Actor, writer, model, and spokesperson,Suzanne Somerswas an iconic star with many talents, including a certain ’90s sitcom that doesn’t get spoken about enough. Starting with small roles in TV and movies, Somers' career took off when she co-starred in the ‘70s sitcomThree’s Company,playing Christmas “Chrissy” Snow alongside Joyce Dewitt and John Ritter. However, following a salary dispute that would lead toSomers departingThree’s Companyafter season 5, it looked like acting career had come to an end. Thankfully, that was not the case.
Most people associate Somers' ’90s work with being the spokesperson for the exercise equipment ThighMaster, but she also graced the screen in 1991 with the arrival of a new family sitcom. This time, Somers took on the role of a TV mom — one that would have a generation of young people seeing her in a whole new light. WithSomers' death on July 17, 2025— one day before her 77th birthday — after a long stint with breast cancer, many may have forgotten about this underappreciated Suzanne Somers ’90s show.
Suzanne Somers Starred In The Underrated ’90s Sitcom Step By Step
She Played Kind-Hearted Mother Carol Foster Lambert
Running for seven seasons as part of ABC’s TGIF lineup,Step by Stepwas a big aspect of many ’90s kids' childhoods.Suzanne Somers and Patrick Duffy play Carol and Frank, two single parents who fall in love, get married, and blend their two families. The premise may sound familiar, butThe Brady Bunchit is not. Where Carol’s family is clean, meticulous, and orderly, Frank’s family is disorganized, unruly, and messy. Over time, the two families come to respect and love one another while traversing the challenges of love, life, and growing up.
Filled with touching moments and hilarious antics,Step by Stepis a vastly underrated sitcom that explored the challenges of adjusting to a new family dynamic at a time when more and more households were dealing with issues of divorce and remarriage.
Unlike its contemporariesFull HouseandFamily Matters,Step by Stepwas much more grounded — while still being hilarious — which may sadly be why its not as well-remembered as these other TGIF shows. For its part,Full Houseleaned into the corniness and had myriad catchphrases, from “You got it, dude” to “Have mercy”. Meanwhile,Family Mattersshifted its focus to the iconic TV geek Steve Urkel.Step by Stepwas also hurtby the season 5 departure of Sasha Mitchell, who played fan-favorite character, himbo Cody Lambert.
Mitchell was fired fromStep by Stepafter being convicted of spousal abuse in 1996.
However,Somers was a huge part ofStep by Step’scharm and humor, lending her exuberance and heart-warming demeanor as Carol, a loving mother who is always there with a sympathetic ear and a warm hug. With her masterful blend of humor and warmth, Somers was a major part of what madeStep by Stepso iconic.
The Step By Step Cast Paid Heartfelt Tribute To The Late Suzanne Somers
They Discussed Somers' Warmth & Kindness At 90s Con
Upon hearing the news of Suzanne Somers’s death in 2023, theStep by Stepcast paid tribute to the TV mom online. Christine Lakin, who played Al in the series, posted a photo onInstagramof herself and Somers on the set, saying, “Her warmth and humor was what made her so real and down-to-earth to everyone she crossed paths with.”Somers’ former TV husband, Patrick Duffy, toldPeople: “When the stone of your life dropped in this pond you made quite a ripple my friend. Thank you.”
In March 2024, theStep by Stepcast came together for a reunion at 90s Con in Hartford, Connecticut. Reflecting on the death of Somers, members of the cast contributed tales of fond memories of the beloved actor. Angela Watson, who played Somers’ daughter, Karen, described tap-dancing with Somers in one episode, calling it the “highlight” of her career. Staci Keanan recalled a generous gift of Prada cashmere tights from Somers, who insisted in a motherly fashion that they would keep her warm (viaPeople).
Among the fun and humorous stories aboutSuzanne Somersfrom the cast, the sentiment for all was the same. Christine Lakin summarized for everyone by saying, “She was so sweet and loving. Her heart was so big, and we really miss her.”
Step by Step
Cast
Step by Step is a family sitcom that aired from 1991 to 1998, following the blended family of Frank Lambert and Carol Foster. Starring Patrick Duffy and Suzanne Somers, the series explores the everyday challenges and comedic moments as Frank and Carol’s respective children navigate their new lives together under one roof. The show combines themes of family dynamics and teenage trials through a humorous lens.
