Stars Honor John Ritter at Annual Charity Event in Hollywood

HOLLYWOOD, Calif. — The legacy of late actor John Ritter was honored on Friday at the “Evening From the Heart” gala held at the Sunset Room in Hollywood. His widow, Amy Yasbeck, continues to elevate awareness for thoracic aortic disease through the John Ritter Foundation, which focuses on research, education, and advocacy.

This year’s event featured a table read of a 1983 episode of “8 Simple Rules” titled “Going to Pot.” Ritter starred as Paul Hennessy, a father to three children on the show, when he tragically passed away in 2003 from an aortic dissection.

Prior to the reading, TV Insider spoke to the actors who portrayed his on-screen children: Kaley Cuoco, Martin Spanjers, and Amy Davidson. Cuoco, who played Bridget, embraced her role as Janet Wood from “Three's Company” during the reading. “It’s been super-fun. We rehearsed today. It’s sweet and brings joy,” Cuoco said, expressing her affection for the show’s revival.

Cuoco reminisced about lessons learned from working with Ritter during the series. “The most important thing I learned from John was to do anything for the laugh,” she shared. Davidson also spoke fondly of Ritter, reflecting on how he encouraged her to trust her instincts while acting.

The fourth episode of Ritter’s series addressed his death, forcing the cast to confront their grief in a profound way. “It was very hard to do. He left such a void,” Davidson recalled. “This event is so bittersweet because the one person I want to see…isn’t here,” she added.

Spanjers shared a memory from his teenage years, recalling how Ritter planned to attend his birthday party but got lost. “He ended up taking me out for dinner and a movie,” Spanjers said. “He was sweet and personable.” Describing Ritter’s comedic talent, he said, “He was so brilliant, a once-in-a-generation talent.”

Amy Yasbeck has tirelessly kept the John Ritter Foundation active for over two decades. Cuoco lauded Yasbeck’s dedication, saying, “It’s very special to me and has changed a lot of lives.” The night celebrated the spirit of Ritter through stories of love, laughter, and remembrance.