Joyce DeWitt, renowned for her role as Janet Wood in the iconic sitcom “Three’s Company,” reminisced fondly about her late co-star John Ritter during a recent interview. Marking the 50th anniversary of the show, DeWitt spoke to PEOPLE in New York City on 2 November, saying that her connection with Ritter was almost instinctual from the moment they met.
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Reflecting on their initial encounter, DeWitt described a unique chemistry that allowed them to work together effortlessly. “All I know is the very first day we met, our bodies communicated kinesthetically,” she shared. It was this immediate understanding that established a solid foundation of trust between the two actors, enabling them to tackle their comedic roles with a sense of abandon that resonated with audiences.
The beloved sitcom, which premiered in 1977, centred around three roommates—Janet, Jack Tripper (played by Ritter), and Chrissy Snow (the late Suzanne Somers)—navigating life in Santa Monica, California. DeWitt reflected on how their physical comedy was enhanced by the rapport they shared on set, stating, “We were able to work physically together with wild abandon because we had such absolute trust, one in the other.”
From their first day of filming, DeWitt felt a sense of ease with Ritter. “I really like this guy,” she remembered thinking, recalling how she quickly became acquainted with his family soon after their initial meeting. It was a promising start that paved the way for a successful collaboration over the sitcom’s eight-season run.
In the interview, DeWitt highlighted Ritter’s natural comedic talent, crediting him as a “comedic genius” who exuded confidence in his craft. “I don’t think I could say that I ever saw John doubt himself when it came to comedy,” she noted. Rather than overthinking his performance, Ritter had an intrinsic understanding of humour that flowed freely.
DeWitt explained that Ritter’s commitment to making others laugh was deeply rooted in his personality. He embodied the essence of his character, Jack Tripper, who was always eager to ensure that everyone around him enjoyed themselves. “The natural flow of John Ritter… was the part of himself that wants to make sure everybody’s included and everybody’s having a good time,” DeWitt elaborated.
This ease extended to his approach to performance; Ritter was unflinching in the face of potential embarrassment. “I don’t think I ever saw John in an insecure moment about comedy because he wasn’t thinking about it in his head,” DeWitt remarked. “He was just letting himself fly,” she added, demonstrating his fearless approach to humour, regardless of how ridiculous he might have appeared.
DeWitt also recalled a phrase Ritter would often say that emphasised his philosophy towards the show. “He used to always say, ‘We are not trying to make people laugh with Three’s Company. We’re trying to make somebody laugh so hard they fall off their couch laughing,’” she remembered. This ambitious goal reflected their shared commitment to pushing the boundaries of comedic performance.
As they celebrated half a century since the show’s debut, DeWitt looked back on her time with Ritter with both nostalgia and gratitude. The impact he had on her life and the production was significant, and she expressed hope that they succeeded in their mission of spreading laughter. “So maybe we did that. We don’t know if we accomplished the goal or not, but we tried,” she concluded.
As fans continue to remember John Ritter and his comedic legacy, DeWitt’s heartfelt reflections serve as a testament to the lasting bond they created during their time on “Three’s Company.” The fond memories and the laughter that defined their partnership will forever resonate with audiences who cherished the show.
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