The entertainment world mourns the loss of Suzanne Somers, a beloved actress and cultural icon, who passed away on Sunday, October 15, just a day shy of her 77th birthday. The official cause of her death, as confirmed by her death certificate, was "breast cancer with metastasis to the brain." This aggressive form of breast cancer had plagued Somers for over two decades. Additionally, underlying conditions such as hypertension and hydrocephalus, a condition characterized by the buildup of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain's ventricles, also contributed to her demise.
Somers, best known for her roles in "Three's Company" and "Step by Step," had been battling hydrocephalus for over a year. In July, she underwent ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt surgery to alleviate the excess cerebrospinal fluid. Despite her health challenges, Somers remained active and engaged in her work and personal life until her final moments.
Alan Hamel, Somers' husband of more than 46 years, shared touching memories of their final moments together. Describing their last kiss as "passionate and beautiful," he recalled the depth of their bond, emphasizing that they hadn't spent even an hour apart in 55 years. A few days after her passing, Hamel experienced a poignant vision of Suzanne beside him in bed, a testament to their enduring connection.
Somers' journey with cancer began in her 20s, and she faced it with resilience and determination. Despite the challenges, she and Hamel remained inseparable, drawing strength from each other. Hamel recounted their last road trip together, driving from Chicago to Palm Springs, where they admired the beauty of middle America.
The actress's publicist confirmed that Somers was surrounded by her family when she passed away at her California home. The family had gathered to celebrate her upcoming birthday, but instead, they found themselves commemorating her extraordinary life. A private family burial took place shortly after her death, with a memorial planned for the following month.
Somers' illustrious career began in the late 1960s, with her breakout role in George Lucas's 1973 film "American Graffiti." However, it was her portrayal of the ditzy blonde Chrissy Snow in "Three's Company" that catapulted her to stardom. Despite facing challenges, including a contract dispute that led to her departure from the show, Somers continued to shine in the entertainment industry. She later starred in the sitcom "Step by Step" and became a spokesperson for the Thighmaster, among other ventures.
Behind the glamour and success, Somers faced several health battles. She revealed in a recent interview that she had been living with cancer since her 20s. Each time the disease resurfaced, she fought back with unwavering spirit. Her resilience and determination serve as an inspiration to many.
As tributes pour in from fans and colleagues, the legacy of Suzanne Somers remains indelible. Her contributions to the entertainment industry, her courage in the face of adversity, and her enduring love story with Alan Hamel will forever be remembered.
