Kaley Cuoco opens up about losing her ‘8 Simple Rules’ TV dad John Ritter

Kaley Cuoco recalls late '8 Simple Rules' co-star John Ritter as she opens up about his death and his lasting impact

Kaley Cuoco became emotional while remembering her late 8 Simple Rules co-star John Ritter at the John Ritter Foundation for Aortic Health’s annual Evening From the Heart gala in Los Angeles.

Cuoco, who played Ritter’s daughter Bridget Hennessy on the sitcom, recalled meeting the actor for the first time during a table read. She was 16 when she joined the cast, while Ritter was already an established television star.

The actress remembered Ritter warmly, including an early interaction in which he jokingly criticised her outfit before giving her his jacket. Cuoco said the moment became one of her favourite memories of working with him.

Ritter died in September 2003 at age 54 after suffering a thoracic aortic dissection while on the set of 8 Simple Rules. The actor appeared throughout the sitcom’s first season and in three episodes of its second season before his death.

Speaking about Ritter’s passing, Cuoco said it was “one of the worst days of my life” and recalled feeling as though she had lost her own father. She said Ritter’s humour, talent and leadership continued to influence her throughout her career.

“He always has been the north star in my career and somebody who I adore,” Cuoco said.

The gala was hosted by Ritter’s widow, Amy Yasbeck, and his son Tyler Ritter. The event also featured a reunion of Yasbeck’s Wings co-stars, including Tim Daly, Steven Weber and Tony Shalhoub.

The John Ritter Foundation for Aortic Health continues to raise awareness about aortic dissection, a potentially fatal condition involving a tear in the aorta. The organisation also announced upcoming fundraising events supporting its work.