Why Did Suzanne Somers Leave Three’s Company and Who Replaced Her?

The television series Three's Company was a popular sitcom that ran from the late 1970s to the early 1980s. One of the most notable changes in the show's cast was the departure of actress Suzanne Somers, who played Chrissy Snow, and the subsequent casting of Jenilee Harrison as Chrissy Snow's cousin, Cindy Snow. However, after Harrison struggled with the role, Priscilla Barnes became the permanent replacement for Somers. This article explores the reasons behind Somers' departure, the challenges faced by Harrison, and why producers ultimately chose Barnes to play a central character.

The Departure of Suzanne Somers

Suzanne Somers, a well-known actress and model, initially joined the cast of Three's Company but later decided to leave the show. The primary reason for her departure was her desire for financial compensation. The producers, recognizing the importance of a talent like Suzanne Somers, made the decision to make an example of her by letting her go.

The Casting of Jenilee Harrison

Immediately after Somers' departure, the show brought on a former Los Angeles Rams cheerleader and model named Jenilee Harrison to play the character of Chrissy Snow's cousin, Cindy Snow. Harrison was relatively new to acting, and the producers believed that any attractive face would be able to portray a dim-witted character effectively. However, this proved to be a miscalculation.

VolunteerCaption: Jenilee Harrison, a former LA Rams cheerleader, had a limited acting experience when she joined Three's Company.

Harrison's Challenges and Role Reduction

Despite Harrison's physical attractiveness, her lack of acting experience and timing in comedy quickly became evident. Her role in the show was later scaled back, and she was eventually written out of the main storyline. In the meantime, the producers decided to introduce a new character, featuring Don Knotts as landlord Ralph Furley, who took over a significant portion of the dim-witted lines that were originally intended for Suzanne Somers.

The Decision to Bring in Priscilla Barnes

After Harrison's struggle with the role, the show's producers searched for a new actress who could handle the comedic aspects effectively. The breakthrough came with the casting of Priscilla Barnes, a veteran actress known for her role as Teri Alden, a nurse, in the final season of the show.

Priscilla Barnes had the necessary experience and timing to deliver the comedic lines effectively, making her a suitable replacement for Suzanne Somers. She not only took on the role of Teri Alden but also filled the gap left by the diminished presence of the Ropers and the departing Blairs.

Conclusion

The story of Suzanne Somers, her exit from Three's Company, and the subsequent casting of Jenilee Harrison and Priscilla Barnes highlights the importance of timing, experience, and audience expectations in television casting. The case of Three's Company demonstrates how changes in the cast can impact the dynamics and overall success of a popular television series.