Three’s Company remains a cultural touchstone decades after its final episode aired. The show’s quirky humor, lovable characters, and relatable storylines have earned it a permanent place in the hearts of fans. Recently, one episode from Season 5, A Crowded Romance, has resurfaced, igniting discussions that range from nostalgic admiration to modern-day scrutiny. What is it about this particular episode that has everyone talking? Let’s dive into the details behind the controversy and the charm of this unforgettable sitcom classic.

A Show That Defined 70s and 80s Television

Premiering in 1977, Three’s Company quickly climbed the ranks to become one of TV’s most beloved sitcoms. Its unique premise—two women and a man pretending to be roommates under a false pretense to avoid suspicion—opened the door to endless comedic possibilities. Add slapstick humor, witty one-liners, and a stellar cast led by John Ritter, Suzanne Somers, and Joyce DeWitt, and it’s no wonder the show became a ratings juggernaut.

Even 40 years later, Three’s Company continues to make waves. The chemistry among the cast, the clever misunderstandings, and the iconic settings keep viewers glued to reruns. However, one specific clip from A Crowded Romance has stirred debate, highlighting the timelessness—and the flaws—of this legendary series.

What Happens in “A Crowded Romance”?

In this fifth episode of Season 5, hilarity ensues as Jack (John Ritter) and Larry (Richard Kline) both pursue the same woman without realizing it. The love triangle builds layers of miscommunication, leading to Jack and Larry unknowingly sabotaging each other’s chances with “the one.” Janet (Joyce DeWitt) serves as the mediator, her quick wit and unshakable charm anchoring the episode.

What makes this episode stand out is the perfect storm of comedic timing, engaging performances, and relatable romantic mishaps. The storyline feels like classic Three’s Company—yet, it’s the surrounding circumstances of its production and the absence of Suzanne Somers that make it a hot topic today.

Suzanne Somers’ Absence and Behind-the-Scenes Drama

Astute fans will notice that Suzanne Somers, who played Chrissy Snow, is nowhere to be found in this episode. While many assume this was a result of her infamous contract dispute, there’s more to the story. In 1980, production delays caused by a Screen Actors Guild strike forced the studio to adjust the filming schedule. Somers, already committed to a Las Vegas stage show, couldn’t participate in the episode due to scheduling conflicts.

What adds an ironic twist is that this episode inadvertently became the starting point of her eventual departure. By the time the episode aired in December 1980, her contract negotiations had already soured, culminating in her removal from the series. The timing of A Crowded Romance is a reminder of how quickly Hollywood can turn from camaraderie to conflict.

The Iconic Jack and Janet Dynamic

Without Suzanne Somers, Joyce DeWitt had an opportunity to shine as Janet. Her impeccable comedic timing and ability to hold her own alongside Ritter’s Jack Tripper took center stage. One particularly memorable moment in the episode features Jack jokingly nudging Janet, followed by her playful but pointed reaction: “I hate when you do that.” While the scene was intended as lighthearted humor, it has sparked a modern-day debate about what qualifies as appropriate comedy.

Jack and Janet’s dynamic in this episode underscores why they were the heart of Three’s Company. Their platonic but deeply affectionate relationship grounded the show in realism, balancing out the outlandish comedic setups.

Modern Sensibilities and Controversial Comedy

One of the most discussed aspects of this episode is Jack’s playful slap on Janet’s backside. At the time, the gesture was considered harmless humor, in line with the slapstick nature of the show. However, modern viewers, particularly on social media platforms like TikTok, have pointed out that such a moment wouldn’t fly by today’s standards.

Some fans view it as a relic of a different era, evoking nostalgia for a time when comedy leaned heavily on physical humor and innuendo. Others criticize the scene, labeling it inappropriate and outdated. This clash of perspectives demonstrates how societal norms and expectations have evolved, pushing us to reevaluate the media we once consumed without question.

Janet’s Hairstyle: A Conversation Starter

Amid the debate over comedic boundaries, a lighter topic has emerged: Janet’s hairstyle. Joyce DeWitt’s hair in A Crowded Romance—sleek, voluminous, and perfectly coiffed—has sparked admiration and a wave of nostalgia. Fans have noted how her hairstyle evolved throughout the show, reflecting trends of the late 70s and early 80s.

The iconic look was created by New York hairstylist Harry King, who gave DeWitt a wash-and-wear cut that framed her face beautifully. This effortless yet stylish look became a signature for Janet, solidifying her status as a relatable yet fashionable character.

The Nostalgia of Set Mistakes

Eagle-eyed viewers have also pointed out a supposed blooper in A Crowded Romance. Some fans believed they spotted the top of the set in one scene, sparking playful debates about whether it was a mistake or simply part of the set design. Moments like these remind us of the charm of old-school TV production, where minor imperfections added character rather than detracting from the overall experience.

Why “A Crowded Romance” Still Matters

Episodes like A Crowded Romance highlight the magic of Three’s Company. They showcase the show’s ability to find humor in everyday situations while pushing the boundaries of comedy. However, they also reflect the cultural attitudes of the time, serving as a reminder of how far we’ve come—and how far we still have to go.

Whether you’re laughing at Jack’s antics, admiring Janet’s fashion, or rethinking the appropriateness of certain jokes, this episode proves that Three’s Company remains as relevant as ever. Its legacy lies not just in its ability to make us laugh but in its capacity to spark meaningful conversations decades later.

So, the next time you find yourself watching Three’s Company reruns, take a moment to appreciate the complexities beneath the laughs. After all, even the funniest moments can have layers of meaning—and the power to spark debate