Did Priscilla Barnes and Joyce DeWitt get along?

The world of classic television often conceals its fair share of behind-the-scenes complexities, rivalries, and human drama. The ’70s sitcom “Three’s Company,” which once epitomized the era’s sexual revolution, wasn’t immune to this, as revealed in a thought-provoking exploration of the show’s history and the relationships among its cast.

The casting for the various characters on “Three’s Company” is lauded for its accuracy, particularly in the cases of John Ritter, who portrayed Jack Tripper, and Joyce DeWitt, who brought Janet Wood to life. Suzanne Somers, played brilliantly by an actress who conveys her internal conflict, emerges as a central figure in the tumultuous events that unfolded behind the scenes.

The film dives into the compelling dynamics between the network executives, show producers, and Somers’ husband, Alan Hamel, who are portrayed with exceptional authenticity. Even the supporting cast, which includes the likes of the Ropers, Mr. Furley, and Cyndi Snow, is not omitted. Notably, Priscilla Barnes, who portrayed Terri, occupies a background role with no lines, while Larry is conspicuously absent.

Of great interest to fans of the show is how the remainder of the cast and crew were affected by the contractual battles that turned personal between Somers and the producers. An intriguing aspect of the film is that Joyce DeWitt, who originally played Janet Wood, serves as a producer and narrator, providing a unique perspective on the events. It raises the question of potential bias in portraying DeWitt as a wronged party, given her dual role in the film.

The facts themselves reveal a complex story where it’s hard to point fingers at any one party. The film may appear to cast Suzanne Somers in a negative light, but it also evokes sympathy for her as she grapples with the repercussions of her actions. Her husband, Alan Hamel, plays a pivotal role in steering her decisions, despite his own limited success as an actor, which he humorously admits in one of the film’s lighter moments.

John Ritter, who is depicted as a genuinely nice guy but one who occasionally gives in too readily to the producers, stands at the crossroads between maintaining harmony among the cast and securing his own spinoff.

In the end, the film lays bare the erosion of the charm and magic the series possessed in its early days. The root cause? A lack of appreciation for the actors by the producers, the avarice of Suzanne Somers and her management, and the constant tinkering aimed at undermining her. The aftermath leaves everyone seemingly embittered by the experience, with Ritter and Somers notably distancing themselves from the project.

Joyce DeWitt, who plays a pivotal role in narrating the story, is a testament to the complex dynamics that fueled and ultimately unraveled “Three’s Company.” Her narration, however, hints at the lingering tensions beneath the surface.

In sum, this TV movie provides a rare and insightful look into a beloved TV show, exploring what made it work and what ultimately led to its downfall. It delves into both the best and worst of human nature, reminding us that even behind the laughter of a sitcom, there can be profound and lasting consequences.