Joyce DeWitt Says Lucille Ball ‘Became a Devotee’ of “Three’s Company” Because She Loved John Ritter (Exclusive)

**Lucille Ball’s Fondness for John Ritter and ‘Three’s Company’ Remembered**

John Ritter, renowned for his role as Jack Tripper in the beloved sitcom ‘Three’s Company’, had a significant admirer in the iconic Lucille Ball. Joyce DeWitt, who played Ritter’s co-star Janet Wood, recently shared insights into Ball’s affection for the show and the cast during an event celebrating the legacy of Ritter.

The event took place on Saturday, September 12, at the Sunset Room in Hollywood, coinciding with the 20th anniversary of Ritter’s untimely death from an aortic dissection at the age of 54. In a conversation with PEOPLE, DeWitt reflected on the impact of Ball’s admiration and the connections they shared as comedic performers of their respective eras.

Lucille Ball, whose career was catapulted to fame with ‘I Love Lucy’, was known for her fondness for ‘Three’s Company’. In 1982, she participated in a special dedicated to the sitcom, showcasing the show’s funniest moments from its initial six seasons. DeWitt expressed how poignant it was for her to know that Ball appreciated their work, attributing her admiration primarily to Ritter’s exceptional talent in physical comedy.

DeWitt noted, “It’s fair to say her primary love was Jonathan,” underscoring the connection between Ball and Ritter’s comedic styles. While Ball admired the entire ‘Three’s Company’ cast for their endeavours, it was Ritter’s physical performances that captured her attention. DeWitt described Ball’s appreciation for the show’s unique style of humour, saying it was “flattering” and indicative of Ball’s understanding of the effort involved in creating laughter through physical comedy.

The camaraderie shared between DeWitt and Ritter was evident, as she recounted how their physical chemistry contributed to the joy of performing together. “For John and I, the day that we met, our bodies were talking to each other,” she reminisced. The duo instinctively understood each other’s movements, creating a seamless dynamic that enhanced their performances.

In the aforementioned TV special, Ball highlighted Ritter’s talent for physical comedy while introducing his most memorable moments, which included his hilariously clumsy antics. She remarked, “Looks easy, doesn’t it? But believe me, it’s not. It takes a lot of talent, a lot of agility, and a lot of band-aids,” acknowledging both the skill involved and the physical risks taken for the sake of humour.

Ritter’s presence in the industry extended beyond ‘Three’s Company’. He made a guest appearance on Ball’s sitcom, ‘Life with Lucy’, in 1986. This crossover showcased his enduring appeal and the respect he garnered from one of the comedy greats. The episode saw him play himself, further solidifying the bond between the two comedy legends.

The sitcom ‘Three’s Company’ experienced significant success from its launch in 1977 until its conclusion in 1984. It saw Ritter, DeWitt, and Suzanne Somers as housemates navigating the comedic confusion arising from their unique living arrangements. The series not only established Ritter’s career but also earned him an Emmy and several nominations for his memorable portrayal of the lovably inept Jack Tripper.

Decades later, DeWitt remains committed to preserving Ritter’s legacy through the John Ritter Foundation for Aortic Health, which aims to raise awareness about aortic dissections. During her interview, she expressed joy and pride in supporting the foundation’s mission to provide critical information and attention related to this serious health issue.

The bond between Lucille Ball and John Ritter continues to resonate with fans and comedians alike, serving as a reminder of the artistry involved in making people laugh. As DeWitt reflects on the past, she celebrates the trailblazers of comedy, honouring their contributions to the entertainment industry while ensuring that important health messages are not forgotten.

Their collaboration and mutual admiration exemplify the rich history of television comedy, illustrating how laughter can forge connections across generations. The reverberations of their work continue to inspire new audiences today, ensuring that both Ball and Ritter remain cherished figures in the annals of television history.