Suzanne Somers, the beloved actress who captured the hearts of millions through her roles in ‘Three’s Company’ and ‘Step by Step,’ has passed away at the age of 76. She breathed her last in the early hours of October 15th, just one day before her 77th birthday, surrounded by her loving family in her cherished Palm Springs home.
Suzanne Somers, known for her effervescent personality and iconic blonde hair, was not only a talented actress but also a resilient fighter who battled an aggressive form of breast cancer for over 23 years and died Sunday Morning. Her journey inspired countless individuals, and her story touched the lives of many.
Her longtime publicist, R. Couri Hay, shared the sad news with the world, stating that Suzanne’s family had gathered to celebrate her upcoming 77th birthday but now plans to celebrate her extraordinary life instead. They expressed deep gratitude to her millions of fans and followers who held her dearly in their hearts.
Suzanne’s battle with breast cancer was a testament to her unwavering strength and determination. She faced the dreaded return of the disease with a fighting spirit, donning her battle gear to combat it once more. Over the years, she had explored both alternative and conventional treatments, drawing from her own experiences to inspire others facing similar challenges.
Born in 1946 in San Bruno, California, Suzanne’s early life was marked by turmoil and challenges. At the age of 19, she got married with Bruce Somers as her father was alcoholic and abusive. Despite a tumultuous upbringing, she rose above her circumstances, eventually becoming a successful actress and entrepreneur. She married Alan Hamel in 1977, and their enduring love and partnership were evident throughout their life together.
Suzanne’s career in entertainment began in the late 1960s, and she made her mark with a memorable role in George Lucas’s “American Graffiti.” She also appeared in various television shows in the 1970s, including t”The RockFord Files”, “Magnum Force” and “ The SIx Million Dollar Man”, her career soared when she took on the role of Chrissy Snow in ‘Three’s Company,’ a popular ABC sitcom that ran from 1977 to 1984. Her portrayal of the ditzy blonde alongside John Ritter and Joyce DeWitt became iconic.
In 1980, after four seasons, she asked for a hike from $30,000 an episode to $150,000 an episode, which would have been comparable to what Ritter was getting paid for an episode.
However, Suzanne’s demand for equal pay in the show led to her departure in 1981. Despite the challenges, she used this period as an opportunity to explore new avenues in her career. She ventured into hosting, entrepreneurship, and even became the face of the “ThighMaster.”
In the 1990s, she returned to network television with ‘Step by Step’ and continued to make her mark in the industry. Alongside her acting career, Suzanne authored over 25 books, becoming a New York Times best-selling author. Her literary works covered topics ranging from aging and wellness to beauty and cancer, reflecting her multifaceted talents and interests.
Suzanne Somers leaves behind a legacy that encompasses not only her remarkable career but also her resilience in the face of adversity. She is survived by her “blended family,” including her husband, Alan Hamel, her son Bruce, her stepchildren, Stephen and Leslie, and her six cherished grandchildren.
While her physical presence is no longer with us, Suzanne Somers’ spirit and impact on the world will endure in the hearts of those who admired and loved her. Her journey is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and an inspiration to all who face life’s challenges with courage and determination.