jordan asked, his voice low and smug.

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For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

I stiffened. “No, I’m fine,” I replied, keeping my tone polite but firm.

He chuckled. “Come on, let’s go have some fun,” he suggested, stepping closer.

I took a small step back. “No, really, I’m good,” I said cautiously. A strange feeling crept up my spine.

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For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

Jordan tilted his head. “Oh, come on. My brother doesn’t deserve someone like you.

You’d have a much better time with me,” he said. His voice was smooth, but his eyes held something cold.

Before I could react, he grabbed me by the waist. His hand slid lower, pressing against my backside.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“Get off me!” I shouted, shoving him away. My heart pounded as I rushed back to the dining room, my breath shaky.

Michael looked up as I approached. I placed a hand on my stomach, forcing a weak smile. “I don’t feel great. Can we leave?”

Michael stood immediately. “Of course.”

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For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

His parents looked concerned. “It was so nice to meet you, Danica,” they said as we hugged goodbye.

Once we were in the car, Michael glanced at me. “Are you okay? Did you eat something bad?”

I took a deep breath. “Jordan hit on me,” I said.

Michael’s hands tightened on the wheel. “What? That jerk!” His jaw clenched. “I’m going to talk to him.”

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

Michael did talk to Jordan, but Jordan laughed it off. He claimed he was just “testing me” as Michael’s older brother, as if that excused his behavior. I didn’t believe him for a second, but Michael didn’t push back.

Sometimes, I wondered if he was afraid of Jordan. Growing up, Jordan had bullied and teased him constantly.

He always found ways to make Michael feel small, like he was less than him. Their relationship had never been close, but Michael still tried to keep the peace.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

But when Jordan wouldn’t stop, even Michael had to admit it wasn’t a joke anymore.

Then the messages started. Inappropriate texts. Unwanted pictures. Disgusting words. I blocked his number.

When I told Michael I didn’t want Jordan at our wedding, he agreed right away.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

One evening, Michael came home looking drained. He sighed and dropped onto the couch beside me, his shoulders heavy with tension.

“What happened?” I asked, noticing the way his shoulders slumped.

He rubbed his face and let out a long breath. “I talked to my parents. They said if Jordan isn’t invited to the wedding, they won’t come either.” His voice was quiet, heavy with frustration.

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For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

I felt a sharp sting in my chest. “That’s not fair!” I said, my hands tightening into fists.

“I know,” Michael murmured, staring at the floor.

“The way he treats me is reason enough for me not to want him there. He harassed me, sent disgusting messages. Why does that not matter to them?” My voice wavered.

Michael didn’t answer. He just sat there, looking lost.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

I exhaled, the weight of the situation pressing down on me. “Fine. We’ll invite Jordan,” I said, my voice tight.

Michael lifted his head. “Are you sure?”

“Not that we have much of a choice. But your parents need to make sure I don’t have to see him,” I said firmly.

Michael wrapped his arms around me. “You’re the best,” he whispered.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

The wedding day finally arrived. My heart was so full I thought it might burst.

I had dreamed about this moment for years, and now it was finally here. I was marrying the man I loved more than anything, and nothing could ruin my day. Not stress, not nerves, not even Jordan.

Or so I thought.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

I was in the bridal room at the church, standing in front of the mirror as my bridesmaids helped me with the final touches.

The dress was perfect. Everything was perfect. Then, there was a knock at the door.

Smiling, I turned to open it. My breath caught when I saw Jordan standing there.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“What are you—” Before I could finish, he lifted a bucket and, in one swift motion, dumped its contents over me. Cold, sticky liquid drenched my dress, my skin, my hair.

“This is for rejecting me, witch,” he sneered.

I gasped. The smell of paint hit me first. Bright green dripped from my arms. My beautiful white gown was ruined.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“Are you insane?!” I screamed, my voice shaking.

Jordan only laughed, his eyes gleaming with satisfaction, then slammed the door in my face.

My knees buckled, and I collapsed onto the chair, sobbing. My bridesmaids rushed in, their faces horrified.

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For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“Oh my God,” one of them whispered.

“We need water,” another said, grabbing a towel.

They scrubbed at my dress, but the paint had already soaked in. There was no saving it.

Stacy grabbed my shoulders. “Stay here. I’ll find a white dress—anything.” She ran out before I could answer.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

I wiped my face, but more tears came. This wasn’t how it was supposed to be.

I couldn’t stop crying. I had spent months picking out my wedding dress, searching for the perfect one, imagining how I would look walking down the aisle.

Now, I’d have to wear something I had never even seen before. My hair was completely green, streaks of paint clinging to the strands. My bridesmaids worked quickly, pinning it up and covering it with my veil.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“It’ll be okay,” one of them whispered.

“We’ll wash it after the ceremony,” another promised.

The ceremony was already supposed to have started, but Stacy was still missing.

The minutes dragged on, each one heavier than the last. My bridesmaids paced, checking the time, whispering in worried tones.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

Finally, the door burst open. Stacy came running into the room, breathless, her face flushed. In her hands, she held a surprisingly beautiful dress.

“Jordan told everyone you ran away. Michael is freaking out,” she blurted.

I froze. My stomach twisted.

“HE DID WHAT?!” I screamed, my voice echoing off the walls.

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For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

Stacy nodded. “People are whispering. Michael looks like he’s about to pass out.”

I clenched my fists. My chest burned with anger. “That’s it. I’ve had enough.”

I reached up, ripped off my veil, and let my green-streaked hair fall loose. Gasps filled the room. My bridesmaids stared, wide-eyed.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

Without another word, I stormed out. My dress stuck to my skin, the paint dry in some places, still dripping in others.

As I stepped into the church, heads turned. People whispered. My heart pounded, but I pushed forward.

Michael stood at the altar, his hands clenched, his face pale. He looked devastated.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“I didn’t run away!” I shouted. My voice cut through the murmurs.

Michael’s head snapped up. “Danica?” He rushed down the aisle and pulled me into his arms.

Tears stung my eyes, but I forced them back. “Jordan poured green paint on me,” I said, stepping back and gesturing to my ruined dress. “Then he lied and told everyone I left!”

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

Michael’s jaw tightened. He turned, scanning the room. “Jordan! Care to explain?!” His voice was sharp.

Jordan leaned back in his chair, smirking. “It was just a harmless joke,” he said, shrugging.

“That’s not a joke! No one is laughing! We’re all on edge as it is!” Michael snapped.

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For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“Whoa, little brother, calm down,” Jordan said, his tone mocking.

Michael squared his shoulders. “I’m not five anymore. You don’t have control over me.”

Jordan chuckled. “Yet here I am, at your wedding.”

“Get out!” I shouted, my voice shaking with rage.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

Jordan raised an eyebrow. “I was invited. I’m not leaving.”

Michael took a step forward. “Get out!” he repeated, his voice firm. “Or I’ll throw you out myself.”

“Michael, he’s your brother,” his mother interjected, standing abruptly.

Michael turned to her. “If you support what he did, you can leave too,” he said without hesitation.

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For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

His mother’s face paled. “But Michael—” she started.

“Out!” Michael commanded. His voice was final.

A tense silence filled the church. His parents exchanged a glance, then grabbed Jordan and walked out without another word.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

Michael turned back to me, his eyes softening. He pulled me close, resting his forehead against mine. “I was so scared,” he whispered.

I exhaled, feeling the weight of everything lift. “Thank you for standing up for me,” I said, my voice steady.

“From now on, always,” he promised.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

Tell us what you think about this story and share it with your friends. It might inspire them and brighten their day.

If you enjoyed this story, read this one: I thought marriage would bring us closer, but instead, we drifted apart. Silence filled our mornings, distance grew between us. Then, one day, a forgotten phone and a single message shattered my world: “Hi, Daddy.” A name I didn’t recognize. A word that changed everything. I had to know the truth—no matter the cost.

This piece is inspired by stories from the everyday lives of our readers and written by a professional writer. Any resemblance to actual names or locations is purely coincidental. All images are for illustration purposes only. Share your story with us; maybe it will change someone’s life.

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