Twenty years after the untimely passing of beloved actor John Ritter, his wife, Amy Yasbeck, continues to be a powerful voice in keeping his memory alive and advocating for crucial health awareness. Best known for his Emmy-winning roles in “Three’s Company” and “8 Simple Rules,” John Ritter tragically died at the age of 54 in 2003 due to an aortic dissection that was initially misdiagnosed.
In a recent interview with Fox News Digital, Amy Yasbeck, 61, herself an accomplished actress from “Wings,” opened up about the day of John Ritter’s passing. “John was working on a sitcom, and during the workday he had chest pain, pain in his back… ripping chest pain and nausea,” she recounted. Despite being rushed to the emergency room by a producer, his symptoms were unfortunately mistaken for a heart attack. The true culprit was a thoracic aortic dissection, a life-threatening condition involving a tear in the aorta, the body’s main artery.
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John Ritter smiling.
Actor John Ritter smiling warmly, showcasing his affable personality. ](https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2023/11/NYPICHPDPICT000060849881.jpg)
Driven by profound loss, John Ritter’s wife, Amy Yasbeck, channeled her grief into action by establishing the John Ritter Foundation for Aortic Health. This vital organization is dedicated to raising public awareness about thoracic aortic disease through critical research, comprehensive education, and impactful advocacy. The foundation serves as a beacon of hope and information for those affected by or at risk of aortic conditions.
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ohn Ritter with his
John Ritter pictured with the cast of “8 Simple Rules,” including Katey Sagal and Kaley Cuoco, highlighting his close-knit relationships with co-stars. ](https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2023/11/NYPICHPDPICT000060866173.jpg)
Yasbeck emphasized the resources available through the foundation, stating, “If you’ve been diagnosed, or you need to talk to somebody who’s been in the same situation, we have the aorta advocates and then ‘Ritter Rules,’ which is a set of rules for understanding what your risk is.” These initiatives offer crucial support and guidance to individuals and families navigating the complexities of aortic health.
The bond John Ritter shared with his “8 Simple Rules” family remains strong. When asked about staying in touch with Kaley Cuoco, Yasbeck affirmed, “Absolutely.” Demonstrating their continued support, Cuoco and her partner, Tom Pelphrey, are set to co-chair the John Ritter Foundation’s upcoming event in May, further amplifying the foundation’s reach and impact.
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John Ritter and Amy Yasbeck smiling.
A joyful image of John Ritter and Amy Yasbeck, capturing their loving relationship and shared happiness. ](https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2023/11/NYPICHPDPICT000060862469.jpg)
Beyond her advocacy work, Amy Yasbeck finds solace and remembrance through her children and John Ritter’s children from his previous marriage to Nancy Morgan. “There’s no way to not keep John’s memory alive. All four kids are freaking hilarious, and they do not have to imitate their dad. They’ve all got their own thing,” Yasbeck shared, highlighting the vibrant legacy John Ritter left behind in his family. John Ritter’s children include Jason and Tyler Ritter, who have followed in their father’s footsteps into acting, and Noah Ritter, his son with Amy Yasbeck.
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Amy Yasbeck next to a photo of John Ritter.
Amy Yasbeck standing beside a photograph of John Ritter, symbolizing her dedication to preserving his memory and continuing his legacy. ](https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2023/11/NYPICHPDPICT000071757852.jpg)
John Ritter’s sons, Jason, 43, known for “Parenthood,” and Tyler, 38, who starred in “The McCarthys,” along with their siblings, embody their father’s comedic spirit and talent. Yasbeck fondly noted, “If you get all four kids together, you can kind of re-create John, so that’s always good,” emphasizing the enduring presence of John Ritter’s personality within his family. Amy Yasbeck’s dedication ensures that John Ritter’s legacy as a talented actor and a beloved family man continues to inspire and bring laughter for generations to come.
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Amy Yasbeck in 2003, speaking out about her late husband’s death.
Amy Yasbeck speaking in 2003 shortly after John Ritter’s death, demonstrating her early commitment to raising awareness. ](https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2023/11/NYPICHPDPICT000071879899.jpg)
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John Ritter with Amy Yasbeck, smiling.
A heartwarming photo of Amy Yasbeck and John Ritter sharing a smile, reflecting their deep connection and affection. ](https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2023/11/NYPICHPDPICT000059277191.jpg)
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John Ritter and Amy Yasbeck, smiling and holding a kid.
John Ritter and Amy Yasbeck pictured as a loving family with their child, illustrating their life together. ](https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2023/11/NYPICHPDPICT000071879988.jpg)
