Actress Suzanne Somers died peacefully at home on October 15 at the age of 76, one day shy of her 77th birthday on October 16th.
Somers’ publicist R. Couri Hay shared the news of her death in a statement: “She survived an aggressive form of breast cancer for over 23 years,” nothing that Somers’ husband Alan Hamel, son Bruce Somers Jr., 57 and her immediate family were by her side. The statement added that “they will celebrate her extraordinary life, and want to thank her millions of fans and followers who loved her dearly. A private family burial will take place this week, with a memorial to follow next month.”
Somers, perhaps best known for her role on the hit sitcom ‘Three’s Company,’ gave fans an update on her ongoing health battle in July; she was first diagnosed with cancer in 2000: “Since I have been taking time off from work, many of you have asked for more details about my health. As you know, I had breast cancer two decades ago, and every now and then it pops up again, and I continue to bat it down. I have used the best alternative and conventional treatments to combat it. This is not new territory for me I know how to put on my battle gear. Alan has been by my side every step of the way. I can’t even explain how much he has done for me. If it’s even possible, we are even closer than ever. My incredible family has been so supportive, and have helped so much by keeping the business running so you can still have access to all the wonderful products. Thank you for the continued love and support. It’s only about who you love and who loves you – and I love you!”
Somers landed the role of Chrissy Snow on ABC’s sitcom “Three’s Company” in 1977 opposite John Ritter and Joyce DeWitt, exiting the series after five seasons over contract disputes. In 1990, Somers starred in ABC’s “Step by Step” opposite Patrick Duffy; the series ran for seven seasons.
Somers is survived by her husband, Alan Hamel, and her son Bruce Jr. (whom she shared with her ex-husband, Bruce Somers). Somers was also a step-parent to Stephen and Leslie Hamel from her husband’s previous marriage, and grandmother to six grandchildren.
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