Suzanne Somers is a multi-talented actress, singer, author, and entrepreneur whose career spans more than five decades. Best known for her portrayal of the bubbly, blonde Chrissy Snow on the classic sitcom Three’s Company, Somers rose to fame as one of the most recognizable faces on television in the late 1970s. However, her career is far more multifaceted than many realize. Somers successfully reinvented herself after her departure from the show, building an empire as a health and wellness advocate, best-selling author, and businesswoman. Her journey from Hollywood stardom to entrepreneurial success showcases her versatility and resilience.
This article delves into Suzanne Somers’ life and career, from her breakout role on Three’s Company to her influential work in health and wellness, and her lasting impact on both television and popular culture.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Suzanne Somers was born Suzanne Marie Mahoney on October 16, 1946, in San Bruno, California, to a working-class family. She was the third of four children born to Frank Mahoney, a laborer and gardener, and Marion Mahoney, a medical secretary. Somers had a difficult childhood, shaped by her father’s alcoholism and the financial struggles her family faced. Despite the challenges, she found solace in creative pursuits and began participating in school plays at an early age.
After graduating from Capuchino High School, Somers briefly attended Lone Mountain College in San Francisco before dropping out to marry Bruce Somers at age 19. The couple had a son, Bruce Jr., but the marriage was short-lived, ending in divorce just three years later. As a single mother, Somers worked various jobs to support herself and her son, including modeling and acting gigs in commercials.
Somers’ big break came in 1973 when she landed a small but memorable role in the film American Graffiti, directed by George Lucas. In the film, she played the mysterious blonde girl in the white Thunderbird, capturing the attention of Richard Dreyfuss’s character. Though her role was brief and without dialogue, it gave her visibility in Hollywood, leading to more acting opportunities.
Breakout Role on Three’s Company
In 1977, Suzanne Somers achieved stardom when she was cast as Chrissy Snow on the hit ABC sitcom Three’s Company. The show, based on the British series Man About the House, followed the comedic antics of three roommates—Chrissy, Janet Wood (played by Joyce DeWitt), and Jack Tripper (played by John Ritter)—living together in a Santa Monica apartment. The premise revolved around Jack pretending to be gay to keep their landlord from objecting to the co-ed living arrangement.
Somers’ portrayal of Chrissy Snow made her an instant fan favorite. Chrissy was the quintessential “dumb blonde” character, known for her wide-eyed innocence, quirky behavior, and misinterpretation of situations. However, Somers added depth and charm to the role, making Chrissy not only a source of comedic relief but also a lovable and endearing character. Her physical comedy and impeccable timing, along with her chemistry with Ritter and DeWitt, were key factors in the show’s success.
Three’s Company quickly became one of the highest-rated shows on television, and Somers became a household name. Her character, Chrissy, with her signature pigtails and high-pitched giggle, became an iconic figure of 1970s pop culture. Somers’ celebrity status soared, and she became one of the most recognizable faces on television during the show’s run.
However, despite the success of Three’s Company, behind-the-scenes tensions would eventually lead to Somers’ departure from the series. In 1980, after four seasons on the show, Somers asked for a significant salary increase, seeking parity with her male co-star, John Ritter. At the time, Ritter was earning five times more than Somers, despite her popularity and contributions to the show’s success. ABC refused her request, and after a very public dispute, Somers was written off the show. Her departure made headlines, and it became one of the most infamous contract disputes in television history.
While Somers’ exit from Three’s Company was a low point in her career, it also marked the beginning of a new chapter for her as she worked to reinvent herself.
Reinvention as Entrepreneur and Health Advocate
After leaving Three’s Company, Suzanne Somers faced challenges in finding roles in television and film due to her high-profile departure. However, she refused to let the setback define her career and instead focused on building her brand. Somers shifted her attention toward health, fitness, and entrepreneurship—an area in which she would find significant success.
In 1990, Somers became a spokesperson for the ThighMaster, a piece of exercise equipment that became a massive hit and cultural phenomenon. The ThighMaster commercials, featuring Somers demonstrating the product, became iconic, and the device sold millions of units worldwide. The success of the ThighMaster not only revitalized Somers’ career but also marked the beginning of her foray into the health and fitness industry.
Somers expanded her brand by authoring a series of best-selling books on health, wellness, and aging. Her first book, Keeping Secrets, a memoir about her life and struggles, became a New York Times bestseller. She followed up with a series of books on weight loss, hormone therapy, and alternative medicine, including Suzanne Somers’ Eat Great, Lose Weight and The Sexy Years. These books positioned Somers as a trusted voice in the health and wellness community, and she became a leading advocate for bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT), a controversial treatment for aging and menopause.
Somers’ advocacy for alternative health approaches sparked debate, as some medical professionals questioned the efficacy and safety of the treatments she promoted. Nonetheless, her dedication to health and wellness resonated with many, particularly women seeking alternative methods for managing aging and hormone-related issues. Somers has consistently promoted a holistic approach to health, emphasizing the importance of diet, exercise, and natural supplements.
In addition to her books and fitness products, Somers has built a successful line of skincare products, supplements, and home-cleaning products, further cementing her status as a savvy entrepreneur. Her ability to reinvent herself as a health and wellness advocate allowed her to build a lasting career outside of traditional entertainment.
Later Career and Legacy
Despite her focus on health and entrepreneurship, Suzanne Somers never fully left the entertainment industry. She returned to television in the 1990s with the sitcom Step by Step, in which she starred opposite Patrick Duffy. The show, which aired on ABC and later on CBS, followed the lives of a blended family and became a popular family sitcom during its seven-season run from 1991 to 1998. Somers’ role as Carol Foster Lambert, a compassionate and loving mother, showcased her versatility as an actress and proved that she could successfully transition from her Three’s Companypersona.
Throughout her career, Somers has continued to make guest appearances on various television shows, including reality TV programs like Dancing with the Stars, where she competed in 2015. Her enduring popularity and ability to connect with audiences have made her a beloved figure in the entertainment world.
In 2012, Somers reconciled with her Three’s Company co-star Joyce DeWitt during an emotional reunion on DeWitt’s talk show. The two had not spoken for over 30 years due to the fallout from Somers’ salary dispute and departure from the show. Their reconciliation was a touching moment for fans of Three’s Company, who had long hoped to see the actresses reconnect.
Suzanne Somers’ legacy extends far beyond her role as Chrissy Snow. She is a true example of resilience, having successfully reinvented herself multiple times throughout her career. From her beginnings as a television star to her work as a health and wellness advocate, Somers has demonstrated a remarkable ability to adapt and thrive in an ever-changing industry.
Her impact on popular culture, especially through Three’s Company, remains significant. Chrissy Snow became a cultural icon, representing the quintessential blonde bombshell while also challenging gender norms through her comedic and confident portrayal. Beyond that, her work in promoting health and wellness has influenced countless individuals, particularly women, in seeking alternative paths to well-being.
Suzanne Somers continues to be a role model for reinvention, showing that setbacks can lead to new opportunities for growth and success. Her entrepreneurial spirit, combined with her passion for health, has cemented her place as one of the most enduring and influential figures in the entertainment industry.