Picture Suzanne Somers—always glowing, always smiling. But behind that dazzling exterior lies a story of resilience and triumph over adversity. In her new book, Two’s Company: A Fifty-Year Romance With Lessons Learned in Love, Life & Business, Suzanne dives deep into her childhood struggles. Growing up, her father, Frank Mahoney, was a loving man who fell victim to alcoholism. "That great guy faded," Suzanne writes, "and the person who emerged was the drunken one—mean, frightening, abusive." Nights became a terrifying ordeal for Suzanne and her family as they hid in locked closets, praying her father wouldn't find them. "Laughter was replaced by long, scary nights," she recalls. "We just wanted him to pass out so we could finally feel safe."
Despite the darkness that loomed over her childhood, Suzanne, now 71, never let it break her spirit. "Even when everything seemed hopeless," she shares, "I refused to fall into despair. I always found the light, always saw the good in each new day. That survival instinct carried me through some of the toughest times." Her ability to stay positive, even in the face of abuse, became a cornerstone of her resilience.
Suzanne on Three’s Company.
Read also:Kelly Clarksons Journey From American Idol To Talk Show Royalty
Achievements and Pride
Today, Suzanne boasts an impressive resume: hit TV shows, 15 New York Times best-selling books, and 40 successful years of marriage to Alan Hamel, 81. But when asked what she’s most proud of, Suzanne doesn't hesitate. "That I’m not a victim," she declares firmly. It’s a testament to her strength and determination to rise above her past.
Early Challenges and Self-Esteem
As a child, Suzanne was often the target of her father’s cruel put-downs, which left a lasting impact on her self-esteem. He called her stupid and worthless, and once she became a teenager, he predicted she'd get "knocked up." Suzanne believed every word, and at 18, she found herself pregnant. "I thought Bruce was sent to save me," she reflects about her son, Bruce Jr., born in 1965. On the day he was born, she made a vow: "I will make a good life for you." That promise became her driving force.
Struggles Turned Strengths
After a brief marriage, Suzanne became a single mom, working odd jobs to support her family. She turned to acting, finding solace in the art of storytelling. "Making up things was how we survived during my childhood and adolescence," she explains. "You create stories to save face, to keep going. Acting felt natural to me because I'd been doing it my whole life." Her struggles became her strength, fueling her career and personal growth.
View this post on InstagramHappy birthday to my darling son @bruces65. You were born good. You light up a room with your smile. You make the world a better place because you are here. Great son, great husband, great father, great friend. I love you with every fiber of my being. Happy Birthday, Love Mom ❤️
Read also:Meet Daniel Lubetzky The New Shark On Shark Tank Season 16
Rise to Fame and Balance
Suzanne's big break came in 1977 with the hit show Three's Company, the same year she married Alan. Despite her newfound fame, Suzanne prioritized family life. "During the Three’s Company years," she recalls, "I rarely attended Hollywood events. I chose to spend weekends at home with my son, Bruce Jr., being a mother." Her dedication to family and career helped her maintain balance and perspective.
Forgiveness and Peace
Suzanne has spent a lifetime reflecting on her father's struggles and their impact on her life. "His battles became my opportunities," she reflects. "The lessons I learned from his alcoholism and criticism gave me my drive. I now realize who I am because of what we went through. His disease was my greatest teacher, and forgiveness has been liberating." Suzanne's journey from victim to victor is a powerful reminder of the strength we can find in adversity.
For more on your favorite stars, pick up the latest issue of Closer Weekly, on newsstands now — and be sure to sign up for our newsletter for exclusive news!
