We all know and love Bob Saget as Danny Tanner, the wholesome, loving father figure on Full House. For many fans, Saget’s portrayal of Danny was so perfect that it’s hard to imagine anyone else filling those shoes. But here’s the twist: Bob Saget wasn’t actually the original choice for the role. Yes, you read that right! Before Bob Saget became the beloved TV dad, other actors were considered for the iconic role of Danny Tanner.
In this article, we’ll dive into the fascinating behind-the-scenes story of how Bob Saget came to embody one of television’s most cherished characters. From the casting process to the surprise twist that led to Saget landing the role, we’ll explore all the details that you might not know about the early days of Full House.
The Surprising Truth: Bob Saget Wasn’t the First Choice for Danny Tanner
It’s easy to imagine Bob Saget as the one and only Danny Tanner, but the journey to casting the role was not as straightforward as you might think. When Full House was being created in the late ’80s, the producers had a specific vision for the family-friendly sitcom. They needed an actor who could balance the seriousness of raising three daughters with the lighthearted comedy that would bring the show’s humor to life.
The Search for the Perfect Danny Tanner
The role of Danny Tanner, a widowed father raising three young daughters, required the actor to bring a combination of warmth, authority, and humor. In the early stages of casting, the producers were looking for someone who could be both loving and authoritative, but they also wanted an actor with a knack for comedy.
Bob Saget, known for his stand-up comedy and more adult material at the time, wasn’t the first name that came to mind for the role of a family man. At first glance, the producers thought Saget might not be the right fit for the wholesome image they were aiming for.
Who Was Considered Before Bob Saget?
Before Bob Saget was cast as Danny Tanner, several other actors were considered for the role. Some of the names may surprise you, as they didn’t quite fit the typical “dad” mold that Full House would later become known for.
One actor who was initially considered for the role was John Posey, an actor best known for his roles in TV dramas. Posey auditioned for the role of Danny Tanner but did not land the part. While he had the right look for a TV dad, Posey’s audition didn’t quite capture the warmth and comedic charm that the producers were hoping for.
Another name that surfaced during the casting process was William R. Moses, who had a background in television drama. Moses was a popular TV actor at the time, and many thought he could bring a level of seriousness to the role that would work well for the show.
Bob Saget’s Unexpected Fit for Danny Tanner
Although Saget wasn’t the obvious choice at first, his audition ultimately won over the Full House producers. After seeing Saget’s audition, they realized that his ability to combine humor and heart was exactly what they needed for the role.
Bob Saget’s comedy background, which included his role as the host of America’s Funniest Home Videos, gave him the comedic timing necessary for Danny Tanner’s quirky humor. But it was Saget’s ability to bring a sense of tenderness and sincerity to the character that made him stand out.
Why Bob Saget Was the Perfect Danny Tanner
So, what made Bob Saget the perfect fit for Danny Tanner? It’s all about balance. The character needed to be a loving father, but also someone who could make viewers laugh. While Full House had its emotional moments, it was also filled with plenty of humorous antics. Saget was able to strike that balance better than anyone else, making Danny Tanner a father figure that resonated with audiences.
Saget’s charm came from his ability to take the character seriously when needed, such as in the heartfelt moments with his daughters, while also embracing the zany comedy that came with raising three young girls in a busy household.
The Chemistry with the Cast That Made Danny Tanner Beloved
One of the standout aspects of Bob Saget’s portrayal of Danny Tanner was his chemistry with the rest of the Full House cast. From the beginning, Saget developed an incredibly strong dynamic with his on-screen family, especially his co-stars John Stamos (Jesse Katsopolis) and Dave Coulier (Joey Gladstone). The trio became a beloved TV family, and their on-screen camaraderie translated into real-life friendships.
The bond Saget shared with the younger cast members—Candace Cameron Bure (DJ Tanner), Jodie Sweetin (Stephanie Tanner), and the Olsen twins (Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen)—was just as important. Saget’s fatherly attitude towards them, both on and off the set, made him a beloved figure for fans of all ages.
The Legacy of Bob Saget as Danny Tanner
A Career-Changing Role for Bob Saget
Landing the role of Danny Tanner was a pivotal moment in Bob Saget’s career. While he had been a successful comedian and actor, Full House catapulted him into the hearts of millions. The show’s success gave him a platform to showcase his comedic talents while also portraying a loving, caring father.
Saget’s role as Danny Tanner helped redefine his career and cemented his place in pop culture history. Fans couldn’t get enough of the sweet, yet hilarious dad, and they watched as his character evolved over the course of the show.
From Full House to Fuller House—Saget’s Return to the Role
After Full House wrapped up in 1995, many fans wondered what would happen to the beloved cast. In 2016, Netflix revived the series with a new generation of Tanner family members in Fuller House. Bob Saget returned to the role of Danny Tanner, along with his co-stars John Stamos and Dave Coulier.
The revival was a hit, and fans rejoiced at seeing Danny Tanner back on their screens. Saget’s return to the role proved that his portrayal of Danny Tanner was timeless, and his character was still just as beloved as ever.
The Impact of Bob Saget’s Danny Tanner on Pop Culture
A Character That Defined Family TV
Danny Tanner’s role on Full House became one of the defining characters in the family sitcom genre. His ability to juggle humor and heart made him the perfect father figure for TV audiences in the ’80s and ’90s. The Full House cast, with Saget at the helm, became a symbol of wholesome family entertainment.
Saget’s portrayal of Danny Tanner made a significant impact on television, and his influence is still felt today. The show’s legacy has inspired countless other family comedies, and Danny Tanner’s character remains a benchmark for portraying the ideal TV dad.
The Role That Touched Hearts and Changed Lives
It’s not just about the laughs—Bob Saget’s portrayal of Danny Tanner touched the lives of many viewers. His genuine love for his daughters, combined with his humorous antics, set a standard for fatherhood in popular culture. For many, Danny Tanner was the father they wished they had, and Saget’s ability to bring that character to life made Full House an unforgettable series.
Conclusion: The Right Role for the Right Actor
While Bob Saget wasn’t the first choice for Danny Tanner, it’s clear that he was the perfect choice. His comedic talent, warmth, and fatherly presence made Danny Tanner a beloved character that still resonates with fans today. Saget’s portrayal of Danny became one of the defining roles of his career and left an indelible mark on television history.
FAQs
- Who was originally considered for Danny Tanner before Bob Saget?
John Posey and William R. Moses were among the actors considered for the role before Bob Saget. - What made Bob Saget the perfect fit for Danny Tanner?
Saget’s ability to blend humor and tenderness allowed him to create a balanced, relatable character. - Did Bob Saget get along with the Full House cast?
Yes! Saget shared a close, familial bond with his co-stars, especially John Stamos and Dave Coulier. - Did Bob Saget return for Fuller House?
Yes, Saget reprised his role as Danny Tanner in the Fuller House reboot, bringing his character back to fans’ screens. - How did Bob Saget impact the role of TV dads?
Saget’s portrayal of Danny Tanner set a standard for TV dads, combining humor, warmth, and a deep love for his family.
