Beloved School of Dramatic Arts alumnus and actor John Ritter BA ’71 was best known for his role as Jack Tripper on the series Three’s Company (which earned him an Emmy and Golden Globe Award in 1984), the spin-off Three’s a Crowd and 8 Simple Rules.
After graduating from USC, he appeared in over 100 films and television series — including the film version of Noises Off (1992), Problem Child (1990) and, even, voicing Clifford the Big Red Dog on PBS. Ritter also performed on Broadway, most notably as Claude Pichon in the 2000 run of The Dinner Party, for which he earned the 2001 Theatre World Award.
On Aug. 25, ABC will air Superstar: John Ritter as part of a series which “examine[s] the mavericks who shaped American Culture” (ABC), including Whitney Houston, Kobe Bryant and Robin Williams. Ritter’s episode examines his life and influence onscreen and beyond, featuring interviews with Ritter’s family and several of his comedy colleagues.
“He never misses a moment,” Three’s Company co-star Suzanne Somers said in the documentary trailer, smiling at an old clip. Ritter’s son, Jason, is also interviewed on his father’s legacy, as are Jimmy Kimmel, Henry Winkler, Kaley Cuoco and more.
Superstar: John Ritter airs Aug. 25 on ABC at 10/9c, and will also stream on Hulu. Watch the trailer here.
Update: Watch the full special online.