Which American Television Show Was Based on the Popular British Sitcom “Man About the House”
Television shows and movies often draw inspiration from various sources, and one such example is the American sitcom “Three’s Company.” This beloved television show, which aired from 1977 to 1984, was actually based on the popular British sitcom “Man About the House.” Let’s delve into the origins of these shows and explore their similarities and differences.
“Man About the House” was a British sitcom that ran from 1973 to 1976. The show revolved around two single women, Chrissy and Jo, who share a flat with a single man, Robin. The premise of the show relied on the comedic situations that arose from the living arrangement, as the characters faced societal judgment due to their unconventional living situation.
In 1976, “Man About the House” caught the attention of American television producers who saw the potential for adapting it for a wider audience. The American version, “Three’s Company,” maintained the core concept of two single women, Janet and Chrissy, sharing an apartment with a single man, Jack. The show’s creators made several changes to suit American audiences, including altering character names and modifying the dynamic between the characters.
“Three’s Company” premiered in 1977 and became an instant hit. It garnered a massive following and ran for eight seasons, cementing its place in television history. The show’s success can be attributed to its talented cast, witty writing, and the clever use of innuendos and physical comedy.
Now, let’s address some frequently asked questions about “Man About the House” and “Three’s Company”:
1. Was “Three’s Company” a direct adaptation of “Man About the House”?
While “Three’s Company” was based on “Man About the House,” it was not a scene-by-scene remake. The American version took inspiration from the British sitcom but made significant changes.
2. How did the characters differ between the two shows?
The American characters were given different names and had slightly altered personalities compared to their British counterparts.
3. Why did the American version change the character dynamics?
American television producers believed that American audiences might find the original dynamic too controversial or risqué. Therefore, changes were made to make it more suitable for American viewers.
4. Who were the main cast members of “Three’s Company”?
The main cast included John Ritter as Jack Tripper, Joyce DeWitt as Janet Wood, and Suzanne Somers as Chrissy Snow.
5. Did “Man About the House” also enjoy success in the UK?
Yes, “Man About the House” was highly successful in the UK and gained a dedicated fan base during its three-year run.
6. Were there any other adaptations of “Man About the House”?
Yes, “Man About the House” also inspired a spinoff sitcom called “George and Mildred,” which focused on the characters George and Mildred Roper.
7. Did “Three’s Company” face any controversy during its run?
Yes, the show faced criticism for its portrayal of sexual innuendos and its handling of LGBTQ+ themes. However, it remains a beloved sitcom for many.
8. Did any of the original cast members from “Man About the House” make appearances in “Three’s Company”?
No, there were no direct crossovers between the two shows in terms of cast members.
9. How did “Three’s Company” conclude?
The show ended with a two-part episode titled “Friends and Lovers.” It saw Jack finally getting married and leaving the apartment, marking the end of an era.
10. Did “Three’s Company” influence any other television shows?
“Three’s Company” had a significant influence on the sitcom genre, inspiring shows like “Friends” and “New Girl.”
11. Where can I watch “Man About the House” and “Three’s Company” today?
Both shows are available for streaming on various platforms, including DVD releases and online streaming services like Amazon Prime and Hulu.
In conclusion, “Three’s Company” was the American adaptation of the popular British sitcom “Man About the House.” While the two shows shared a similar premise, “Three’s Company” made significant changes to cater to American audiences. Both shows have left an indelible mark on television history, entertaining audiences with their comedic brilliance and timeless humor.