John Ritter's Legacy Lives On: Touching Tributes at Gala Honoring the Late Actor

Kaley Cuoco and Amy Yasbeck pay tribute to John Ritter at a gala benefiting the John Ritter Foundation for Aortic Health, keeping his memory and impact alive.

John Ritter's legacy continues to shine brightly, honored at a heartwarming gala that celebrated his life and impact. The John Ritter Foundation for Aortic Health's An Evening From The Heart event brought together a constellation of stars to remember the beloved actor and raise awareness of thoracic aortic disease, the condition that tragically cut his life short.

Kaley Cuoco, who shared the screen with Ritter in the beloved sitcom "8 Simple Rules," spoke movingly about her late co-star. "He was very special to me, and he left quite a legacy, not only as an incredible actor but as an incredible human," she told Access Hollywood.

Cuoco recalled Ritter's sage advice that she holds close to her heart: "He'd say, 'They love it! They love it! They love when you mess up.' And I go, 'What?' He'd go, 'Sometimes, I do it on purpose.'" This wisdom has inspired her to embrace the unexpected and find joy in life's imperfections.

Amy Yasbeck, Ritter's widow, and his son, Tyler Ritter, joined Cuoco in honoring his memory. Yasbeck has tirelessly worked to raise awareness of aortic health since her husband's passing, and her dedication was evident at the gala.

Other celebrities who graced the event included Ritter's former "Three's Company" co-stars Joyce DeWitt and Priscilla Barnes, who shared a warm embrace on the red carpet. The reunion brought a touch of nostalgia to the evening, reminding attendees of Ritter's iconic role as Jack Tripper.

The gala also featured tributes from Cary Elwes, Cheri Oteri, Holly Robinson Peete, Katherine Kelly Lang, Heather Tom, and Ashley Jones. Each shared their own memories of Ritter, painting a vivid picture of his humor, kindness, and infectious spirit.

The John Ritter Foundation for Aortic Health works tirelessly to raise awareness of this potentially fatal condition, providing resources for research, education, and advocacy. Ritter's passing brought the issue to the forefront, and the foundation's work continues to save lives.

Cuoco emphasized the importance of supporting the foundation, saying, "I remember when I would mess up in front of the audience, he'd go, 'They love it! They love it! They love when you mess up.' And I go, 'What?' He'd go, 'Sometimes, I do it on purpose.'"

Ritter's legacy extends beyond his memorable roles on television. He remains an inspiration to countless lives, reminding us to embrace laughter, cherish the moments, and live with a compassionate heart. The gala served as a poignant reminder of his enduring impact and the power of memories to keep loved ones forever close.