This hilarious show became a top ten hit, but it was always number one in our hearts! From its premiere in 1977, Three’s Company has maintained its popularity throughout the years. We couldn’t get enough of the 172 episodes, but thankfully they had spin-off shows and even a TV movie. Well, if you’re feeling a little nostalgic, take a look at the important facts you had no clue about in our list! First, we’ll start off with the famous name.
Creative Trouble
Similarly to writing your online dating profile, last minute decisions work best! Indeed, the writers were stumped for a name. During the final moments, they settled on Three’s Company! Wow, I wish my last minute online dating edits proved as successful.
Creative Trouble
Third Time’s The Charm?
Um, we’re sensing a pattern with threes. Usually, shows get a single pilot to see if the network will take on their show. Well, sure enough, Three’s Company got three pilots. Third time really was the charm because from there, they launched the series.
Third Time’s The Charm?
Special Appearance
Our very own John Ritter had his son appear in the opening credits. If you remember, a young boy approached Joyce DeWitt when she feeds the goat. That kid was none other than Ritter’s son, Jason.
Special Appearance
History of Auditions
Ritter wasn’t the only one to try out for Jack. In fact, some big names attempted to snag the role. Billy Crystal, Barry Van Dyke and even Michael Lembeck all tried out for the role. Hm, interesting, but we have to agree that John Ritter fits best. I guess we’re biased though.
History Of Auditions
Not Exactly A Polished Set
The show seemed to have some difficulties with equipment technicalities. Careful inspection shows microphones and even light stands captured in shots. That’s awkward! Though, we have to remember that production was different then, and they couldn’t fix it digitally post-production like nowadays.
Not Exactly A Polished Set
Shining Star
Out of the entire cast, only one actor featured in each episode of the whole series. It was none other than John Ritter playing Jack! Cudos to you Ritter!
Shining Star
Initial Inspiration
Despite popular belief, the show was not completely original. Indeed, the show’s creators took creative license. Yet, the show was based on the British sitcom, Man About the House (1973). Hey, imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, right?
Initial Inspiration
Tensions Between Cast
Towards the end of the series, tensions rose behind the scenes. Producers had offered Ritter the spin-off, Three’s a Crowd. The offer was intended to be kept secret until the original series ended. Unfortunately, Joyce DeWitt heard. Thus, things got complicated between the cast and also producers.
Tensions Between Cast
Diving Right In
Apparently, practice does not always make perfect. The cast did not even rehearse before the initial taping. Believe it or not, they walked right in on the first night without having ever met each other. Clearly, it wasn’t an issue though!
Diving Right In
Last Minute Addition
Time and again, the producers turned down actresses for the part of Chrissy. That is, until Suzanne Somers came along. The last minute audition turned into a role the next day! Obviously, she really nailed it!
Last Minute Addition
Change of Heart
Well, the last minute choice of Somers almost wasn’t. Before Somers, the team almost went with Loni Anderson. Lucky for us, they continued their search for the perfect fit.
Change Of Heart
Intentional Write-Off
Despite being the perfect fit, Somers created so many issues that writers intentionally wrote her character off the show. She had demanded a raise of 120,000 dollars for each episode. That would make her even with Ritter. In addition, she wanted some of the show’s profits. Obviously, the show wasn’t having any of that!
Intentional Write-Off
Tambor’s Many Talents
The multi-talented Jeffrey Tambor had not one, not two, but an impressive three roles on the show. Again, we can’t help but notice the repetitive nature of this number. Anyway, he played Winston Cromwell III, a rich man after Chrissy, then Dr. Tom Miller, the psychiatrist Janet and Jack mistake for a mentally ill patient. His third role was Dr. Phillip Greene, the insane dentist that Terri had broken up with and rightfully so!
Tambor’s Many Talents
Until The Death
Indeed, they lasted until the end. While others came and went, only these two lasted throughout the series. Ritter and DeWitt may have made it until the end, but it wasn’t all rainbows and sunshine. As mentioned, DeWitt felt angry she was not included in the spin-off.
Until The Death
Opening Credits Revealed
Shooting the beginning seasons’ opening at Venice beach was decided very last minute. In fact, a local shop owner took one hundred dollars in exchange for the show to film from his roof. Thus, from the roof they filmed ‘Jack Tripper’ on his bike. Actually, that bike was one of the producers, and the girl who he can’t stop staring at until his fall was Somers in a wig.
Opening Credits Revealed
The Final Product
The team intended for the main cast to sing the theme song. Things turned out a bit differently than hoped. Surprisingly, the original theme song was written without lyrics. It wasn’t until several tries later that we got the final product we know and love! Sounds a bit like online dating. If at first you don’t succeed, try try again, right?
The Final Product
Not Quite Right
Unfortunately, producers had to drop Jenilee Harrison when the show declined in popularity. We assure you all was well between her and the cast. Despite this, the show had to move on and search for a third roommate.
Not Quite Right
Nervous Sweats
Can you believe that the star we know today, Heather Locklear actually had an embarrassing audition? Apparently, when auditioning to replace Somers, she kept sweating profusely. She sweat so much that she stuffed tissues under her arms. Incidentally, while acting out a funny scene, no one laughed until she left the room. Once outside, she saw the tissues had fallen and realized they must have thought she stuffed her bra. Aw, we all have our awkward moments, whether you’re messing up a huge audition, presentation or even just awkward times on the dating scene. Locklear turned out okay in the end. It gives us hope!
Nervous Sweats
The Origins of Stanley Roper
The lovable landlord actually came from a real life local in Philadelphia. Normal Fell was fascinated with this guy who could not seem to get things right but still had such high self-esteem. From the innocent Philly native, came our lovable, Stanley Roper.
The Origins Of Stanley Roper
The Fallout
Things were not so pleasant by the end of the series. Many friendships had been destroyed. Between Somers leaving and DeWitt’s animosity, the main three stars did not exactly communicate well for about thirty years. Eventually, Somers repaired her relationship with Joyce via her web show. Sadly, Ritter passed away at only 54 years old. Sommers claims they patched things up before his untimely death.
The Fallout
Failed Spin-Off
Both Audra Lindley and Norman Fell got an incredible offer from ABC. The network told the two that they could have their own spin-off, but if it failed, they could return. Unfortunately, the network did not keep this promise. The Ropers only stayed on air for a season before they got stuck with a terrible time slot and then canceled. Instead of rehiring the two, ABC chose Don Knotts. Tough call. Turned out, the ratings dropped twenty percent after Knott began.
Failed Spin Off
Tough Times
Okay stay with us now. Nurse Terri replaced Cindy, who was Chrissy’s replacement. Anway, Priscilla Barnes played Terri Alden during the last three seasons. Barnes said to CNN in 2002, “Our bosses were very, very controlling. If my hair was too blond, I’d get called up in the office.” On top of that, she claimed it was the single worst time of her existence. Can you say drama?
Tough Times
Behind the Scenes Exclusive
Luckily for fans, the TV movie, Behind the Camera: The Unauthorized Story of Three’s Company came out in 2003. It covered everything including behind the scenes drama like Somers leaving. Ironically, at the time this was made, Joyce and Suzanne Somers were not even talking to each other. Despite the tension, all three stars worked on the project.
Behind The Scenes Exclusive
Accidental Star
The real reason Ritter’s son made that adorable appearance in the opening was because of a mistake. In reality, John strayed from his mother during the shoot. His wandering onto the set while they filmed made DeWitt laugh, so they decided to keep it. It surely wasn’t the last of his acting career! He went on to star in Parenthood, among other shows.
Accidental Star
Released to DVD
Continuously, from 1977 until 1983, the show maintained a spot on the top ten list. In fact, the show maintained its popularity in not just syndication but multiple DVD releases.
Released To DVD
Again with the Threes!
Seriously, we have another fact involving threes. Throughout the series, there were three addresses used for the famous apartment. What are the chances?
Again With The Threes!
Toxic Environment
Considering her comments to CNN, we are not surprised that Priscilla Barnes called the atmosphere on set unhealthy. Clearly, it felt toxic enough to her that she cited it as the unhappiest moment of her acting career.
Toxic Environment
Unbelievable Chemistry
Turns out, the character Larry Dallas, portrayed by Richard Kline, was suppose to be a guest for only one episode. However, after observing the chemistry between Ritter and Kline, producers knew they had to act fast! Thus, they offered him a recurring role on the show.
Unbelievable Chemistry
Subtle Reference
Back in the second episode, there’s a small nod towards Ritter’s role on The Waltons. Did you catch when Jack says, “Goodnight John boy,” at the end? Yeah, that was done purposely to recall his time as Reverend Fordwick.
Sublte Reference
Army background
Back stories are always crucial in shaping a character. In fact, Jack Tripper supposedly served in the Navy. Perhaps, this is less remarkable than the fact that he boxed while there. It’s interesting to know that the sometimes cowardly Jack once boxed in the navy. Huh, go figure!
Army Background
Humble Beginnings
Thankfully, Janet and Chrissy took in the lovable Jack. Guess where he lived beforehand. Sadly, it was the Y.M.C.A. He lucked out!
Humble Beginnings
Words Matter
Number of episodes and seasons is one thing, but words do matter. Terri spent more time on Three’s Company than Cindy. However, the character Cindy had more lines than Terri.
Words Matter
Sharing Clothes
Hey, I’m not hating on outfit repeaters, but it’s worth mentioning. In season five Larry wore a black sailboat shirt. Then late in season seven, we see Jack wearing the same exact shirt! My closet is yours, said the cast mates.
Sharing Clothes
Richard Kline as Larry
So we all knew him as Larry Dallas, but turns out that was a nickname. Dallas stood for Dallipoulos! Now, that’s a mouthful.
Richard Kline As Larry
Pie Overload
Who could forget the season three classic, “The Bake-Off.” Turn out, this episode went through more than just pies. William Pierson, aka Dean, used a total of three suits! On that note, I think I’m craving some pie now.
Pie Overload
Let’s Do Some Calculations
Let’s do some math. Apparently, the apartment rent for the two bedroom was priced at three hundred dollars each month. This Santa Monica apartment would actually be much higher today, according to the American Institute for Economic Research. Three hundred in 1977, try $999.05 in today’s economy! Now, that sounds more realistic.
Let’s Do Some Calculations
Some Things Never Change
We’ve told you about all the characters to come and go. Yet, there was one thing kept consistent. Yes, the production team reused audience shots during the taping of new episodes.
Some Things Never Change
A Little Unhinged
It wasn’t just characters or apartments changing. Did anyone notice how the normal curve of the apartment door became square during the TV movie? To be clear, the television and film differed on many things and yes, the door was one of them.
A Little Unhinged
Another Roomie
Many fans probably forgot this fact. Janet and Chrissy had a third roomie before Jack. Remember Eleanor? She even appeared in an episode during the third season.
Another Roomie
In Memory
Back in 2003, the cast and fans alike suffered the tragic loss of John Ritter. A mere four days after his untimely death, Nick at Nite aired a Three’s Company marathon to honor the star. RIP Jack. We miss you!
In Memory
Best Landlord
From some random guy in Philly into Norman Fell’s beloved landlord, Stanley Roper won the hearts of fans and critics alike. In fact, Fell won a Golden Globe in 1979 for his portrayal of Roper.
Best Landlord
Wig Built Personality
Now, Helen Roper’s wig was not purely aesthetic. Apparently the wild wig helped emphasize the personality of the sexually frustrated and hilarious Helen. The wig helped her keep the character’s outrageous hair-do!
Wig Built Personality
Spin-Off Included
Only two of the cast made it onto the two spin-offs. The two characters, Jack Tripper and Larry both appeared on the spin-offs in addition to the original. Congrats you two!
Spin-Off Included
Guest Cop
Another guest worth mentioning…John Larroquette appeared as a cop on the show. His character caught Jack breaking into the apartment while the girls slept. Actually, John improvised a bit to give himself a bigger guest role. He expanded on his methods in an interview with AV TV club, “So I had to figure out a way to get my hat off. And this is all completely selfish and premeditated. So inside my hat, I’ve written the Miranda rights. So I take my hat off and tell him, ‘You have the right to remain silent.’ So my hat is off for the remainder of the scene, which allows you to see my face and my confidence, as it were.”
Guest Cop
Foreshadowing
If you paid close attention, you may have noticed the clip with DeWitt filming a Leggs commercial early on in the movie. In reality, she did not endorse Leggs until later in her career.
Foreshadowing
Fiance, Shmance!
After casting a fiance for Jack, the two never got married! This ended up being a good thing. Thus, the live-in girlfriend provided a story line for the spin-off.
Fiance, Shmance!
From Months to Minutes
Things were not always accurate in the film, as proven with the Leggs commercial. Initially, when producers offered Lindley and Fell the spin-off, Fell deliberated over it for around six months before agreeing. Yet, in the film, you see him sign onto it within minutes.
From Months To Minutes
Fashion Taste
Apparently Don Knotts did not see his own style as aligning with his characters. He looked at Mr. Furley’s fashion sense as bizarre. Yet, when he would come to events to talk about his experience as a cast member, he seemed to wear clothing very similar to Ralph Furley! Interesting. Very interesting.
Fashion Taste
Whoops
Perhaps, this one is not as bad as a mic in a shot. Though, it isn’t something to be proud of that the production missed this slip up! Once the programming chief, Fred Silverman left the network, you see a different name on his door. Okay so far, that’s natural. Then, in the following scene Fred Silverman mysteriously appears on the door again. Whoops. It’s okay, we all make mistakes. We still love the show!
Whoops
Ouch!
In “A Night Not to Remember” from season seven, the lines between acting and real life blurred. When you see Ritter bump himself on the underside of the table, this actually hurt him during the filming. He claimed to be knocked out, in addition to continuing the shoot with a large welt. Ow, that’s serious commitment to the role.
Ouch!