Forgotten Three’s Company Episode Sparks Nostalgia and Debate
The timeless sitcom Three’s Company remains a fan favorite, thanks to its brilliant cast chemistry and unforgettable humor.
Though we’ve lost two of its iconic stars, John Ritter and Suzanne Somers, their performances continue to captivate audiences through reruns and viral clips.
Recently, a Season 5 episode titled “A Crowded Romance” has resurfaced, stirring nostalgia and reigniting discussions among fans.
The episode, originally aired in 1980, showcases the classic Three’s Company formula of misunderstandings and comedic chaos.
Larry (Richard Kline) falls for a woman he believes is “the one,” but hilarity ensues when Jack (John Ritter) also starts dating her unknowingly.
What makes this episode notable is Suzanne Somers’ absence, which foreshadowed her eventual exit due to a high-profile contract dispute.
Somers had asked for pay parity with Ritter, demanding $150,000 per episode compared to her then $30,000 salary.
Her push for equal pay was ahead of its time but led to her being written off the show. In her words, “I’ve been playing one of the best dumb blondes ever, but I never got credit.”
The episode also includes a now-viral clip where Jack playfully nudges Janet (Joyce DeWitt), eliciting mixed reactions.
Some fans view it as harmless humor reflective of its era, while others criticize it as outdated and inappropriate by today’s standards.
Comments on platforms like TikTok highlight this divide, with some expressing nostalgia for the lighthearted humor and others calling out problematic undertones in 70s and 80s sitcoms.
Interestingly, the clip has sparked another debate—Jack and Janet’s identical hairstyles.
Fans have long discussed Joyce DeWitt’s evolving hairdos, with her sleek mid-season style often hailed as her best look.
Despite changing cultural norms, Three’s Company continues to be celebrated for its comedic genius, reminding us why it remains a cherished part of television history.
