The timeless charm of Three’s Company continues to captivate audiences decades after it first aired. Known for its hilarious misunderstandings, iconic characters, and slapstick humor, the show remains a beloved classic. Recently, a forgotten episode from Season 5, titled A Crowded Romance, has resurfaced, sparking heated discussions online. Whether it’s nostalgia or criticism fueling the conversation, this episode has reminded us why Three’s Company is such a cultural touchstone.

The Charm of Three’s Company

Running from 1977 to 1983, Three’s Company was one of the most popular sitcoms of its time. The show followed the comedic escapades of three roommates—Jack Tripper (John Ritter), Janet Wood (Joyce DeWitt), and Chrissy Snow (Suzanne Somers)—as they navigated life in a shared apartment in Santa Monica.

The show’s humor often stemmed from its central conceit: Jack pretended to be gay to placate their landlords, the Ropers, or later, Mr. Furley. This setup allowed for endless comedic situations filled with innuendo, misunderstandings, and slapstick hilarity.

But Three’s Company wasn’t just about the laughs—it also explored themes of friendship, loyalty, and navigating young adulthood. The chemistry between its cast members, particularly between John Ritter and Joyce DeWitt, was the glue that made the series unforgettable.

Rediscovering “A Crowded Romance”

The Season 5 episode A Crowded Romance has gained renewed attention, sparking debates about its humor and cultural context. First aired on December 2, 1980, the episode revolves around Larry (Richard Kline) meeting a woman he believes is “the one.” In a comedic twist, Jack also starts dating the same woman, unaware of Larry’s involvement.

The resulting love triangle is classic Three’s Company chaos, filled with misunderstandings and laugh-out-loud moments. However, one scene in particular has divided fans.

The Scene Stirring Up Controversy

In the episode, Janet encourages Jack to do some morning exercises. Jack jokingly responds that he’s already “overtrained” with activities like “20 hair combs and two sets of teeth brushing.” Seconds later, Jack gives Janet a playful nudge on her backside, prompting her to quip, “I hate when you do that.”

While this moment was played for laughs in 1980, it’s being reevaluated through today’s lens. On TikTok and other social platforms, viewers are debating whether the scene’s humor has aged poorly. Some fans defend the gesture as harmless and reflective of the show’s lighthearted tone, while others see it as an example of inappropriate behavior that wouldn’t fly in modern sitcoms.

The Absence of Suzanne Somers

Another notable aspect of A Crowded Romance is the absence of Suzanne Somers, who played Chrissy Snow. While her absence became a common occurrence later in Season 5 due to her contract dispute, this episode’s circumstances were different.

The 1980 Screen Actors Guild and AFTRA strike delayed the show’s production, clashing with Somers’ pre-scheduled stage show in Las Vegas. As a result, the producers wrote her out of this episode, marking one of the early instances of her reduced presence in the series.

Somers’ eventual departure from Three’s Company was the result of a pay dispute. She had demanded a significant salary increase to match John Ritter’s earnings, a bold move in an era when equal pay wasn’t widely discussed. Instead of meeting her demands, the producers chose to fire her, a decision that remains controversial to this day.

The Nostalgia and Criticism of 1980s Sitcom Humor

The ongoing debate surrounding A Crowded Romance highlights a broader conversation about the humor of 1970s and 1980s sitcoms. Shows like Three’s Company often pushed boundaries with suggestive jokes, slapstick comedy, and gender-based humor.

Fans nostalgic for the era argue that such humor was lighthearted and reflective of its time. As one TikTok user commented, “It was funny stupid humor! Unfortunately gone today.” Others, however, see these moments as problematic, reinforcing stereotypes and dismissive attitudes that wouldn’t align with modern values.

This divide speaks to how cultural perspectives evolve. What was once considered harmless entertainment is now subject to greater scrutiny, reflecting society’s growing awareness of gender dynamics and respect in relationships.

The Timeless Appeal of Janet and Jack

One aspect of Three’s Company that remains universally praised is the chemistry between John Ritter and Joyce DeWitt. Their dynamic as Jack and Janet anchored the show, providing balance amid the comedic chaos.

In A Crowded Romance, DeWitt shines in her role, showcasing both her comedic timing and her ability to hold her own in the absence of Somers. Janet’s playful yet grounded personality resonated with viewers, making her an essential part of the show’s success.

The Hairstyle Debate: A Lighthearted Takeaway

Beyond the heavier debates, fans have also been revisiting one of Three’s Company’s most endearing quirks—Janet’s evolving hairstyles. Joyce DeWitt’s signature look changed throughout the series, sparking endless discussions among fans.

From her sleek, full-bodied styles in the middle seasons to her shorter, more practical cuts, Janet’s hair became an iconic part of the show’s aesthetic. Fun fact: her early-season hairstyle was often compared to Dorothy Hamill’s famous wedge cut, a nod to 1970s fashion trends.

A Look Back at the Show’s Legacy

As fans revisit Three’s Company, episodes like A Crowded Romance serve as a reminder of the show’s unique blend of humor and heart. While some moments may not align with today’s standards, the series remains a cultural touchstone that continues to spark laughter and conversation.

The playful antics of Jack, Janet, Chrissy, and later Terri and Cindy, have left an indelible mark on television history. Whether you’re rewatching for the comedy, the nostalgia, or the hairstyles, Three’s Company remains a testament to the enduring power of great storytelling and unforgettable characters.

Conclusion

The rediscovery of A Crowded Romance highlights why Three’s Company remains relevant and beloved decades after it first aired. Its humor, though occasionally polarizing, continues to resonate with fans, sparking discussions about how television reflects and shapes societal norms.

At its core, Three’s Company was about connection, friendship, and the hilarious chaos of life’s misunderstandings. Whether you’re team nostalgia or team critique, one thing is certain: this classic sitcom still knows how to get people talking.