Joyce DeWitt, renowned for her role in the beloved TV series “Three’s Company,” took a 12-year break from Hollywood following the show’s cancellation. Despite her extended hiatus from the screen, she made a successful return to acting and remains stunning at the age of 74. Let’s explore her life, career, and her reunion with her co-star Suzanne Somers.
Joyce DeWitt was born on April 23, 1949, in Wheeling, West Virginia. She exhibited a passion for performing from a young age, aspiring to act even before beginning school, with a particular interest in roles typically assigned to male actors. Her stage debut occurred when she was just 13, igniting her deep love for performing. This passion led her to attend Speedway Senior High School and eventually graduate from Ball State University in 1972. Her dream was to work in theater in New York City.
Upon arriving in New York, DeWitt faced fierce competition and struggled to make her mark. Initially planning a six-month break, she unexpectedly took a 12-year hiatus from Hollywood. During this time, she explored her spiritual side by studying under various spiritual teachers worldwide.
In 1995, Joyce DeWitt returned to the screen, taking on minor roles in television series like “Cybill” and “Hope Island” and appearing in some movies. Despite her extended absence from the screen, her portrayal of Janet Wood in “Three’s Company” continued to resonate with fans. Some women in their 30s even credited her character with inspiring them to become lawyers.
DeWitt’s decision to step away from Hollywood was rooted in her disillusionment with the industry’s behavior, which clashed with her values. Her initial intention was to take a brief break, but it evolved into a 12-year sabbatical.
In 2011, she finally made her stage debut in New York City, starring in the off-Broadway production of “Miss Abigail’s Guide to Dating, Mating & Marriage.” Although it wasn’t a Broadway production, DeWitt considered it a dream come true. She likened her role in the show to her iconic character in “Three’s Company.”
Despite her long hiatus from acting, her connection with co-star John Ritter remained strong. She fondly recalled her final meeting with Ritter before his untimely passing. They had plans to meet in New York City, but sadly, he passed away just a month later due to an undetected heart condition.
Joyce DeWitt continued her acting career with roles in various projects, including the films “Snapshot” (2014), “Rock Story” (2015), and “The Savant” (2018). In 2018, she appeared in the musical “Scattered, Smothered & Covered Christmas,” which was broadcast on YouTube in December 2020 due to the pandemic.
While DeWitt is not reported to have children or marriage, she remains dedicated to her acting career. According to Celebrity Net Worth, she has an estimated net worth of around $4 million. Her most significant source of pride in her career is her role in “Three’s Company,” which allowed her to bring joy and laughter to people’s lives. Even after 30 years, the show continues to have that impact.
Joyce DeWitt, now 74, is actively involved in the entertainment industry, showcasing her talent and timeless beauty. Her return to acting has been warmly received by fans who cherish her iconic role in “Three’s Company.”
