Three’s Company thrived on a comedic formula of misunderstandings and slapstick humor. Its premise was delightfully simple: two beautiful, 20-something women—played by Joyce DeWitt and Suzanne Somers—and one bumbling man, portrayed by John Ritter, shared a platonic living arrangement in Santa Monica. To avoid their nosy landlords’ prying questions, Jack (Ritter) pretended to be gay, resulting in endless comedic situations full of innuendo and confusion.

From 1977 to 1983, the show reigned as a top-ten hit, adored by critics and audiences alike. Even 40 years after its finale, Three’s Company continues to spark conversations and stir emotions.