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John Ritter Obituary
Ritter fell ill Thursday on the set of his ABC sitcom "8 Simple Rules ... For Dating My Teenage Daughter," said Susan Wilcox, his assistant of 22 years.
The cause of death was a dissection of the aorta, the result of an unrecognized flaw in his heart, said his publicist, Lisa Kasteler.
Ritter died at Providence St. Joseph Medical Center shortly after 10 p.m. Thursday.
Ritter, a Southern California native who lived in Beverly Hills, came to prominence for his role in "Three's Company" and had appeared in more than 25 television movies and a number of films.
Ritter, who would have turned 55 on Wednesday, made a successful return to sitcom acting with "8 Simple Rules" last year, and the ABC show was scheduled to begin its second season on Sept. 23.
At the Burbank hospital where he died, Ritter was accompanied by producers and co-workers, his wife, Amy Yasbeck, and 23-year-old son Jason, Wilcox said. He is survived by three other children, Carly, Tyler and Stella.
"It's just stunning, unbelievable," said Wilcox. "Everybody loved John Ritter. Everybody loved working with him. ... Whatever set he was working on, he made it a very fun place."
ABC released a statement saying: "All of us at ABC, Touchstone Television and The Walt Disney Company are shocked and heartbroken at the terrible news of John's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife and children at this very difficult time."
Ritter was the youngest son of Western film star and country musician Tex Ritter. He graduated from Hollywood High School and earned a degree in drama from the University of Southern California.
Ritter appeared in more than 50 plays nationwide and won critical acclaim for his recent nine-month role in the Broadway premiere of Neil Simon's "The Dinner Party." He received an Emmy and other awards for his "Three's Company" role and was honored by the Los Angeles Music Center in June with a lifetime achievement award.
Copyright © 2003 The Associated Press
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Chip Fitts
February 23, 2025
So funny dancing at that stuffy formal party in the episode Up in the air, just watched it!!!!! Loved his antics!!!
Rest easy John aka Jack Tripper.
Chip FITTS
November 25, 2024
I CAN'T IMAGINE ANYONE ELSE AS JACK TRIPPER. JOHN NAILED THAT PART. THREES COMPANY WAS ONE OF MY
FAVORITE SHOWS AND STILL IS. WHAT A TERRIFIC CAST. JOHN YOU'LL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN REST EASY.
Marjorie B Bradshaw
November 18, 2024
Thank you for sharing your life with us. I'm praying for your family.
Leslie Redaway
October 15, 2024
Rest In Heaven
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CHIP FITTS
September 8, 2024
ENJOYED WATCHING JOHN IN PROBLEM CHILD AND ITS SEQUEL, GREAT FILMS
CHIP FITTS
September 8, 2024
JOHN RITTER WAS SO TALENTED, SUCH A LAID BACK EASYGOING GUY WITH
GREAT SENSE OF HUMOR, PLAYING EVERY ROLE WITH PERFECTION. ENJOYED
HIS PORTRAYAL OF JACK IN THREE'S COMPANY AND HIS HILARIOUS ANTICS.
GONE TOO SOON. R.I.P. JOHN YOU ARE IRREPLACEABLE
chip fitts
August 22, 2024
When I watched John's antics on Three's Company. Veey funny man.Love his interactions with his co stars. Passed away too soon which is sad.
Chip Fitts
August 22, 2024
John was amazing and awesome, believable in every part he played, so hilarious as Jack Tripper on Threes Company.
Loved the show R.I.P. John
Laura
December 6, 2023
RIP John
Lisa Weiner
November 19, 2023
To John Ritter.
You were a very talented actor. You did a great job playing Jack Tripper on sitcom three’s company & Paul on the sitcom eight simple rules for dating my teenage daughter. You made me laugh. My prayers go to your family and friends. Lisa Weiner
Bill Darling
September 5, 2023
Dawn Jamison
July 19, 2023
I love you John!!! Nobody can make me laugh like you.. Thank you
September 11, 2021
Always adored John Ritter as an actor with my favorite show of all time being Three's Company. Happy Heavenly birthday to him today! Clearly, he was an amazing person who continues to be painfully missed by all who knew him, loved him, and appreciated his many talents! Thoughts, prayers, and continued condolences to all of his family, friends, and fans!
A Lee
December 18, 2016
Thoughts and prayers to Mr John Ritter's loved ones. Everything he starred in is golden. One of the greatest actors of all time. John is an angel in heaven. We love you. Three's Company is watched everyday and his many other great works. A kind gentleman always.
Evelyn Powers
September 16, 2016
John...You would be brought to tears if you knew just how many people throughout the country (and even the world) have written to express their condolences, memories, love, and, respect for you and your incredible talent! I am so very grateful I met you through your dear friend and college buddy, Rob Shipp, and want everyone to know how gracious and kind you were throughout all the rehearsals and all the productions of the play "A Place To Stay" by Richard Culliton which you co-starred in with your dear friend, Lucie Arnaz. Your wife, at that time, Nancy Morgan couldn't have been sweeter and your three kids were just adorable. I will forever remember you, John. You were a dear man, a sweetheart of a guy, and, an enormously gifted comedian. Thank you for being you!
Ann Russell
September 14, 2016
As one of John Ritters biggest fans from Canada I wanted to send my prayers to the family on what would have been John Ritters 68th birthday on September 17th I remember a wonderful actor and comedien John Ritter I loved watching John on the Waltons Threes Company and Eight Simple Rules one of the funniest actors in Hollywood what a legend he was one of if not the best and his memory will live on in all his fans Rest in peace John and God Bless
Josie Giachini
June 29, 2016
June 29, 2016
I often think of you, John, as I am a big fan. Your work on Three's Company will forever bring a smile to my face, and when the show is on or I put in a DVD, I laugh like it's the first time I'm seeing it, and am very reminiscent of my childhood. You were a household name. Your role as Jack touched the hearts of many because of his funny antics and sweetness. He was truly an endearing character that we all looked forward to seeing in our living rooms. With your immeasurable talents and a great supporting cast, the show burst into popularity, and is still remembered fondly. Who could forget the famous hammock scene when the gang goes away for the weekend, or when Janet and Mrs. Roper take a stand at the nude beach? There are countless, memorable episodes. You went on to do other shows and films, and your last series was another hit for your fans and now, their kids. I still remember when I got the news that you had passed away. I came home from work that Friday afternoon, when my husband gave me the news. I was stunned and immediately felt deeply saddened. May you rest in peace. You are loved by so many. |
Valenda Newell
June 26, 2016
John you left us too soon, your talent as an actor and comedian is immeasurable. I still have memories of you on the tv sit-com THREE'S COMPANY my favorite show because of your talent JOHN. Many Blessings to family and friends...RIP
Harry Simpson
September 12, 2015
Thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.
Theresa Whitt
January 12, 2015
You were the best. I loved watching anything you did. The world needs more people like you. And now we also lost Robin Williams, our world is a much sader place without you and Robin.you two were geart together. You wil be missed.
Edward Michael Stark
December 20, 2014
It's been eleven years and still I can't find the words that express the lost we all feel in the Motion Production Industry. You are truly missed by everyone. You left a void the size of our universe in our lives. I wish I had ESP and saw this coming. I would have done or said something. I believe in God and Heaven. I know that you are still doing something great up there. Peace be onto you and your family always.
Sharon Migliore
September 25, 2014
R.I.P my friend you brought a lot of laughter and smiles to the world
you are greatly missed by all. God Bless
kevin smith
September 23, 2014
you were the male version of lucille ball you were that great with physical comedy you made us all laugh thanks for the memories.
September 23, 2014
Was just thinking of you the other day. I feel so very fortunate I got to know you and am able to attest that you were one of the sweetest, funniest, most caring people I will ever meet. Having both you and Lucie (Arnaz) star in "A Place To Stay" was an honor and privilege for me to be involved in. Seeing the two of you together on stage, well...it just didn't get any better than that. Like everyone else, I was shocked and saddened by your untimely passing and want you (and your family) to know that you are DEARLY missed by MILLIONS.
Love you, John. Always will.
Sadly,
Evelyn Powers,
Former Literary Agent
Bloomington, Indiana
Thomas Bush
September 22, 2014
john Ritter thanks for all the laughs on three's company i also remember you on mash R I P with your s=dad tex ritter
Donna Bateman
September 18, 2014
We shared a birthday so I feel that in some way we were connected. To soon to young.
Dyana Gonzalez
September 18, 2014
Loved that you always made me laugh on your series threes company. You were such a great comedian. I enjoy seeing your son now on the show parenthood, because I get to see you all over again. RIP Mr. Ritter. Forever in our hearts.
September 17, 2014
i love you you made me happy you were funny you are with your lord god bless you john rest in peace
carol
September 17, 2014
Air laugh when I watch you on tv
I miss you you always made me laugh and forget my troubles.rest in peace
Susan Shocklee
September 17, 2014
To this day I laugh when watching you...you were a true comic...sorely missed
Stephanie Kalani
July 9, 2014
Always in our hearts
sherry baker-deas
June 23, 2014
will never be forgoten may the laughter always continue. RIP john
Marilyn Gotfried
April 13, 2014
I miss you
Melinda Taylor
February 23, 2014
You are gone from our lives you are in our Hearts from Heaven with your wounderful smile We Miss and Love You
Melinda Taylor
February 23, 2014
To John Family
It's been Ten Years Since you left your family and fans We think of you every day you are not with us on earth but in ours Hearts From Heaven God Bless All
Vicki Boston
September 11, 2013
Yes 10 years passed, since you left us. But you'll ALWAYS be ALIVE in spirit.
We STILL LUV YA JACK TRIPPER! Thanks for those WARM pleasant memories-and FUN HUMORS!
Lisa Weiner
July 15, 2013
To John Ritter.
You were a very talented actor..I enjoyed watching you on the sitcoms three's company three's a crowd and eight simple rules for dating my
Teenage daughter. My prayers are with you, your family. And friends.. Lisa Weiner
Gloria
July 13, 2013
To John,
You were a fine actor.I loved you on Three's Company as Jack Tripper.You made every episode truly unforgettable.Also, enjoyed seeing you in the movie Problem Child 1 and Problem Child 2.The movie, Problem Child 3 was not good since you were not the actor in it.You are surely missed by your many fans.You were way too young to die! You will always be remembered and forever missed! Rest In Peace, John!!
Richard Owen
March 3, 2013
Rest In Peace, Mr. Ritter, & Please Give Your Papa A Big "Howdy For Me Too. See You On The Other Side On That Beautiful Day.
luz pinero
January 29, 2013
the best one i never miss threes company and he was one of a kind actor i admire him and my condolences for his love ones. forever john ritter the best one
Jenny
December 13, 2012
John Ritter was a terrific actor and comedian. He could be hysterically funny like he was as the clumsy, lovable Jack Tripper as well as portraying a serious character in a drama. It was a pleasure to watch him on Three's Company, and it was delightful to hear him as the voice of Clifford the Big Red Dog.
There will ever be another like him. He was a handsome, funny, and talented man who will be missed by countless fans.
He didn't need to knock on heaven's door, they were waiting there for him.
Rev. Scott Christensen
September 18, 2012
Your Family is in my thoughts and prayers.
I always enjoyed watching you on television. My favorite was watching you Play the Rev. Fordwick on the Waltons. Looking forward to meeting you in heaven sine day my friend. Gods Blessings on your family.
jerri sams
September 7, 2012
one of a million the best ever
Cyndi Bosley
July 4, 2012
I Have Always Enjoyed Watching Three\s Company. Loved The Show.John Played As Jack Alway's Was A Pleasure To Watch. A Man Who Never Should Have Died Rest In Piece My Friend,
Nancy Vaillancourt
May 9, 2012
I love you John!!
Brittany Villegas
May 8, 2012
Hi John Ritter, I just want to say that you are an amazing person! You are the only person who can make me laugh the hardest, and smile the most, whenever I watch you play Jack Tripper on Three's Company, or 8 Simple Rules for Dating my Teenage Daughter. I look up to you as a role model, and a father figure. Thank you for opening my eyes to view the world in a different perspective. I truly cherish the people I have in my life, especially my loved ones, because I can love and laugh with them. Through your example, I can do something silly, and be kind to others which is what living is all about. Your philosophy of the connectedness to others is so true. God bless you for fulfilling your destiny, I believe you were placed on this earth to touch people's lives through Love and Laughter. I can't wait to meet you one day in Heaven. Until then I will continue to view your legacy, and keep on loving and laughing, God bless you and your family always.
Lisa Weiner
March 17, 2012
To John Ritter,
You were a great actor. You did a job as Jack Tripper on the sitcoms Three's Company and Three's a Crowd. You also did a great job playing Paul on the sitcom Eight simples rules dating my teenager daughter. My thoughts go out to your family. Lisa Weiner
Chele Wright
February 20, 2012
Jack tripper to Ben problem child etc I cld go on n on we love u stil I watch threes company all the time threes a crowd etc to was awesome
February 17, 2012
The love for you, John, will never go away!!! We all love you more than just words could ever tell!
Angelina Garrett
February 16, 2012
Dear John,
Thank you for all the laughs you brought into my home I've enjoyed watching you on Three's Company. You were a fine actor and a chip off the old block for you looked just like your father "Tex Ritter" May you rest in piece !!!
stephanie kalani
February 15, 2012
when i heard about your passing i was so upset and couldnt work. We never met but watching you over the years i felt like i knew you personally. You seemed to be a very kind and giving man. May you rest in peace.
Helen Bayliss
February 10, 2012
You are so sadly missed in Scotland you always made us laugh thank you for that John x
September 22, 2011
I am so sorry about your lost! Regardless of time the pain is still evident, however may this proved to be as soothing balm "the power beyond what is normal may be God's and not that out of ourselves." (2 Corinthians 4:7)
Kathy Dawson
September 21, 2011
I was very sad when John died...I loved everything he did,he was very funny.I always watched Three's Company and he has been missed.
Vicki Boston
September 12, 2011
8 years ago-was it THAT long? We'll remember you and what a wonderful actor and warm caring human you were. RIP.
September 11, 2011
I am a german author and i always loved to see John on TV. He was amazing and wonderful. I can´t fight the tears down... we love and miss you, John. Forever. Katrin Hollek
Grady Youngblood
September 6, 2011
John Ritter is in Heaven with God in Christ always Rejoiceing Forever More. He
very very Funny on TV.
Dawn Jamison
September 1, 2011
I can't express the feelings I have about John. When I was 8 yrs. old my mom would ground me from Three's Company as a punishment...it was a punishment not to be able to see him every week. I made a personal scrapbook to look at each September to remember him as I watch many episodes of Three's Company and laugh my butt off. I beleive in the after life and I know he's aware of us. I LOVE you John.
Thank you for all the laughter you have brought into my life.
Victoria Fuentes
September 1, 2011
I loved you in Problem Child when I was a kid and you cracked me up in Bad Santa...I'm sad that there aren't any new projects of yours to look forward too...
Lisa Weiner
August 21, 2011
To John Ritter,
I really wish you still alive to make me laugh all over again. Thanks for the great memories and I miss you too. Lisa Weiner
Paul W
August 20, 2011
You made me laugh and enjoy happiness. God rest your soul. Miss you....Paul
Lisa Weiner
November 11, 2010
To John Ritter,
I've watched you on the sitcoms Three's company, Three's a Crowd and Eight Simple Rules for Dating my teenage daughter. You really were a talented actor and you made me laugh . God Bless you John Ritter. Lisa Weiner
Jesus Welcomes A Child Home-Jeff & Janice
Jeff & Janice Eble
November 7, 2010
I Am The Resurrection & The Life-Jeff & Janice
Jeff & Janice Eble
November 7, 2010
Wings Of Love-Jeff & Janice
Jeff & Janice Eble
November 7, 2010
In Loving Memory Of John Ritter-Jeff & Janice
Jeff & Janice Eble
November 7, 2010
Peggy Gfeill
October 2, 2010
you will always be missed . You were always be in our hearts
Mohammad ali
October 1, 2010
John i love u forever u gave me so many lovely moments and laughters with Ur co-hosts that i can never forget. u will live in my memories forever.to Ur family i say GOD bless u and may GOD give u peace and happiness because John is still alive in many hearts and minds. he was a gifted actor whom nobody will ever replace.
Newton
September 27, 2010
To the Ritter family, sorry for your loss he was a real good actor. He loved doing what he did or he wouldn't have stayed in the movie industry. GOD gave him the talent of comedy to make other people laugh and for get about what was on there mind at least for a little while, and sometimes that's all we need. I was shocked when I learned of his passing. GOD needed another ANGEL to be in HEAVEN with him, as we all are on borrowed time with our familys here on earth. So we should all enjoy each other cause we don't know when GOD will call us home. May Mr. Ritter REST IN PEACE. And thank you for making us laugh. <3 <3 <3
Tammy
September 13, 2010
Your legacy lives on....
Judy Allaire
September 4, 2010
So sorry for his death; loved his comedy. Such a special man! God Bless You!
Emily Nicora
March 24, 2010
John Ritter was a really funny actor, like in 8 simple rules. He will really be missed! I am really sorry for the family and the close friends.
March 7, 2010
For John...
WEEP NOT FOR ME
Do not weep for me when I no longer dwell among the wonders of the earth; for my larger self is free, and my soul rejoices on the other side of pain...on the other side of darkness.
Do not weep for me, for I am a ray of sunshine that touches your skin, a tropical breeze upon your face, the hush of joy within your heart and the innocence of babes in mothers arms.
I am the hope in a darkened night. And, in your hour of need, I will be there to comfort you. I will share your tears, your joys, your fears, your disappointments and your triumphs.
Do not weep for me, for I am cradled
in the arms of God. I walk with the angels, and hear the music beyond the stars.
Do not weep for me, for I am within you;
I am peace, love, I am a soft wind that caresses the flowers. I am the calm that follows a raging storm. I am an autumns leaf that floats among the garden of God, and I am pure white snow that softly falls upon your hand.
Do not weep for me, for I shall never die, as long as you remember me...
with a smile and a sigh.
© Joe Fazio
~
[email protected] /Joe Fazio,
Beverly Hills, California
Richard Bartlett
March 1, 2010
I will miss John Ritter, he was a very good comedian actor in any role he played. I grew up with him when he played on Three's company with very fond memories. RIP John
Dawn Vint
February 26, 2010
I loved anything you did John, you were such a great actor! I loved Jack Tripper the best, he was such a sweet character. He was so good to women, no matter what...a true gentleman. I look forward to meeting you in Heaven. God bless your family and friends.
January 17, 2010
To John Ritter,
I thought you were great in the sitcom Three's Company, three's a crowd and 8 simple rules. I will miss watching you on t.v. alot. Lisa Weiner.
Riley Adams
November 8, 2009
Mrs.Ritter,
I am very sorry about your husbands death. I have been very sad after watching "8 Simple Rules." Tell your family he will be missed.
Age 6.
Matthew McGuire
November 7, 2009
Deepest condolences.
Sandy Smith
September 14, 2009
Dear John,
When I heard about your passing that I was devastated.I didn't know what to think.You are being missed by friends, family and fans.Rest in peace.
July 1, 2009
THANKS FOR ALL THE LAUGHS,JOHN YOU ARE AT PEACE
Rita Webber
June 28, 2009
Dear John,
I was devastated when I heard of your passing. I could not believe that you were gone. You were a great actor and comedian. You reminded me of Jerry Lewis with all the stunts that you did on Three's Company. That was one of my favorite shows back in the 70's. I really miss you and wish you were still around.
Condolences to your wife and children. Rest in peace.
Ruby Warren
June 22, 2009
We loved all his sit coms!!!!
Walley Fairley
June 21, 2009
We miss you and you made us laugh so much. Thanks for the all the laughs. Happy Father's Day
June 20, 2009
missed tremendously in the comical world and as a an icon of 70,80,90's
Ms. Holder
June 20, 2009
John Ritter made me laugh. When someone can make you laugh that's a special person even if you don't know him/her personally. At least at that moment you forget about your problems and worries. Thanks John! Our Heavenly Father promises a time soon when we can see our dear loved ones again. Through His beloved Son, Jesus Christ, Jesus will do what he did on a small scale with Lazarus and others, but on a larger scale. Yes, we have the hope of seeing our loved ones again we have loss in death (John 5:28,29). It will be on a paradise earth with no more crime, poverty, financial worries, sickness or even death (Revelation 21:3,4). As Psalms 37:11 says, "...the meek ones will possess the earth...and find their exquisite delight in the abundance of peace." Remember, these are promises from God!
Joan
June 19, 2009
John, you are missed so much by all of your fans. You were an awesome actor. So funny!
Joanne Gill
June 18, 2009
I know it has been several years since John passed away, but I just starting going on this site. I liked him as an actor and I thought he was a very funny and kind person. He is one of about a handful of people that I didn't know personally that I get sad when I see or hear about them. God Bless.
Sarah Martinez
March 27, 2009
I want to give my deepest sympathy to the Ritter family. I loved John Ritter he was so so funny he could always make me laugh and even now I can watch 3s company and just laugh and laugh even though im sad and I know hes not here anymore but he is in peace in heaven with our Lord Jesus and I know we'll see him again one day. May you rest in peace John
sherry baker-deas
March 25, 2009
I give my sympathy to johns family he was a beautiful person he made us all laugh with joy as he will do in heaven may god bless his soul forever.
Kathleen Penelli
February 19, 2009
To the Ritter family:
Please accept my sincere sympathy in the loss of your beloved John Ritter. I alway enjoyed watching 3's company when I was younger, also I had seen on Lifetime the story about a little girl that played John's Daughter on the show, unfortunately she died, and I think this was a true story, but after watching the movie, it made me more aware of the Make a Wish Foundation, and I now contribute to that foundation so that children and adults can have one final wish .
Chele
February 18, 2009
Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.
Linda
February 18, 2009
I think of you so often--you are missed a lot! You brought a lot of joy to many people and when I watch your old shows---well, you bring me joy again! To your family--I wish you well. Thanks for sharing John Ritter with us.
Mark Lopa
February 18, 2009
The word is not as happy a place without you with us. Thank you for the laughs. Because of video, your legacy will live forever and you will entertain countless generations to come.
Phyllis
February 16, 2009
You are in our hearts forever...
shirley moweary
February 16, 2009
John, you blessed a lot of lives with your laughter. Now you are blessing all the angels.
Bill and Dee Jackson
February 14, 2009
We love you and we watched all of your shows. We also love your son. We see alot of you in him.
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