John Lithgow Is Rediscovering “3rd Rock from the Sun” 30 Years Later: ‘I Think I’m Great!’

**John Lithgow Reflects on Classic Sitcom ‘3rd Rock From the Sun’**

John Lithgow, the celebrated actor known for his diverse roles across film, television, and theatre, has recently expressed a renewed appreciation for the classic 90s sitcom *3rd Rock From the Sun*. In a candid interview, he revisited the series that became a defining part of late-1990s television and played an integral role in his career.

*3rd Rock From the Sun* aired for six memorable seasons from 1996 to 2001, telling the whimsical tale of a group of aliens masquerading as a human family in suburban Ohio. Lithgow portrayed the eccentric character of High Commander Dick Solomon, leading a notable ensemble that included Kristen Johnston, French Stewart, and a young Joseph Gordon-Levitt.

During an appearance on the third hour of *Today*, Lithgow discussed his recent journey of revisiting the sitcom while promoting his role in the Broadway production of *Giant*. At 80 years of age, he conveyed how watching the show again has brought back delightful memories and allowed him to savour his performance anew. “It was six years of unstoppable laughter. It was ecstatic fun. Just wonderful, wonderful,” he recalled fondly.

Lithgow noted that he occasionally revisits episodes of *3rd Rock From the Sun* and finds the experience exhilarating, particularly due to his own forgetfulness over the years. “I’ve forgotten practically everything. And as a result, it’s all brand new. It’s hilarious. I think I’m great!” he exclaimed, highlighting the joy he experiences when rediscovering the show’s unique humour.

The series, renowned for its quirky and offbeat comedic style, resonated with audiences and garnered critical acclaim during its run, including several prestigious awards. Lithgow himself was honoured with multiple Primetime Emmy Awards, a testament to his compelling portrayal of the alien commander struggling to understand human life.

Kristen Johnston, Lithgow’s former co-star, recently spoke about the impact he had on her both during and after the show. In a conversation with *PEOPLE*, she expressed deep gratitude towards Lithgow for being a guiding example on set. “I’m very grateful to John Lithgow for teaching me, by example, how to be on a set and how to be a graceful, cool person that everyone wants to work with,” Johnston stated, reflecting on the character dynamics they shared.

Johnston further praised Lithgow’s professionalism, noting his punctuality and dedication to his craft, which significantly influenced her own approach to acting. “He really taught me how to be someone you’d want to work with and hire a couple of times,” she added, emphasising the long-lasting lessons learned from their collaboration.

As *3rd Rock From the Sun* continues to find relevance in modern culture, Lithgow’s retrospective comments serve as a reminder of the show’s enduring charm and the bonds forged among the cast members. The series captured the complexities of human behaviour through the eyes of aliens, merging comedy with insightful commentary on human nature.

Even after decades, Lithgow and Johnston’s reflections demonstrate the timeless quality of *3rd Rock From the Sun*. The warm nostalgia surrounding the show not only highlights its significance in the television landscape but also illustrates the meaningful relationships that developed among its cast, supporting a legacy of camaraderie that extends beyond the screen.

As fans continue to revisit the iconic series, Lithgow’s heartfelt observations remind us of the joys of creativity and collaboration in the world of entertainment. In a rapidly changing media landscape, *3rd Rock From the Sun* remains a beloved staple, still capable of evoking laughter and sparking fond memories for viewers old and new alike.