LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Suzanne Somers, a beloved actress and author, died just one day short of her 77th birthday on October 15.
Her devoted husband of many years, Alan Hamel, has now shared poignant details about her final moments in a recent interview with NBC News.
A heartbreaking farewell to Suzanne Somers
Somers, whose battle with cancer had been a well-known public struggle, took her last breath with her loving husband by her side. Hamel, 87, emotionally recounted how he sensed the impending loss in the days leading up to her passing.
"We were in bed together, and her breathing was erratic," Hamel shared, "And I had been talking to her for hours."
Despite his efforts to comfort her, there was minimal response. It was only when he kissed her that she responded. Tragically, around 5 o'clock in the morning, she peacefully slipped away.
Just a few days before her death, Somers appeared to be on the road to recovery, following six weeks of specialized treatment in Chicago. Hamel expressed, "She was eating and was, you know, taking her medicine."
However, things took a sudden turn for the worse after their return home. Somers stopped responding, ceased eating, and discontinued her medication.
Hamel struggled with the decision of whether to call for medical help, but he knew her well enough to understand her wishes. He confided, "I knew that she wouldn’t want that and that she did not want to go to a hospital."
In her final days, Hamel remained a steadfast presence by her side. "I talked to her for hours, every night," he recounted, hopeful that she could hear him as her lips responded. He expressed his gratitude for their supportive family during this incredibly challenging time.
Suzanne Somers and Alan Hamel: A love story for the ages
Somers and Hamel's love story began in 1969 when they crossed paths on the set of ABC's 'The Anniversary Game.' Hamel was instantly captivated by Somers, who was a prize model on the show.
Recalling their first encounter, Hamel admitted, "I saw this incredible woman standing across the stage, and I thought I have to go over there, which I did." Their connection defied Hamel's less-than-eloquent pickup line, which he affectionately called "stupid," but effective.
The couple eventually tied the knot in 1977, evolving into not just life partners but also business partners. Their journey included a pivotal moment in 1980 when Suzanne's contract for 'Three's Company' fell apart, leading to her departure from the show.
Hamel stepped in with unwavering support and a game plan.
"I took her by the shoulders and I said, 'Suzanne, we’re going to make this work for us,' and within a very short time, we had a plan," Hamel recounted. They enlisted experts who understood branding, which paved the way for their success.
Despite the heartache of leaving behind a beloved role on 'Three's Company,' Somers and Hamel channeled their energy into a range of ventures, from bestselling books to a beauty line, Las Vegas residencies, and the iconic ThighMaster. Although Somers found success in her later role on 'Step by Step,' her portrayal of Chrissy Snow held a special place in her heart.
A legacy of compassion and love
Through tears, Hamel shared his hope that Somers would be remembered not only for her contributions to entertainment but also for her role as a loving mother and a source of support for those around her.
"We wouldn’t have this family today if it wasn’t for her," he emphasized.
Somers quietly touched lives by offering comfort and solace to those in need. "I would hear her on the phone talking people down and ensuring everything’s going to be OK. And she tried to respond to everybody," Hamel fondly recalled.
Somers is survived by her devoted husband Hamel, a son, three granddaughters, and two stepchildren. A private ceremony will be held later this week to bid farewell to this remarkable woman who touched the hearts of many.
As news of Hamel's emotional account of Somers' final moments began circulating on social media, an outpouring of support from the internet community swiftly followed. Messages of comfort and sympathy flooded in, with users expressing their condolences and well-wishes.
One Facebook user wrote, "My heart goes out to him," while another shared, "I’m so so sorry for your loss, Alan."
A third user offered a virtual embrace with "Hugs. And prayers," while another expressed, "So sorry for your loss."
The outpouring of love and support continued, with a fifth user writing, "Sending my prayers."
In this challenging time, the internet community rallied around Hamel, providing a digital shoulder to lean on and offering heartfelt words of comfort and sympathy.
