The 1990s were undeniably the decade of extraterrestrial fascination in Hollywood. From blockbuster hits like Men in Black and Independence Day to the cult classic The X-Files and the quirky Mars Attacks!, audiences were captivated by stories from beyond our world. Amidst this wave of alien-themed entertainment, one sitcom stood out for its unique and hilarious take on life on Earth: 3rd Rock From the Sun. This show, focusing on the cast of 3rd Rock from the Sun, offered a comedic lens through which to view humanity, as seen through the eyes of aliens trying to blend in.
Premiering in January 1996, 3rd Rock From the Sun presented a truly bizarre yet brilliant concept. Imagine four extraterrestrials dispatched to Earth, the third rock from the sun, to observe and report on human behavior. To accomplish this, they assume human forms and adopt the guise of the Solomon family in suburban Ohio. Leading this unusual expedition was Dick Solomon, portrayed brilliantly by John Lithgow. His team consisted of Sally Solomon (Kristen Johnston), Harry Solomon (French Stewart), and Tommy Solomon (Joseph Gordon-Levitt). Each actor perfectly embodied the alien perspective, bringing a fresh and often absurd comedic style to television.
The Solomons, while attempting to understand human society, constantly found themselves perplexed and amused by our everyday customs. Their reports were delivered to their unseen leader, the Big Giant Head, who eventually materialized as William Shatner. Adding to their earthly interactions was Dr. Mary Albright, an anthropologist played by Jane Curtin. Dr. Albright served both as Dick’s intellectual sparring partner and eventual love interest, often becoming entangled in the Solomons’ outlandish schemes.
Despite its unconventional premise, 3rd Rock From the Sun quickly became a critical darling. In 1997, the show dominated the Emmy Awards, securing five wins out of eight nominations. John Lithgow and Kristen Johnston were both recognized for their outstanding performances, winning Outstanding Lead Actor and Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series, respectively. The series also garnered accolades from the Screen Actors Guild and the Golden Globes, solidifying its place as a top-tier sitcom of the era.
Interestingly, landing John Lithgow for the lead role of Dick Solomon wasn’t straightforward. Lithgow, a seasoned actor with a successful career in film and theater, had previously declined a role on Cheers. It took a breakfast meeting with creators Bonnie and Terry Turner to convince him of 3rd Rock‘s potential. Lithgow admitted in a 2012 interview that he initially intended to politely decline the role, but within minutes, the Turners’ passion and the show’s unique concept won him over.
Since the show concluded in May 2001, the cast of 3rd Rock from the Sun has continued to thrive in the entertainment industry. Many have taken on iconic roles in other popular series, demonstrating the lasting impact of their time on the sitcom. Let’s take a look at where some of the main cast members are now:
John Lithgow: From High Commander to Winston Churchill
John Lithgow’s portrayal of Dick Solomon, the High Commander of the alien mission, remains one of his most memorable roles. However, Lithgow’s career extends far beyond 3rd Rock. He has enjoyed a diverse and acclaimed career in television, film, and theater. Notably, he played a chilling villain in Dexter, made memorable guest appearances on 30 Rock and How I Met Your Mother, and appeared in films like Interstellar and Bombshell. He also earned critical praise for his portrayal of Winston Churchill in the early seasons of The Crown.
Kristen Johnston: Sally Solomon’s Earthly Adventures
Kristen Johnston’s Sally Solomon, the lieutenant and security officer, was equally crucial to the comedic dynamic of 3rd Rock. After the sitcom, Johnston showcased her comedic talents in guest roles on shows like Sex and the City (in a particularly iconic episode), Ugly Betty, and Modern Family. She also reunited with French Stewart in the sitcom Mom. Beyond acting, Johnston is also an author, having penned a memoir titled Guts: The Endless Follies and Tiny Triumphs of a Giant Disaster.
French Stewart: Harry Solomon’s Transmission Reception
French Stewart’s Harry Solomon, initially an unplanned member of the mission, became the group’s receiver of messages from the Big Giant Head. Stewart continued his television career with guest appearances on a wide range of shows including Ally McBeal, Bones, and Private Practice. He also had a significant role in the sitcom Mom, alongside Kristen Johnston, further cementing his comedic presence on television.
Joseph Gordon-Levitt: Tommy Solomon’s Growth on Earth
Joseph Gordon-Levitt, despite playing the oldest alien in Tommy Solomon, was the youngest member of the cast of 3rd Rock from the sun at the time. He transitioned seamlessly from child star to acclaimed actor, starring in critically acclaimed films such as 500 Days of Summer, Inception, Looper, and The Trial of the Chicago 7. Gordon-Levitt also ventured into directing and writing with the film Don Jon, showcasing his multifaceted talents.
Jane Curtin: Dr. Mary Albright’s Human Insight
Jane Curtin, a comedy legend from Saturday Night Live, brought her sharp wit to the role of Dr. Mary Albright. Post-3rd Rock, Curtin continued to act in both film and television, appearing in movies like The Heat and Godmothered, and series such as Broad City, The Good Wife, and The Good Fight. Her portrayal of the grounded anthropologist provided a perfect foil to the Solomons’ alien antics.
3rd Rock From the Sun remains a beloved sitcom, cherished for its inventive premise and the stellar performances of its cast. The show’s ability to blend science fiction with relatable humor cemented its place in television history. The talented actors who brought the Solomon family to life have continued to enrich the entertainment world with their diverse and impressive careers, proving that their journey from the third rock from the sun was just the beginning.
