In a heartfelt reflection on her late husband, actress Amy Yasbeck has revealed her ongoing connection with John Ritter, who passed away in 2003. Yasbeck, 64, shared her sentiments at the recent 50th Anniversary celebration of the beloved sitcom *Three’s Company*, held on November 2 in New York City. The event was organised in partnership with the John Ritter Foundation for Aortic Health, which Yasbeck established shortly after Ritter’s untimely death.
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Ritter, known for his charming roles, collapsed on the set of *8 Simple Rules… for Dating My Teenage Daughter* on September 11, 2003. His sudden passing was attributed to an aortic dissection, a critical condition that occurs when there is a tear in the inner lining of the aorta. Yasbeck has made it her mission to raise awareness of this rare but dangerous illness in the years since, emphasising its genetic nature and the potential risks for families.
During her conversation with *People* magazine at the anniversary event, Yasbeck candidly expressed that she still feels a daily connection with Ritter. “I still talk to John. I check in all the time. I talk to him every day,” she stated, adding with a laugh, “But I didn’t say that he talked back. I don’t want people to get the wrong idea.”
Yasbeck further explained that her ongoing dialogues with Ritter are rooted in the emotional bonds that remain after a loved one’s passing. “When somebody passes away — my dad passed away when I was 19 — and when they’re in your heart, you check in with them. You knock on that door when you need,” she said, illustrating the personal nature of her reflections.
Recalling moments shared with her husband, Yasbeck fondly highlighted a phrase that Ritter frequently used during their time together: “Can I get a witness?” She described how, in moments of solitude or nostalgia, the desire for validation from loved ones who have died can evoke bittersweet memories. “Sometimes when you’re alone, and something crazy happens, or a memory comes up, you want a witness. So that person that you’ve lost stands beside you,” she remarked.
The actress, who shares a son, Noah, 27, with Ritter, noted that her involvement with the foundation has allowed her to continue making a positive impact on the lives of others. “I guarantee you, there are people here who don’t even realise they’re at risk of aortic dissection or that maybe somebody in their family had died from it because it’s highly genetic,” Yasbeck elaborated. She shared her joy in connecting with individuals who approach her at events, often seeking information about their own health risks.
The John Ritter Foundation aims to not only promote awareness about aortic health but also to provide support to those affected by related conditions. Yasbeck’s commitment is evident in her belief that any person who learns about their risks could potentially save their entire family from the heartache she experienced following Ritter’s death.
John Ritter leaves behind a rich legacy through his talented children from his first marriage to Nancy Morgan as well, including sons Jason, 46, and Tyler, 41, along with daughter Carly, 44. Despite the pain of loss, Yasbeck continues to honour his memory, integrating his life and their shared love into her daily existence.
Yasbeck’s reflections and the work of the John Ritter Foundation serve as a poignant reminder of the impact one’s legacy can have on their survivor’s lives. Through ongoing advocacy and heartfelt memories, she embodies the strength of love and the importance of raising awareness for critical health issues. Their enduring connection transcends time and space, a testament to a marriage that remains vibrant in the hearts of those left behind.