Suzanne Somers, the effervescent blonde actress renowned for her portrayal of Chrissy Snow in the iconic television show ‘Three’s Company’ and for her multifaceted career as an entrepreneur and New York Times best-selling author, has passed away at 76.
Somers had been battling breast cancer for over two decades and succumbed to the disease on a Sunday morning in Palm Springs, California, surrounded by her loving family.
The news was shared via a statement from her longtime publicist, R. Couri Hay, and the report revealed that her family had initially gathered to celebrate her 77th birthday on October 16th.
Instead, they now commemorate her extraordinary life and express their gratitude to her countless fans and followers who held her in deep affection.
In July, Suzanne Somers took to Instagram to reveal that her breast cancer had returned. Her attitude towards the disease was one of unwavering determination.
Suzanne Somers’ cancer journey began in 2000 when she was first diagnosed, and she had also previously faced and conquered skin cancer.
She was known for her strong advocacy of what she called a chemical-free and organic lifestyle in combating these illnesses, a stance that brought both supporters and critics.
Her opposition to chemotherapy, expressed in her books and on platforms like ‘The Oprah Winfrey Show,’ particularly drew criticism from the American Cancer Society.
Born in 1946 in San Bruno, California, to a gardener father and a medical secretary mother, Suzanne Somers’ early life was tumultuous. Her father struggled with alcoholism and abusive behavior.
She married young, at 19, after becoming pregnant with her son Bruce.
Her marriage to Bruce Somers was short-lived, and she began her career in show business, modeling for ‘The Anniversary Game’ to support herself.
During this phase, she crossed paths with Alan Hamel, whom she would later marry in 1977.
Suzanne Somers utilized her time away from ‘Three’s Company’ to explore new opportunities, including performing in Las Vegas, hosting a talk show, and venturing into entrepreneurship. In the 1990s, she became the spokesperson for the ‘ThighMaster.’
During this decade, she also returned to network television, notably with “Step by Step,” which was part of ABC’s youth-targeted TGIF lineup.
The network also aired a biographical movie about her life, ‘Keeping Secrets.’
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Suzanne Somers’ Joyful Journey Towards Her Final Days
Somers was also a prolific author, penning books on aging, menopause, beauty, wellness, sex, and cancer.
Even in her final days, Suzanne Somers remained in high spirits, surrounded by family, and continued to live life to the fullest. She even granted an interview to People Magazine about her birthday plans to be with her “nearest and dearest.”
In the People story, her husband, Alan Hamel, marveled at her unwavering determination and commitment, remarking, “Even after our five decades together, I still marvel at Suzanne’s amazing determination and commitment.”
In her own words, Suzanne Somers expressed her love for cake and her desire to have “copious amounts of cake.”
Her millions of admirers will remember her indomitable spirit, resilience, and impact on the entertainment industry, health advocacy, and entrepreneurship. Suzanne Somers leaves a legacy that encompasses much more than her iconic role in “Three’s Company.”
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Source: KCRA3
