Suzanne Somers, born on October 16, 1946, in San Bruno, California, became a household name in the 1970s for her portrayal of Chrissy Snow on the iconic television series “Three’s Company.” Known for her charm, beauty, and comedic timing, Somers carved out a unique space for herself in the entertainment industry. Over the years, her journey was marked by not only fame but also personal challenges and triumphs, creating a lasting legacy that continues to inspire.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Suzanne Somers was born to Frank and Marion Somers, with a modest upbringing in the San Francisco Bay Area. Her early interest in performing led her to move to Hollywood, where she initially struggled to gain a foothold in the entertainment industry. Her early career consisted of small roles in TV shows and films, many of which went unnoticed. However, it was clear from the beginning that Somers had the drive and potential to go far.

In the late 1960s, she took on modeling work to support herself while continuing to audition for acting roles. During this period, she appeared in commercials and guest spots on television series, including “The Rockford Files” and “The Partridge Family.” Although these roles were brief, they served as a stepping stone for Somers, who knew her time would come.

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The Rise to Fame: “Three’s Company”

The turning point in Suzanne Somers’ career came when she was cast as Chrissy Snow on the sitcom “Three’s Company” in 1977. The series, which also starred John Ritter and Joyce DeWitt, became a major success and one of the defining TV shows of the late 1970s and early 1980s. Somers’ character, Chrissy Snow, was a lovable, naive blonde who had a knack for finding herself in hilarious situations. Her comedic timing, coupled with her charm, made Chrissy one of the most iconic TV characters of the era.

“Three’s Company” was revolutionary for its time, tackling issues of cohabitation and gender roles with a lighthearted approach. The premise revolved around two women living with a man who pretended to be gay to circumvent the landlord’s rule about single men and women sharing an apartment. The series became a hit, resonating with audiences across America, and Somers’ portrayal of Chrissy was at the heart of its success.

Somers quickly became a pop culture icon, her fame skyrocketing as millions tuned in each week to watch her on screen. However, as with many success stories in Hollywood, her rise to stardom was not without its difficulties.

The Departure from “Three’s Company” and Contract Disputes

In 1981, after several successful seasons, Somers found herself at the center of a highly publicized contract dispute with the producers of “Three’s Company.” She requested a pay raise, feeling that her success on the show merited more recognition, but the producers refused. This led to a highly acrimonious exit from the series, and Chrissy Snow was written out of the show.

Her departure was a turning point in her career. Although she left one of the most popular sitcoms on television, Somers’ career was far from over. The controversy surrounding her exit from the show generated a great deal of media attention, but it also gave her the opportunity to diversify her career beyond television.

Exploring New Roles and Expanding Horizons

After leaving “Three’s Company,” Suzanne Somers worked in various television roles, films, and theater productions. Despite facing challenges in her professional life, she continued to push forward and expand her career. She appeared in several made-for-TV movies and guest-starred on shows like “The Love Boat” and “Full House.”

In addition to acting, Somers also focused on writing, publishing books on topics ranging from health and wellness to personal empowerment. She became an advocate for alternative medicine, particularly hormone therapy, and gained attention for her outspoken views on health and aging.

Somers also explored a career in business, launching a successful line of fitness products, including the Thighmaster. The exercise equipment became a sensation in the 1990s, and Somers’ role as its spokesperson further solidified her place in popular culture. Her approach to wellness and fitness resonated with many, and she became a symbol of empowerment for women who wanted to take control of their health.

“Step By Step” and a New Chapter in Television

In 1991, Suzanne Somers made a triumphant return to television with the sitcom “Step By Step,” which aired on ABC as part of its TGIF lineup. In this series, Somers played Carol Lambert, a mother of three who marries a man with three children of his own. The show became an immediate hit and introduced Somers to a new generation of viewers, further cementing her status as a TV legend.

The series ran for seven seasons and was one of the most successful family-oriented sitcoms of the early 1990s. Somers’ portrayal of Carol Lambert showcased her versatility as an actress, as she transitioned from the bubbly, naive Chrissy Snow to a more grounded, matriarchal figure. “Step By Step” not only revitalized her career but also earned Somers a loyal fanbase that continues to support her work to this day.

Health Advocacy and Later Years

In the years that followed, Suzanne Somers became increasingly involved in health and wellness advocacy. She spoke publicly about her struggles with breast cancer, a diagnosis that she was first diagnosed with in 2001. Her battle with cancer led her to explore alternative treatments, and she became a vocal advocate for natural healing methods.

In the early 2020s, Somers’ health challenges resurfaced as she was once again diagnosed with breast cancer. Despite undergoing treatment, she continued to work on various projects and remained active in her advocacy work. Her resilience in the face of illness was a testament to her strength and determination, inspiring countless individuals who faced their own health battles.

The Passing of a Legend

Suzanne Somers passed away on October 15, 2023, at the age of 76, just one day before her 77th birthday. Her death marked the end of a remarkable journey that spanned over five decades in the entertainment industry. Somers’ legacy lives on through her many contributions to television, film, health advocacy, and her role as a pioneering figure for women in the entertainment industry.

Suzanne Somers’ career and life were marked by triumphs, challenges, and a constant reinvention of herself. From her early days as a struggling actress to her rise to fame on “Three’s Company” and beyond, Somers proved time and time again that she was more than just a pretty face. She was a multi-talented, resilient, and fearless woman who made her mark in the world, leaving a legacy that will not be forgotten.

Her story is one of perseverance, creativity, and a dedication to living life to the fullest. Suzanne Somers may have left this world, but her impact on the entertainment industry and her advocacy for women’s health will continue to inspire for generations to come.

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