Suzanne Somers is a name that resonates across multiple industries—she’s an actress, author, entrepreneur, and health advocate. She became a household name in the 1970s, not just for her roles in iconic television shows, but for her unyielding drive and resilience in the face of industry challenges. From her breakthrough role as Chrissy Snow in Three’s Company to her bold foray into health and wellness, Somers’ journey is one of transformation and reinvention.

Early Life and Career Beginnings: From Struggles to Stardom

Born on October 16, 1946, in San Bruno, California, Suzanne Marie Mahoney’s early life was marked by financial struggles and a turbulent home environment. Her father’s alcoholism created an unstable household, but it also instilled in Somers a determination to rise above her circumstances. She knew early on that she wanted to escape the challenges of her environment and make a name for herself.

Her passion for acting began in high school, where she discovered the stage. Somers later attended San Francisco College for Women but dropped out after becoming pregnant at 19, raising her son as a single mother. During these early years, she faced immense financial hardship, working as a model and trying to break into acting. Despite these challenges, Somers’ unwavering determination led her to pursue her dreams, one step at a time.

Discover how Suzanne Somers went from a newcomer to a Hollywood sensation in just one week—watch the video that reveals her incredible rise to fame!

Breakthrough Role in Three’s Company: A Golden Era of Television

Suzanne Somers’ big break came in 1977 when she was cast as Chrissy Snow in the hit sitcom Three’s Company. The show was an instant success, showcasing the comedic antics of three roommates living together in a shared apartment. Somers played the role of the blonde, bubbly, and often clueless Chrissy Snow, and her comedic timing and charm quickly made her a fan favorite.

Three’s Company became one of the highest-rated TV shows of its time, and Somers’ portrayal of Chrissy made her a household name. Her iconic role in the series cemented her place in television history, making her one of the most recognizable actresses of the late 70s and early 80s. However, her success in Three’s Company wasn’t without its challenges, particularly when it came to her demands for equal pay.

Controversy and Resilience: The Fight for Equal Pay in Hollywood

In 1980, after becoming one of the show’s biggest stars, Somers famously requested a significant pay raise, asking for parity with her male co-stars. She wanted her salary to reflect her contribution to the show, which was a bold move at a time when gender inequality in Hollywood was rampant. When the producers refused her request for a $150,000-per-episode salary, Somers was written off the show.

While many saw her departure as a career setback, it was actually a turning point that showcased Somers’ willingness to stand up for her worth and fight for gender equality in Hollywood. Despite the media frenzy and the public perception of her as a “diva,” Somers’ actions paved the way for future conversations about pay equity for women in entertainment. Her decision to leave Three’s Company demonstrated her resilience and unshakable belief in her value, setting the stage for her next chapter.

Reinvention and Success Beyond Acting: A Health Advocate and Entrepreneur

After leaving Three’s Company, Somers faced a period of uncertainty in her career, but she didn’t let that stop her. She reinvented herself by exploring new opportunities in television and film, and later expanded her influence into the health and wellness industry. In the 1990s, Suzanne Somers emerged as a major health advocate, writing books on wellness, aging, and hormone therapy.

Her best-selling book Ageless: The Naked Truth About Bioidentical Hormones (2006) explored the benefits of bioidentical hormone therapy, advocating for a natural approach to managing menopausal symptoms. This book, along with others like Sexy Forever and Breakthrough, positioned Somers as a prominent figure in the wellness space. She became a voice for women’s health, encouraging others to take control of their well-being through natural, holistic treatments.

But Somers didn’t just stop at writing. She ventured into the world of fitness and wellness products, famously launching the ThighMaster, a fitness tool that became a pop culture phenomenon in the 1990s. With catchy infomercials featuring Somers herself, the ThighMaster became a best-seller, further solidifying Somers’ status as an influential entrepreneur. She continued to expand her product line with dietary supplements, skincare products, and home fitness programs, building a successful business empire that complemented her advocacy for holistic health.

Watch Suzanne Somers light up the dance floor with her energetic jive on Dancing With The Stars—a performance that proves her star power never fades!

Advocacy for Wellness and Hormone Therapy: A New Chapter in Health

Suzanne Somers’ commitment to wellness extended beyond her books and products. As an advocate for alternative health practices, she used her platform to educate the public about hormone replacement therapy, aging, and natural healing methods. Somers openly discussed her own experiences with hormone therapy, challenging traditional views on aging and women’s health.

Her book A New Way to Age (2020) offered a comprehensive look at how nutrition, lifestyle changes, and hormone therapy can play a role in aging well. Somers’ focus on aging gracefully and naturally resonated with a large audience, as many women found her approach refreshing and empowering. She showed that growing older doesn’t have to mean losing vitality; instead, it can be an opportunity to thrive and embrace a healthier, more balanced life.

Suzanne Somers’ Personal Life: Resilience and Love in the Spotlight

Throughout her career, Suzanne Somers’ personal life has been just as notable as her professional achievements. In 1977, she married Alan Hamel, a former television host and producer. The couple’s long and loving relationship has been a source of support throughout Somers’ career, with Hamel also serving as her business partner and manager. Together, they built a successful brand and supported each other through the highs and lows of their careers.

Somers’ life has also been marked by health challenges, most notably her battle with breast cancer in 2000. Choosing a more alternative approach to treatment, Somers opted for a lumpectomy followed by hormone therapy and other natural treatments, rather than the conventional chemotherapy and radiation. Her decision sparked public debate but also demonstrated her commitment to natural health solutions. She became a vocal advocate for cancer awareness and holistic medicine, showing her resilience in the face of adversity.

Remembering Suzanne Somers: Watch this heartfelt tribute as we celebrate the life and legacy of the Hollywood icon, who passed away at 76.

Suzanne Somers Today: A Legacy of Reinvention and Advocacy

Today, Suzanne Somers remains an active and influential figure in the health and wellness industry. She continues to write books, make television appearances, and engage with her fans through social media. Her recent Facebook Live show, “Suzanne Somers Live,” co-hosted with her husband Alan Hamel, allows her to connect with her audience on a personal level, sharing insights into her life, wellness tips, and her ongoing journey of reinvention.

Somers’ legacy is one of empowerment, resilience, and authenticity. She has proven that it’s never too late to reinvent yourself, whether in your career or your personal life. Through her work as an actress, entrepreneur, author, and health advocate, Suzanne Somers has shown that true success is not defined by fame or physical appearance but by the courage to live authentically and pursue your passions with determination.