Joyce DeWitt: Three's Company Star, Then & Now! What Happened?

Mrs. Ruth Bruen V 18 May 2025

Ever wondered what happened to Janet Wood from "Three's Company" after the show ended? Joyce DeWitt's journey is a testament to resilience, proving that a single role, however iconic, doesn't define an entire career. The actress, known for her comedic timing and girl-next-door charm, has navigated the entertainment industry with grace and determination.

From her early aspirations on the stage to her current endeavors, Joyce DeWitt's story is one of perseverance, talent, and evolution. This article delves into the life and career of the celebrated actress, exploring her journey from a small town in West Virginia to the bright lights of Hollywood and beyond. What has she been doing since hanging up Janet Wood's apron? Let's take a look at the actress's life, her challenges and triumphs, and what keeps her going even now.

Personal Information
Birth Name	Joyce Anne DeWitt
Date of Birth	April 23, 1949
Birth Place	Wheeling, West Virginia, USA
Nationality	American
Parents	Paul DeWitt (father), Norma DeWitt (mother)
Career Information
Occupation	Actress, Comedian
Years Active	1975present
Known For	Janet Wood on "Three's Company"
Net Worth (Estimated)	$4 Million (as of 2023)
Website	www.joycedewitt.com

Joyce DeWitt was born on April 23, 1949, in Wheeling, West Virginia, to parents Paul and Norma DeWitt. Growing up, her father was notably unsupportive of her aspirations to become an actress. Despite this early discouragement, DeWitt's passion for acting ignited during her high school years. She began taking stage acting lessons at the age of 13, setting the foundation for what would become a remarkable career.

Her journey wasn't always smooth. In a twist of fate, she once auditioned for a role as one of Fonzie's girlfriends on the iconic sitcom "Happy Days." Producers felt she appeared too young and short for the partan ironic assessment, considering Henry Winkler, who played Fonzie, is only slightly taller than DeWitt. However, this rejection didn't deter her. Just weeks later, she landed the role of Janet Wood on "Three's Company," a part that would forever change her life.

Joyce DeWitt's name is synonymous with Janet Wood, the sensible and grounded roommate on the hit ABC sitcom "Three's Company." Airing from 1977 to 1984, the show catapulted DeWitt to national fame. The series revolved around the comedic misadventures of three roommates: Janet, Chrissy (Suzanne Somers), and Jack (John Ritter), navigating life in a Santa Monica apartment while keeping their landlord in the dark about Jack's presence. DeWitt's portrayal of Janet, the level-headed and compassionate one of the trio, resonated with audiences, solidifying her place in television history.

Even while starring as Janet Wood, Joyce DeWitt continued to expand her repertoire with appearances in other series and films. She made appearances in shows like "Supertrain" and "The Ropers," the latter being a spin-off of "Three's Company." She also graced the screens of "The Love Boat" and starred in television movies like "With This Ring" (1978) and "Saturday's the Place" (1984).

Life after "Three's Company" presented both challenges and opportunities for Joyce DeWitt. Following the series' end in 1984, she appeared in an episode of "Finder of Lost Loves" that same year. However, she then decided to take a break from acting on television, a decision that surprised many but reflected her desire to explore other facets of her craft and life. This hiatus lasted for over a decade, during which DeWitt focused on theater and personal growth.

During this time, DeWitt engaged in various regional theatrical productions, showcasing her talent on stages across the country. She took on roles in Calgary and Jacksonville, Florida, among other locations, demonstrating her commitment to live performance and her versatility as an actress. Her extensive theatrical background encompasses over fifty years, both as an actress and a director, proving her dedication to the art form.

Upon her return to television, DeWitt continued to captivate audiences with her enduring charm and talent. She made appearances in several television shows and movies, reminding viewers of her comedic and dramatic abilities. Her contributions to the entertainment industry have left an indelible mark, and she remains a celebrated figure to this day. In 2023, Joyce DeWitt continues to engage in charity work and occasional film projects, showcasing her commitment to giving back and staying active in the industry.

Joyce DeWitt's personal life has been relatively private. She was in a romantic relationship with actor and director Ray Buktenica from 1973 to 1980. Since then, she has maintained a low profile regarding her personal relationships. In the years following "Three's Company," DeWitt faced some personal challenges, including a highly publicized incident that led to legal issues. These experiences, though difficult, have shaped her perspective and contributed to her growth as an individual.

Joyce DeWitt's journey from Wheeling, West Virginia, to the bright lights of Hollywood is a testament to her talent, determination, and resilience. Despite facing discouragement early in her career, she persevered and found her calling in acting. Her iconic role as Janet Wood on "Three's Company" made her a household name and solidified her place in television history. While the series remains a significant part of her legacy, DeWitt's career extends far beyond that single role. Her work in theater, her appearances in other television shows and movies, and her commitment to charity work demonstrate her versatility and enduring passion for the arts. As of 2023, Joyce DeWitt continues to captivate audiences and inspire aspiring actors with her remarkable story.

While Joyce DeWitt is best known for her role on "Three's Company," she has also made appearances in other productions, showcasing her versatility as an actress. Some of these include roles in "Supertrain," "The Ropers" (a spin-off of "Three's Company"), "The Love Boat," and television movies like "With This Ring" (1978) and "Saturday's the Place" (1984). These roles demonstrate her ability to adapt to different genres and characters, further solidifying her reputation as a talented performer.

The series "Three's Company" also saw the addition of Priscilla Barnes, who joined the cast for its final three seasons, from 1981 to 1984. Barnes appeared in a total of 70 episodes, becoming a familiar face to fans of the show. Her contribution added a new dynamic to the series, showcasing the evolving nature of the sitcom and its characters.

In addition to her acting career, Joyce DeWitt has also made an appearance in the Davisson Brothers Band's song that paid tribute to West Virginia, her birthplace. The video song features several of DeWitt's early career feats, highlighting her roots and her journey to success. This collaboration demonstrates her pride in her home state and her willingness to support fellow artists from West Virginia.

As of 2023, Joyce DeWitt's estimated net worth is around 4 million dollars. She has earned this amount through her professional career as an actress and comedian. Her earnings also include an average of about 35,000 dollars per episode for her work on "Three's Company." This financial success is a testament to her hard work, talent, and dedication to her craft.

Following the conclusion of "Three's Company," Joyce DeWitt chose to withdraw from the public eye for more than ten years before returning to her acting career. This decision allowed her to focus on personal growth, explore other interests, and recharge before re-entering the entertainment industry. Her return was marked by new roles and opportunities, demonstrating her continued passion for acting.

Regardless of her achievements or future endeavors, the overwhelming majority of people will forever associate Joyce DeWitt with "Three's Company." DeWitt herself acknowledges and appreciates this connection, recognizing the impact the show had on her life and career. She attributes this enduring association to a straightforward quality that resonated with audiences and made the show a beloved part of television history.

Joyce DeWitt's journey is not without its share of rumors and controversies. Like many public figures, she has faced scrutiny and speculation regarding her personal life and career choices. Despite these challenges, DeWitt has remained resilient and focused on her work, demonstrating her ability to navigate the complexities of fame and maintain her integrity.

In a twist of fate that feels straight out of a sitcom, DeWitt once auditioned to play one of Fonzies girlfriends on "Happy Days." She didnt land the part because producers said she looked too young and too short for the role (ironically enough, Henry Winkler, who played Fonzie, is only 56 while DeWitt is 54!), but it didnt set her back for long. Sometimes, missing out on one role can lead to the one you were truly meant to play.

Joyce DeWitt, the timeless American actress and comedian, has captivated audiences for decades, leaving an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. Best known for her iconic role as Janet Wood on the beloved ABC sitcom Threes Company from 1977 to 1984, Joyce DeWitts journey from her roots in Wheeling, West Virginia, to the bright lights [\u2026] is a story of talent, perseverance, and enduring appeal.

Joyce DeWitt made her mark on comedy TV as Janet on "Three's Company." Her comedic timing and relatable portrayal of Janet Wood made her a fan favorite and helped solidify the show's success. Her contributions to the genre have been recognized and celebrated, making her a respected figure in the world of comedy.

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