Suzanne Somers, a name that evokes a sense of nostalgia for anyone who grew up watching classic ’70s television. She was the bubbly blonde Chrissy Snow on “Three’s Company,” a show that was as iconic as it was controversial for its time. Suzanne passed away recently at the age of 76, just a day before her 77th birthday, surrounded by her family. Her death has left a void in the world of entertainment, and tributes have been pouring in from celebrities and fans alike. Barry Manilow, a close friend and neighbor, described her as “one of our greatest comedic actors, a loving mother, an amazing homemaker, and one of the world’s best cooks.”

Now, let’s talk about “Three’s Company,” shall we? The show was groundbreaking in many ways, but it’s also a product of its time. It’s so late 70’s / Early 80’s that I really wanted to live in Santa Monica and hang out at the Reagle Beagle.

It’s hard to imagine a show like that being made today, and here’s why:

The premise alone—two women and a man sharing an apartment—was scandalous for the late ’70s. The man, Jack Tripper, had to pretend he was gay to be allowed to live with two women, Chrissy and Janet. The landlords, Mr. and Mrs. Roper, were always snooping around, trying to catch Jack in a compromising position. The show was filled with sexual innuendos, misunderstandings, and slapstick comedy, elements that might not fly in today’s more sensitive climate.

But let’s not forget the other shows of that era that also pushed boundaries. “All in the Family,” for example, tackled issues like racism, women’s rights, and the Vietnam War. Then there was “M*A*S*H,” a comedy-drama about a mobile army surgical hospital during the Korean War, which also dealt with heavy themes like death and the futility of war. These shows, like “Three’s Company,” were revolutionary but are also a reflection of the times they were created in.

Suzanne Somers’ role as Chrissy was pivotal to the show’s success. She brought a certain naivety and charm to the character that made her instantly likable. But it wasn’t all smooth sailing for Suzanne on the show. She faced challenges, including a highly publicized contract dispute that eventually led to her departure. Despite this, she went on to have a successful career as an actress, best-selling author, and entrepreneur. She even battled cancer for over 23 years, revealing in July that her breast cancer had returned. Through it all, she remained a fighter, never letting the disease control her.

Suzanne’s portrayal of Chrissy was so iconic that when she left the show due to a contract dispute, her absence was deeply felt. The show tried to fill the void with new characters, but none could capture the audience’s heart the way Chrissy did. It’s a testament to Suzanne’s talent that her character left such an indelible mark.

Now, let’s circle back to why “Three’s Company” could never be made today. The show thrived on sexual innuendos, misunderstandings, and the constant tension between the characters. In today’s climate, where conversations about consent and boundaries are front and center, the show’s premise would be considered problematic. The landlords, Mr. and Mrs. Roper, would be seen as invasive and creepy rather than quirky and funny. The character of Chrissy Snow, despite her depth, might be criticized for perpetuating the “dumb blonde” stereotype.

But that’s the thing about television history; it serves as a time capsule. It shows us how far we’ve come and gives us a glimpse into the societal norms of the past. Shows like “Three’s Company,” “All in the Family,” and “M*A*S*H” were revolutionary for their time, but they also reflect the attitudes and beliefs of the era in which they were made.

Suzanne Somers was more than just Chrissy Snow. She had the best thighs thanks to “ThighMaster.

Ah, the ThighMaster! You can’t talk about Suzanne Somers without mentioning this iconic piece of fitness equipment. It’s like talking about peanut butter and forgetting the jelly. Suzanne didn’t just endorse the ThighMaster; she became synonymous with it. Picture this: it’s the ’90s, and there she is on your TV screen, effortlessly squeezing this contraption between her legs, making it look like the easiest thing in the world. And you know what?

People bought into it—big time.

The ThighMaster sold millions of units, and it wasn’t just because it promised toned thighs. It was because Suzanne Somers was the face of it. She brought credibility and a certain flair to a product that might have otherwise been just another fitness fad.

So, whether you owned a ThighMaster or just remember those unforgettable commercials, you’ve got to give it to Suzanne; she knew how to make an impact, not just on screen but in the world of fitness and wellness too.

She was an entrepreneur, a best-selling author, and a health advocate. She battled cancer for over two decades, showing her resilience and strength. She was a woman who defied norms and broke barriers, both on and off-screen. Her death is a loss, but her legacy is a treasure trove of performances, books, and entrepreneurial ventures that will continue to inspire.

So, as we say goodbye to this incredible woman, let’s also say thank you.

Thank you, Suzanne Somers, for the laughs, the lessons, and the endless inspiration. You may be gone, but you will never be forgotten.