John Ritter’s widow remembers the comedy legend

Amy Yasbeck keeps Ritter’s memory alive with the John Ritter Foundation to raise awareness around aortic dissection, the heart disease that killed the actor.
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[@JasonB95]

Can't believe it's been 20 years. I remember when his death hit the news. It was such a shock. Three's Company was an institution in our home. Great to see his widow preserve his legacy and save lives.

[@Juliaflo]

He would have turned 75.

[@nealsmall9316]

​@@JuliafloHow did he die ?

[@Destrate]

​​@@nealsmall9316 Seriously? Watch the video.

[@sharonfarrar5316]

​@@nealsmall9316 Watch the video. Question answered.

[@nealsmall9316]

@@sharonfarrar5316 Tell me do you 🩸

[@Beachgrl1717]

Wow! 20 years!! John is very dearly missed!! Such a tragedy of how he passed! Blessings to his family.

[@omarcogle1965]

A few months before John Ritter died, Johnny Cash died as well too.

[@peachesj4748]

​@@omarcogle1965 Nope. Ritter and Cash actually died a couple of hours apart. John Ritter was pronounced dead at 10:48pm Pacific time, September 11, 2003. Johnny Cash died around 2:00am Central Time, September 12, 2003.

[@vickybiagini8623]

My Aunt Annette twenty years ago before John died got a Happy Mothers day phone call, and a card mailed to her by John. She loved John Ritter and he was so kind to her to her. She has since passed at 55 of Cervical Cancer. Cant believe its been twenty years already.

[@nlp6082]

I loved John Ritter! He still brings laughter to me in Three’s Company 😂

[@tkohearn5645]

My brother died from this condition at 56. I am so glad to see you saving others❤️❤️

[@twistoffate4791]

I am so sorry for the loss of your brother.

[@ninademci1500]

I can’t believe it’s been 20 years! I remember watching the episode of “8 Simple Rules” after he passed away and knew his cast mates’ tears were from real grief. Thank you Ms. Yasbek for such a big contribution to the medical field.

[@eldeadpoolfan]

Oh I remember that too and my dad even crying for that two parter. He never cried. I just rewatched the 1st season on Disney Plus and midway season two.

[@brianstevens100]

I'm with you on that. This popped up on my feed and I went. 20? Really?

[@Destrate]

I remember them trying to continue 8 Simple Rules after his passing, it didn't have a chance to go on without him.

[@startracker5895]

@@Destrateit was so disrespectful to continue the show. Plus the fact it wasn’t nearly as good as when John was in it.

[@Destrate]

@@startracker5895 100%

[@bethedifference7624]

Wow. Amy has just grown into such a stunning and compassionate woman. John is absolutely watching over her with love and pride.

[@suzypos4571]

He's still one of my favorite comedic actors ❤

[@kristyp2585]

Same. Threes Company still makes me laugh hysterically.

[@maxinedavieds6104]

Thank you Amy. Everyone loved John and we remember him lovingly. He was the best. I remember hearing the news and being heartbroken that this happened. And scared about how.

[@lindaconstantineau1358]

Thanks for the laughter John, you were a most brilliant comedic actor, one of the best there ever was.❤❤

[@jonathanhamiltonjrbigjohn2409]

Wow. It's been quite a while since John Ritter passed on in 2003, and right before his 55th birthday. I remember his voice on Clifford The Big Red Dog and I know and remembered when my mom told me that he had passed on, it was a definite shock. I'll also never forget when he was on Problem Child 1 and 2 as well. You are deeply missed John Ritter, we will never forget you, sir!

[@kristyp2585]

I just watched him in Bad Santa...even in a relatively small role, he was hilarious.

[@amya2345]

If anyone could be brought back to us, I wish it would be John Ritter - love him so much !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@lauralarrabee7870]

My dad died from the same thing. The hospital waited too long to treat him. All they saw was a man who had seen better years. He was our protector, provider, our fearless leader and trailblazer for his time. Glad that Amy is continuing John’s legacy. Her grace and poise and love for her husband is admirable.

[@Weaver7770]

It was so shocking to hear what happeneded to him. He paved the way for physical comedy and he was so talented and such a loving person. He is always missed and never forgotten 🙏💔🙏

[@tommyriam8320]

_'He paved the way for physical comedy..'_ WTF ?? Well, don't go telling that to those countless physical comedians (or their ghosts) that have legendarily come before him.. A lengthy roster that includes the likes of Buster Keaton, Charlie Chaplin, Jerry Lewis, Dick Van Dyke , Lucille Ball..

[@nitat4601]

WoW...20 yrs! I remember still watching him on 3's Company & how hilarious he was on there too...He was just so talented & so missed...His wife is so awesome following through & keeping us informed & alerted to be aware to the dangers of Aortic Dissection! I'm surely gonna talk w)my cardiologist about this as I had a widow maker a few yrs ago...I want to make sure my children will be ok...Great info shared. Cont'd Blessings I send to you & your dear family ❤🙏🏼

[@Sephcala]

WOW!!! 20 years ago. This one hurt me when it happened. But the great thing is, he can still make us laugh through reruns.

[@yvonnecooper5004]

Such a talent. A genuinely nice person. He is missed. How is his son Jason? This is genetic. I know their was a concern for him at one point. Loved john on the United Cerebral Palsy telethon for years.

[@chanabayla1823]

The reason why he was on the telethon was because his brother has CP. And, they probably paid him big time to do it

[@christopherpbernier]

Amazing Absolutely Amazing 👍🏾👍🏾. Let John Ritter’s legacy live on forever. He’ll always be in our hearts.

[@stacyfabiszewski4633]

I can't believe that it has been 20 years as well! I love John Ritter so much, such a HUGE fan. He died a day before my birthday 20 years ago, for me and his family, friends and fans were mourning him. Every year I think of John, And every now and then I think of him, he will never be forgotten, he is always loved . He was a great, loving, hilarious man. I'm so happy his wife is spreading around all the info to save a life and tons more every day.

[@aprilking4058]

I remember him vividly growing up watching Three's Company . He was a comedic genius . He is sorely and dearly missed RiP

[@katiewilliams5643]

Wow it’s hard to believe it’s been 20 years i loved you guys in problem child and Johns apperence on threes company prayers to his family glad his legacy continues still go on in others.

[@MortenEng]

20 years, and never forgotten and we still love John Ritter. I love him as the voice of Clifford the Big Red Dog.

[@debrataylor1719]

I miss him so much, I watch all reruns of our classic John Ritter and friends ❤

[@kittyformanrn9268]

John was such a great part of my childhood.❤

[@anjiharrell6175]

So underrated. He It was an outstanding comedic actor. His Physical comedy was equal to Robin Williams easily. He really didn’t get credit for how talented he actually was. RIP John. 🙏🏽❤

[@tommyriam8320]

_'Actually'_ , he's a slight bit *overrated*

[@donbeaudoin3915]

I recently started re-watching Buffy The Vampire Slayer and his episode came on, I love that episode and he was so good in it...he was so good in everything. I miss him. Thank you for this❤

[@jenniferhansen3622]

I still watch Three's Company. ❤

[@dannigro8794]

Shocked that it’s 20 years. I remember 20 years ago this weekend I was watching his final film in theaters Bad Santa. He was great in it

[@victorsecillo5788]

Yes I do miss John Ritter may he rest in peace great comedian and a great person 👍

[@brianbaxter3913]

Wow 20 years where has the time gone. John Ritter was one of the best comedic actors. He and Robin Williams are my favorites. I love watching Three's Company and still watch reruns on KZbin and he still makes me laugh. Good on Amy for keeping his memory alive and doing such good work to bring awareness to this condition. Gone but never forgotten. RIP John

[@PeaceLovePaperbacks]

20 years ago. To think it was so long ago. His wife using his life and story to save others is beautiful and amazing.

[@lacheazure]

20 years I didn’t realize it’s been that long. I’m glad I’m still able to laugh with what he has left us to cherish ❤

[@joannaaguilar4961]

John Ritter foundation is the best way to save life and to honor him R.I.P John we love and miss you

[@jaylene.turner6524]

I hope his family continues to heal from this loss. No matter how long it was, it still hurts. Glad other people survived from this now that doctors have more information.

[@tommyriam8320]

His daughter, not only hasn't _'healed from this loss'_ but has instead gone completely bonkers; now pumped full of crazy drugs and hormones the poor thing is convinced herself that she's a dude. Sad.

[@mattb6369]

Thank you so much, Amy! If you see this comment amongst so many just please know what you're doing for John is the most incredible blessing and honor, loved him in Three's Company and loved you in Wings.

[@4deepWeCreep]

As a 25yr old Afro Americo. I came home late night from a party and my 2 roommates were getting on my case because I forgot to bring home late night tacos as I usually do on a Saturday night. I sat on the couch watching TV (happy) because I was buzzed a lill from the alcohol. Threes company came on and the TV remote was to damm far for me to reach lol (it was a few feet away) 😂 OMG I started CRYING LAUGHING!! What the F*** have I’ve been missing??? The 80s looked Freekn awesome!! I stayed up all night looking at this marathon Howling Laughing myself sober until like 7am. I couldn’t get enough. I recorded some of them to show the girls that this show reminded of us in a way. And OmG Don Knotts 🤣 Genius!! I started going back and watching old movies of his and maaaan I miss this guy. There is nobody and I mean nobody that can match John Ritter!! Love n Miss ya

[@mrblue8439]

He was such an entertainer

[@sweetlanakay]

John is so missed and loved♥️ God Bless his family. Twenty years its like yesterday

[@usasstar]

I can’t lose in 20 years. Remember my family watching threes company when we were growing up he always made us laugh. I wish they caught it in time and he will still be here with us. It’s so sad.

[@brianciofani4698]

So sweet how she talks about him 20 years later. Hope I am remembered like that.

[@the80sfanatic13]

20 years? Wow. I can't believe it's been that long. I love him on Three's Company. That is one of my favorite TV shows. Making me laugh every day. My condolences to Amy.

[@anitawalker1535]

20 years!! That's unbelievable

[@superbird24]

Love John Ritter, especially on Three’s Company. His style of physical comedy was appreciated by none other than Lucille Ball. ❤

[@rosalindalay4499]

Awesome awareness and education..I miss him too..loved watching him.. very sweet n funny guy!! Went to school with his cousin in my high school art classes ❤️

[@Pizza-TimeStudios54]

20 years ago, we lost our comedic friend, who's been loved by us and made us happy with laughter. Rest in Heavenly Peace, John Ritter. 😭😇🙏☁️❤🌹

[@heathercenteno6469]

Can’t believe it’s been that long still sad I still watch all his shows and movies so amazing love him rest in heaven miss him so much gone but not forgotten

[@kimwaddell4218]

I remember John Ritter when I was really really young.

[@helenmayberry6010]

Gone too soon RIP John (Jack) Ritter...RIP 💔🕊🕊🕊

[@BlimeyT.]

Wow can't believe it's 20 yrs. Already 😢

[@braydenolsen5876]

John Ritter. I own “Three’s Company” on DVD and watch it all the time. Ritter was-and still is-comedy gold.

[@davidstewart5905]

So sad RIP I love John what a comedy actor wish they did a clip of them on Cosby show to

[@richardremick1639]

This was hard to watch I'm still crying John died..so loved ❤️

[@debbietopeze7318]

I will always remember John. I've been a fan since three's company especially.

[@markchapman3287]

I miss him so much and cried at his passing.

[@kristyp2585]

I cant believe he's been gone that long. I've loved him since I was a little kid watching Threes Company with all the adults, laughing along at his ridiculous antics. I was so excited to see him again on 8 Simple Rules. We miss you John.

[@justineves3588]

He will always be one of the very best funny lol actor ever and I can't believe it has been 20 years since he died 😊❤

[@christinamcilwaine350]

Rest In Everlasting Peace John Ritter never forgotten 🤍💛🕊️🕯️🕊️💛 🇺🇲 forever remembered loved and missed

[@marleymcdermott1065]

Gone but never forgotten , thank you John for making us laugh. RIP Sweet man 🙏

[@Templar_Knight.214]

At age 44 my aorta ripped and I went to the hospital.the doctor seen only my kidneys were failing and my lungs stopped working but didn't see the rip in my aorta.after I went home from the hospital.i lived with the aorta rip for 4 days.then I went to the hospital and the doctor seen the rip and I had to wait another 3 days before I had surgery. Thank you Lord for giving me a second chance.

[@melissap.5650]

WOW! 20 yrs John Ritter was so Funny!!! ❤

[@toddanthony6664]

The footage from 0:59-1:04 was shot on the set of 8 Simple Rules the day he died, September 11, 2003. Those are the last images of John ever recorded.

[@dannigro8794]

Was that really from that very day? Wow.

[@toddanthony6664]

@@dannigro8794 Yeah. That shot of him sitting in the chair is heartbreaking. You can almost see the discomfort in his face.

[@daniellelockhart1527]

RIP John Ritter ❤

[@marionfrench7091]

Still love watching John, and the other out of this world great actors, in Three's Company. I laugh every time. He was so great!!!

[@giovannivera5638]

My favorite shows ❤❤❤❤ . I really miss you.

[@lindaopperthauser2284]

What a great comedian/actor. Truly missed. Great guy.

[@estlhm805]

memories kept alive through his family

[@julievanderleest]

My mom had an aortic aneurysm in her heart. All of her siblings have one as well. Two of her brothers had heart attacks but survived thankfully. My mom passed unexpectedly this year. It was so sudden with no warning. Her and I returned home from a day out and she had made herself some tea and rested on the couch. Within minutes she was gone. I tried chest compressions and the police came and continued with them until medics arrived and they had her heart beating but once they stopped compressions, her heart stopped. It was very painful to watch and I don’t wish that on anyone. I still have flashbacks of that day.

[@SEGARFAN1]

Wonderful very talented man who was taken way too soon !!!❤❤

[@john-paulnagel2732]

Such a Beautiful Soul ❤

[@dianedraveski6485]

You are an Angel Amy. God bless you always ❤

[@onenonlyprincess2]

my grandfather passed away in a similar heart defect, back in 1998. I miss him very much

[@terimills6191]

I miss John Ritter so much. I can't believe it's been 20 years already. We all got cheated out of many more years of such comedic genius. It does warm my heart to see him in the faces of his beautiful children though. John lives on through them.

[@carolynm8421]

It was so shocking and heartbreaking when John died. I grew up, like many my age, watching him on Threes Company. John was a comedy genius. I'll never forget that hammock scene, ever. If you're really young, go look up his work, you'll be glad you did. It still feels like there was a mistake that needs correcting. As for her message to keep seeking answers and get informed, it's so very important. Don't always accept what a doctor tells you if you think they're not correct. Find someone who will truly listen to your concerns and, always, be an advocate for yourself. I almost died from an illness called Autoimmune Encephalitis. Most doctors, even neurologists, seem to have never heard of it. It took eleven months in hell to find someone who gave be high dose, prolonged steroids that brought me out of it. Never stop fighting for yourself even if you're barely able to open your eyes, as I was, hang on and find an answer. It's out there. Science is an amazing thing... you just have to find someone who will listen.

[@shaunsteele6926]

20 years without John Ritter! no wonder the world is falling apart

[@theodoramorris9907]

I still watch Three's company 😢😢❤❤

[@evierose7881]

i was 5 when he passed but he was always one of my favourite actors when i was a kid i love the problem child movies i heard about the tragic news on tv he always be remembered alongside belushi, candy as one of the greatest actors hes just a good actor , threes company , 8 simple rules but my heart goes out to his family

[@tommyriam8320]

_'passed'_ where?

[@maryc327]

Wow, 20 years ago?! I'm so happy to hear about the awareness being created by the Ritter foundation! Being a Wellness Practitioner, I can't stress enough that people start getting more serious about their healthcare checks starting in their 40s. Have you ever heard of thermography tests? They are incredible for detection. Develop a relationship with your Doctor and move your Lymphatic system every day. Just a few tips for awareness.

[@JoeBuck207]

Seems like just like yesterday.

[@ricj7517]

One of my favs so sad he's gone

[@Mommysalami6]

I loved him and was so heartbroken when he passed.

[@mikecarpenter8022]

😢 loss of my dad in 2002 and John and my dad only few months apart in ages my love and heart goes out of jason and amy and the family so sad make me cry 😢

[@Mrbeckwith1906]

John was truly a legend gone too soon. Problem Child, Threes Company. May his legacy live on.

[@canyonproductions7683]

I worked with Amy for a day on a show. Probably a month after John passed. I did Not know she was his wife for a few years after. She was so nice. I remember thinking… Why was this lady so nice? She just was. This segment actually made me cry for a second. I grew up a fan of Johns and it was so calm talking backstage with Amy that day. 🙏🏻❤️

[@jimwilliams9382]

It's a truly wonderful thing she's doing. I just hope hospitals get the machine & actually use it . I just did work for someone that Bruce died from it. He had heart surgery & finally was sent home & actually was doing good when it burst open & he passed. Sad😢

[@PC_TV_73]

It’s crazy to think 20 years past. It’s also crazy to think that he should still be with us. I’m going to watch or go look for threes or crowd. I know it wasn’t the most popular but I really enjoyed that series. Actually I really enjoyed everything from that time. Late 70s early 80swere the best ever for me. I was born in 73 and I would give anything to go back to the late 70s again.

[@mikeyd946]

Both my Brother passed away at 21 of Heart complications and then my sister last year at 37 of heart failure. I have been tested and continue to get scans and tested. It is my biggest fear. I am glad she is out there being an advocate for this cause. God bless.

[@video198712]

Hard to believe it's been 20 years since we tragically lost Comic Legend, John Ritter. He was on tv show, The Waltons, Three's Company and 8 Simple Rules For Dating my Teenage Daughter.

[@odalisgonzalez6875]

Such a loss & great work his widow is doing

[@robert-xk9ks]

John Ritter was and always be the best comedy actor that brings joy and happiness to life he was always will be a great man kind and funny

[@Rodsuper]

Wow, 20 years since losing a great comedic genius. I grew up watching him, and it is so important to keep this fight on saving lives.

[@robertchambers6344]

Such a sad when he passed. And this interview moved me.

[@eva5601]

I watched "Threes Company" in the late 1970's when I was just 11, or 12. Also Suzanne Sommers passed away recently. 😮 Only Richard Kline, and Joyce De Witt remain from the main characters 😢😢😢

[@francine4651]

What a awesome man😇❤❤

[@happycanadianfarmer]

I watched a movie he was in earlier today ❤

[@yingcartoonist]

John Ritter was the voice Clifford the Big Red Dog ❤ 🐶 he is great actor good bye Clifford

[@SofiaBerruxSubs]

I've started watching him on 8 Simple Rules for Dating my Teenage Daughter. I also saw him on Cliford too. I didn't know who he was or that he was on a show I grew up with good actor. I was only 2 when he passed away.

[@truthisinfinite]

John made me laugh so much more than any other Comedian. My heart is still broken all these years later. 🙏💔🙏

[@NathanSpies]

I remember John Ritter from when he was the voice of Clifford The Big Red Dog

[@Cereal_kwilla]

I LOVE THEM BOTH IN THE “PROBLEM CHILD” MOVIES!

[@tammyzenzen]

Loved John Rittet❤he will forever by timeless ❤