Full House has earned its place as one of the most beloved family sitcoms in television history. For eight seasons, viewers laughed, cried, and watched as the Tanner family navigated life’s ups and downs. But even the most dedicated fans might not know all of the behind-the-scenes secrets that made the show so iconic. From surprising cast dynamics to hidden references, Full House has a treasure trove of untold stories.
In this article, we’re diving deep into the Full House archives to uncover 25 fascinating secrets about the show. So sit back, relax, and get ready for a nostalgic ride down memory lane.
1. The Show’s Concept Was Based on a Real-Life Idea
Inspired by a Real-Life Family Situation
Did you know that Full House was inspired by a real-life family dilemma? The show’s creator, Jeff Franklin, came up with the idea after hearing about a single dad who had to raise his three daughters. Franklin thought this concept would make for a heartwarming sitcom, and thus, Full House was born!
2. John Stamos Almost Didn’t Play Uncle Jesse
The Perfect Role for the Perfect Actor
John Stamos’s iconic role as Uncle Jesse almost went to another actor! Believe it or not, Full House creators initially considered Tom Hanks for the role. But Stamos, with his charm, good looks, and musical talents, ultimately became the perfect fit for the role—and we’re all better for it!
3. Michelle Tanner Wasn’t Supposed to Be a Twin
One of TV’s Cutest Twists
The character of Michelle Tanner was originally written to be a single child. However, producers decided to cast twin sisters Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen to play the role. This decision led to one of the most memorable and adorable child stars in TV history.
4. Bob Saget Was Not the Original Choice for Danny Tanner
Who Was Almost Danny Tanner?
Before Bob Saget landed the role of Danny Tanner, the part was offered to other actors, including a comedian named John Posey. However, when Posey was replaced with Saget, his comedic style and his ability to blend humor with heartfelt moments made him the perfect dad for the show.
5. The Show Was Almost Called “House of Hearts”
A Different Title, A Different Show?
While we all know Full House as the beloved sitcom we grew up with, the show’s original title was going to be House of Hearts. Luckily, producers decided on a more fitting title, and Full House became the household name we know today.
6. John Stamos Played the Drums in the Theme Song
A Real Musician at the Heart of the Show
That iconic Full House theme song that still plays in our heads? John Stamos didn’t just act in the show—he also contributed to the music. Stamos, who is an accomplished musician, played the drums in the opening theme song. You can hear his skills loud and clear!
7. The Show’s Opening Credits Were Filmed in San Francisco
Touring the Famous Landmarks
While the show was set in San Francisco, many fans didn’t know that the opening credits featuring the Golden Gate Bridge were filmed in the city itself. The iconic shot of the family driving through San Francisco landmarks helped set the tone for this heartwarming show.
8. Candace Cameron Bure’s Hair Was Often a “Topic of Concern”
The Evolution of D.J. Tanner’s Look
Candace Cameron Bure’s hair was constantly evolving throughout the show, and she even had to style it herself during the first season. There were many discussions about her hair’s look for each season, with producers often trying different styles for her character, D.J. Tanner.
9. Lori Loughlin Was Almost Cast as Another Character
Uncle Jesse’s Love Interest
Lori Loughlin, who played Aunt Becky, wasn’t initially cast for the role of Aunt Becky. In fact, she was originally considered for the role of another character, but her chemistry with John Stamos made her the perfect choice to play Uncle Jesse’s love interest.
10. Michelle Tanner’s Catchphrase Was Created By Accident
You Got It, Dude!
The iconic catchphrase “You got it, dude!” was a total accident. The Olsen twins had no idea how popular it would become when they began saying it on set. But fans quickly latched onto the phrase, and it became a signature line for Michelle.
11. Bob Saget Was Actually Much More Outspoken Than Danny Tanner
A Comedian with a Wild Side
In contrast to his sweet and wholesome character, Bob Saget was known for his raunchy humor in real life. In fact, his stand-up comedy routine was much more adult-oriented than his family-friendly role as Danny Tanner!
12. The Show Was Originally Set in the 1980s
A Bit of Time Travel for Full House
Although Full House premiered in 1987, the show was originally conceived as a show set in the 1980s. However, after some tweaking, it ended up reflecting a more universal ‘90s feel. This shift helped keep it relevant as the series continued through the decade.
13. The Tanner House Was Never Real
A Studio Set That Felt Like Home
While the Full House house looks incredibly real, it was actually a carefully constructed set on a soundstage. The house’s exterior shots were filmed at a location in San Francisco, but the interior shots were all created in a studio.
14. Full House Had a Spin-Off: Fuller House
The Legacy Lives On
In 2016, Full House was revived in the form of a spin-off series, Fuller House. Many of the original cast members returned to reprise their roles, bringing the next generation of Tanner kids to the forefront, while also honoring the beloved characters from the original series.
15. The Cast’s Real-Life Friendship Was Genuine
A Family Off-Screen
The cast of Full House wasn’t just a family on-screen—they genuinely became close off-screen too. Bob Saget, John Stamos, and Dave Coulier (Joey) became lifelong friends after working together for so many years, and their camaraderie helped make the show even more special.
16. Jodie Sweetin Wasn’t Allowed to Drive During Filming
Jodie Sweetin’s Full House Restrictions
While her character Stephanie Tanner was often seen driving or sitting in the car, Jodie Sweetin wasn’t allowed to drive during filming due to strict child labor laws. She wasn’t old enough to drive when the show began, so they used a combination of camera angles and stunt drivers to create the illusion.
17. The Show’s Final Episode Was Watched by Over 50 Million People
A Huge Farewell
The final episode of Full House was a massive event, with over 50 million viewers tuning in to watch the Tanner family’s farewell. It was one of the highest-rated TV series finales of its time.
18. The Show’s Creator Was Also Responsible for Other Famous Sitcoms
Jeff Franklin’s Legacy
Jeff Franklin, the creator of Full House, went on to create other successful sitcoms, including The Brady Bunch Hour. His ability to craft family-friendly shows that stood the test of time made him a key figure in TV history.
19. Uncle Jesse Was a Rocker in Real Life
Rocking Out Behind the Scenes
John Stamos’s portrayal of Uncle Jesse as a rocker wasn’t just an act—Stamos is an actual musician! He was an avid guitarist and drummer, and his love for music was a big part of what made Uncle Jesse’s character so believable.
20. Full House Had a Surprise Cameo by the Olsen Twins
The Twins’ Early Appearance
In one of the episodes of Full House, the Olsen twins made a surprise cameo before they were officially cast to play Michelle Tanner. It’s a fun little Easter egg for eagle-eyed fans!
21. The Show’s Writers Drew From Their Own Families
Real-Life Inspiration Behind the Characters
Many of the writers and producers of Full House drew inspiration from their own lives to create the family dynamics on the show. Danny Tanner’s role as a single father raising three kids was something some of the writers could relate to, and they infused their personal experiences into the storytelling.
22. The Show Was Filmed in Front of a Live Audience
A Real-Time Experience
Most episodes of Full House were filmed in front of a live studio audience. This created an authentic atmosphere and allowed the actors to perform in real-time, responding to the audience’s laughter and reactions.
23. D.J. Tanner’s Boyfriend Was Supposed to Be a Different Character
A Different Love Interest for D.J.
D.J. Tanner’s boyfriend, Steve, wasn’t originally going to be her primary love interest. The show’s writers had considered other characters, but they ultimately decided to bring Steve to the forefront, and he became an important part of D.J.’s storyline.
24. Full House Had a Live-Action Movie Adaptation
A Full House Film?
In 1995, Full House was adapted into a live-action film as part of a larger effort to bring popular TV shows to the big screen. However, the movie never became a full-fledged production, and Full House remained primarily a TV show.
25. The Theme Song Was a Last-Minute Decision
A Classic Tune Made in a Flash
The famous theme song, “Everywhere You Look,” almost wasn’t part of the show! It was added as a last-minute decision, and it turned out to be one of the most memorable and iconic opening credits in television history.
Conclusion: A Show That Keeps Giving
Full House is a show that’s so much more than just a nostalgic trip down memory lane—it’s a testament to the power of family, friendship, and love. With these 25 secrets, we hope you’ve gotten a deeper look into the magic that made this show such an enduring classic. So, have mercy and share these fun facts with your fellow fans—because Full House will always have a place in our hearts!
FAQs
1. Was Full House filmed in San Francisco?
While the show was set in San Francisco, the interior scenes were filmed on a studio lot, while exterior shots were taken in the city.
2. Did the cast of Full House stay in touch after the show?
Yes, the cast of Full House remained very close even after the show ended, with many of them sharing personal memories and moments through social media.
3. What was the original concept behind Full House?
Full House was inspired by the idea of a single dad raising his daughters after the loss of his wife. It was designed to be a heartwarming family sitcom.
4. Who sang the Full House theme song?
The theme song was performed by Jesse Frederick, but John Stamos played drums on the track.
5. Did Full House have a spin-off series?
Yes, Full House was followed by Fuller House, which premiered on Netflix in 2016 and continued the story of the Tanner family.
