Nostalgia Unleashed: Parents Speak Out

The Rise of Mrs. Roper’s Romps: A Nostalgic Celebration of a Cultural Icon

Diane Smith, a 55-year-old woman from Illinois, had always been a fan of the classic sitcom Three’s Company. But it wasn’t until she saw a post about “Mrs. Roper’s Romps” that she felt inspired to plan one of her own. These events, now a nationwide phenomenon, are based on the character of Helen Roper, the feisty and unforgettable wife of Stanley Roper in the show.

The sitcom, which aired from 1977 to 1984, revolved around three single roommates living together in an apartment owned by the Ropers. The humor came from the male lead, Jack Tripper, pretending to be gay so he could live with two women without violating Mr. Roper’s rules. While the premise might seem dated today, it was groundbreaking for its time. Helen Roper, played by Audra Lindley, quickly discovered the ruse but chose to go along with it, adding a layer of complexity to the show’s comedic structure.

Helen’s character stood out not just for her wit, but for her boldness. She wore oversized glasses, billowy caftans, and a red-haired wig, all while trying to seduce her uninterested husband. Her personality was a mix of sass and self-assurance, making her a unique figure in television history.

From Costumes to Community

Bud Moore, a 53-year-old man from New Orleans, first thought of dressing up as Helen Roper for the Southern Decadence parade in 2013. He invited his friends, and they loved the idea. What started as a one-time costume party soon evolved into something much bigger. The group of 55 men who participated in that first event were just the beginning of a movement.

Moore later created a Facebook page to share details about the events, and the community grew rapidly. By 2023, the page had over 7,000 members, and by 2025, it had expanded to nearly 85,000 members across 49 U.S. states, seven Canadian provinces, and 15 other countries. The gatherings have become a way for fans to connect, celebrate their shared love for the show, and honor Helen Roper’s legacy.

A Global Phenomenon

Today, Mrs. Roper’s Romps take place in a variety of settings, from winery patios to neighborhood bars. Attendees range in age from their 20s to their 70s and beyond. Over 1,000 events have taken place worldwide, each celebrating Helen’s sassy spirit and fearless attitude.

At a recent event at LaTeaDa Tea Room in Clinton, Illinois, guests dressed in floral muumuus and red-orange wigs enjoyed themed cocktails, music from the '70s, and plenty of dancing. For many, these events are more than just a costume party—they’re a nostalgic trip back to the days of Three’s Company.

Sondra DeVries, a 55-year-old attendee, described the experience as a great way to meet new friends and enjoy a night out. She even rewatched clips of the show after the event, reminiscing about the humor and charm of the original series.

Why Helen Roper Still Resonates

Smith believes part of the appeal lies in how ahead of her time Helen was. Though she had few lines, her presence was powerful. She didn’t let anyone walk all over her, and that confidence is what continues to attract fans today.

The events also tap into a strong sense of nostalgia. Many attendees grew up watching Three’s Company and now see the Romps as a way to reconnect with their past. Some events are part of larger celebrations, such as Pride parades or pub crawls, while others are destination gatherings at wineries, campgrounds, or historic taverns.

Despite the show’s dated premise, Three’s Company remains a cultural touchstone. It consistently ranked in the top 10 for six consecutive seasons and has found new fans through syndication and DVD releases. The Ropers even had their own spinoff series, cementing their place in pop culture history.

A Lasting Legacy

For those who attend Mrs. Roper’s Romps, there’s something empowering about stepping into the role of Helen. She embraced her individuality with confidence, and that spirit lives on in the gatherings. Whether it’s the caftan, the wig, or the wink, Helenistas are committed to celebrating the character that started it all.

As the events continue to grow, it’s clear that Helen Roper’s influence is far from over. Her legacy lives on in the laughter, the costumes, and the memories made at every Romp.