John Ritter’s legacy lives on not only through his iconic work on Three’s Company but also through a charming little secret involving his eldest son, Jason Ritter. Recently, Joyce DeWitt, who played Janet on the longtime beloved sitcom, dropped some delightful insider info about Jason’s surprise cameo in the show’s opening credits—and it’s a story that blends nostalgia with a fresh connection to the past.
Joyce DeWitt Talks About Jason Ritter’s Cameo on Three’s Company
Joyce DeWitt revealed at a panel event called the Southfork Experience: Three’s Company that Jason Ritter, now a well-established actor in his mid-40s, actually made his TV debut as a toddler in the opening credits of Three’s Company. It wasn’t planned well in advance; rather, it was a last-minute, impromptu decision by the director, Dave Powers, during one of their location shoots at the Los Angeles Zoo.
DeWitt explained, “Our director, Dave Powers, was just shooting from the cuff when we would go on location to shoot the credits. There was a rough draft, but not really a game plan.” Since it was an all-day shoot, cast members brought family including children, and Davey just grabbed “anybody and everyone” to throw into the credits.
The toddler toddling up in a pair of blue overalls right next to DeWitt in the opening sequence is none other than Jason Ritter, John Ritter’s first child. DeWitt affectionately recalled, “That was his film premiere. His little overall butt walking up to me.” This charming moment appeared in the opening credits used for seasons 6 through 8 of the show, an Easter egg few fans noticed at the time.
How Jason Ritter’s Cameo Connects to His Dad John Ritter’s Legacy on Three’s Company
This baby cameo links Jason Ritter charmingly to his legendary dad John Ritter, who starred as Jack Tripper on Three’s Company for all eight seasons. Jason has since carved out his own respected acting career with notable roles in shows like Joan of Arcadia, Parenthood, and Matlock reboot, proving the acting talent truly runs in the family.
Joyce DeWitt’s recollection not only sheds light on the behind-the-scenes camaraderie of the Three’s Company cast but also offers a heartwarming legacy moment. Jason’s spontaneous baby appearance in the zoo-themed opening credits is more than just a cute anecdote — it’s a symbol of the familial and heartfelt spirit that permeated the show.
DeWitt’s stories also remind fans of the playful, unscripted moments that made Three’s Company a classic, highlighting how the cast and crew made magic even when plans were rough around the edges. For many, knowing that Jason Ritter—who bears a striking resemblance to his dad—made his debut in this way brings a new layer of connection to the series beloved by many generations.
Jason Ritter’s cameo marks more than a blink-and-you-miss-it moment; it’s a touching link to the late John Ritter’s enduring influence on TV comedy. Joyce DeWitt’s candid memories illuminate how tight-knit and spontaneous the Three’s Company production was, making fans appreciate even more the legacy left by John and carried forward by Jason.
