Suzanne Somers was born Suzanne Marie Mahoney on October 16, 1946, in San Bruno, California. Raised in a working-class Irish-American family, she experienced a challenging childhood due to her father’s struggles with alcoholism. Despite these hardships, Somers demonstrated remarkable perseverance, using her early experiences to build the resilience that would later define her career.

She attended Capuchino High School and later pursued higher education at San Francisco College for Women. However, her path took a turn when she became pregnant at 19, leading her to marry her first husband, Bruce Somers. Though the marriage ended in divorce, it was during this period that she began to shape her ambitions for a future in entertainment.

Video: Suzanne Somers Was Discovered One Week After Moving to Hollywood

Breaking Into Hollywood

Suzanne Somers’ entry into Hollywood was not immediate, but through sheer determination, she managed to land small roles in films and television in the late 1960s and early 1970s. One of her first recognizable appearances was as the mysterious blonde in the 1973 classic “American Graffiti,” where she played the woman in the white Thunderbird—a minor but unforgettable role.

She also secured guest spots on television shows such as “The Rockford Files,” “Magnum Force,” and “The Six Million Dollar Man.” However, these were not leading roles, and for a time, Somers struggled to establish herself in an industry that was notoriously difficult for new actresses.

The Breakthrough: “Three’s Company” and Stardom

Suzanne Somers’ big break came in 1977 when she was cast as Chrissy Snow in the hit sitcom “Three’s Company.” Playing the lovable, ditzy blonde opposite John Ritter and Joyce DeWitt, she became an instant fan favorite. Her comedic timing, charm, and on-screen chemistry with her co-stars helped turn the show into one of the most successful sitcoms of the late 1970s.

However, her time on “Three’s Company” was cut short when she demanded a salary increase to match her male co-star, John Ritter. When the network refused, she was written out of the show in 1981. Though it was a major setback at the time, Somers’ decision to stand up for equal pay would later be recognized as an important moment in Hollywood’s history of gender equality in television.

Reinvention and Career Expansion

Despite the fallout from “Three’s Company,” Suzanne Somers did not let it define her career. She successfully reinvented herself, proving that she was much more than a sitcom actress.

Television Comeback: “Step by Step”

In the 1990s, Somers made a triumphant return to network television with the family sitcom “Step by Step.” Starring alongside Patrick Duffy, the show became a major hit, running for seven seasons from 1991 to 1998. This role helped reintroduce her to a new generation of fans and solidified her reputation as a versatile actress.

Entrepreneurial Success and Fitness Empire

Somers’ most significant success beyond acting came in the health and fitness industry. She became an advocate for holistic health, wellness, and alternative medicine. Her biggest entrepreneurial triumph was the ThighMaster, an exercise device that became a cultural phenomenon in the 1990s.

She effectively used television infomercials and personal branding to market the product, turning it into a multi-million-dollar business. Her success as a businesswoman proved that she had an incredible ability to adapt to market trends, making her one of the first celebrities to successfully transition into direct-to-consumer product marketing.

Video: Suzanne Somers: Dancing With The Stars “The Jive”

Suzanne Somers as an Author and Health Advocate

Beyond acting and business, Suzanne Somers became a prolific author, writing numerous books on health, aging, and wellness. Some of her bestselling books include:

• “Ageless: The Naked Truth About Bioidentical Hormones”
• “Breakthrough: Eight Steps to Wellness”
• “Sexy Forever: How to Fight Fat After Forty”

She promoted alternative medicine, organic living, and bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, often appearing on talk shows to discuss her views on aging gracefully. While some of her health claims were met with skepticism, she built a dedicated following of people who embraced her holistic approach to well-being.

Challenges and Personal Resilience

Suzanne Somers’ life was not without its struggles. She was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2000, a challenge that deeply influenced her outlook on health and wellness. Instead of conventional treatments, she explored alternative therapies, which sparked both support and controversy in the medical community.

Her battle with cancer did not slow her down. She continued to advocate for wellness and healthy living while remaining active in the entertainment industry and business world. Her ability to turn personal challenges into motivation for helping others was a defining trait of her career.

Marriage and Personal Life

Suzanne Somers was married to Canadian television host Alan Hamel for over four decades. Their strong partnership was one of the longest-lasting relationships in Hollywood, and Hamel played a crucial role in managing her business ventures. Their enduring love story was often highlighted as an example of a successful Hollywood marriage.

She was also a devoted mother and grandmother, often speaking about the importance of family and maintaining close personal relationships despite a demanding career.

The Legacy of Suzanne Somers

Suzanne Somers’ influence in Hollywood and beyond is undeniable. She was more than just an actress—she was a businesswoman, health advocate, and author who built an empire through sheer determination.

Contributions to Entertainment

Her work on “Three’s Company” and “Step by Step” left an indelible mark on television history, with both shows continuing to be celebrated in pop culture. Her comedic timing, natural charisma, and ability to adapt to different roles made her a beloved actress across multiple generations.

Entrepreneurial Impact

Somers pioneered the trend of celebrity-driven businesses long before it became common in Hollywood. Her success with the ThighMaster and health-related products set the stage for modern influencers and entrepreneurs.

Advocacy and Wellness Influence

Whether people agreed with her views or not, Somers played a significant role in bringing alternative health discussions to the mainstream. Her books empowered many individuals to take control of their well-being, offering perspectives on nutrition, exercise, and aging.

Conclusion

Suzanne Somers lived a remarkable life of reinvention, resilience, and success. From a young actress in Hollywood to a television superstar, bestselling author, and business mogul, she demonstrated an extraordinary ability to evolve with the times.

Her impact on entertainment, business, and health advocacy ensures that her legacy will continue to inspire for generations to come. Whether through her iconic television roles, her bestselling books, or her entrepreneurial achievements, Suzanne Somers remains a symbol of perseverance and determination.

Here are some great photos of her: