**Joyce DeWitt Remembers John Ritter During ‘Three’s Company’ 50th Anniversary Celebration**
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In a heartfelt celebration of the classic sitcom ‘Three’s Company,’ Joyce DeWitt reminisced about her late co-star John Ritter, recalling their instant chemistry and enduring friendship. The event, marking the 50th anniversary of the show, took place on 2nd November in New York City, bringing together fans and cast members to honour a programme that has left an indelible mark on television history.
DeWitt, who portrayed Janet Wood alongside Ritter’s Jack Tripper and Suzanne Somers’ Chrissy Snow, reflected on their time together on the series which aired from 1977 to 1984. In her conversation with PEOPLE, she spoke fondly of Ritter’s exuberance and innate comedic talent, noting that he never appeared to question his abilities.
“John never doubted himself when it came to comedy,” DeWitt stated. “It was not something he approached with intellectual contemplation; rather, it flowed naturally from him.” She explained that this genuine nature was integral in crafting Jack Tripper, a character that exuded warmth and inclusivity. DeWitt emphasised, “He wanted everyone to be part of the fun, and that essence translated beautifully into his performance.”
The sitcom showcased the lives of three roommates navigating the complexities of friendship, romance, and miscommunication in Santa Monica, California. DeWitt, Ritter, and Somers created a dynamic trio that resonated with audiences, leading to the show’s phenomenal success over eight seasons.
Reflecting on her long-standing partnership with Ritter, DeWitt expressed admiration for his boldness in physical comedy. “He was fearless,” she recounted. “He didn’t concern himself with how foolish he might seem, as long as there was a chance to elicit genuine laughter. He often said, ‘We are not trying to make people laugh with Three’s Company. We’re trying to get someone to laugh so hard they fall off their couch.’ Perhaps we achieved that to some extent, but it was always the aim.”
The connection between DeWitt and Ritter was evident early on in their working relationship. Describing their first meeting, DeWitt noted an immediate sense of synergy. “Our bodies communicated kinesthetically,” she recalled, highlighting the innate trust they developed. “This trust allowed us to engage in physical comedy with reckless abandon. We felt secure in each other’s presence, able to execute even the wildest antics knowing the other would support us through it.”
Her admiration for Ritter extended beyond the set. DeWitt shared that within days of meeting him, she was introduced to members of his family, solidifying her sense that they would share a close working relationship. “It was clear from the beginning that he was a wonderful person,” she recalled. “That initial impression made the journey with him feel all the more special.”
As DeWitt and her colleagues commemorated the enduring legacy of ‘Three’s Company,’ she took a moment to acknowledge the profound influence Ritter had on the show and on her personally. Even after his untimely passing in 2003 at the age of 54 due to an aortic dissection, his spirit continues to resonate through the characters he played and the laughter he inspired.
The celebration held in New York City served not only as a platform to relive the show’s most memorable moments but also to reflect on the hidden messages of friendship, collaboration, and joy that ‘Three’s Company’ imparted to its viewers. With DeWitt leading the charge, the actors and fans alike remembered the laughter that filled their homes and the friendships that blossomed on and off-screen.
As DeWitt reminds us, comedy is often about connection and joy. In honouring John Ritter, she highlighted not just his talent but also the love for laughter that they both cherished. Through joyful memories and shared stories, the spirit of ‘Three’s Company’ continues to bring people together, ensuring that its legacy will live on for future generations.
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