Suzanne Somers dies: Three’s Company actor dies at 76

Sitcom star Suzanne Somers has died at the age of 76, after living with breast cancer for 23 years.

Actress and businesswoman best known for playing Chrissie Snow Three CompanyShe died on Sunday (October 15) surrounded by her family, the day before her 77th birthday.

R. Corey Hay, Somers’ longtime publicist, announced the news in a statement that said: “Susan Somers passed away peacefully at her home in the early morning hours of October 15.

“She survived an aggressive form of breast cancer for over 23 years. Susan was surrounded by her loving husband Alan, her son Bruce, and her immediate family.

“Her family gathered to celebrate her 77th birthday on October 16. Instead, they will celebrate her extraordinary life, and want to thank the millions of fans and followers who loved her so much.

In July, Sommers, who also played Carol Foster Lambert Step by StepShe revealed in an Instagram post that her breast cancer had returned.

“As you know, I had breast cancer two decades ago, and every now and then it comes back, and I continue to fight it,” she wrote.

“I have used the best alternative and traditional treatments to combat it. This is not new territory for me. I know how to wear combat gear and I am a fighter.”

She also praised her husband, Alan Hamel, who she said has been by her side “every step of the way.”

“I can’t even explain how much he has done for me. If that’s possible, we are closer than ever,” she added. “My amazing family have been so supportive.”

Somers starred in the first five series of Three Companystarting in 1977.

In 2015, she also competed on the American version of StrictlyTitled Dancing with the starsAlong with professional partner Tony Dovolani.

Somers has also written a series of self-help books and launched her own line of health and beauty products.

Additional reports by agencies