When we think of Full House, we picture the lovable Tanner family, with all its ups and downs, hilarious moments, and heartwarming scenes. But behind the scenes, things weren’t always as smooth as they appeared on TV. One of the most surprising revelations comes from none other than John Stamos, the beloved Uncle Jesse, who admits he once had the Olsen twins—Mary-Kate and Ashley—fired from the show. At just 11 months old, the twins were part of the cast, and what transpired behind the scenes will shock you!
The Early Days of Full House: A Show Packed with Surprises
In 1987, Full House debuted, creating a massive fan base and making the Tanner family a household name. The sitcom featured a perfect blend of humor, family dynamics, and life lessons. Of course, at the heart of the show was Danny Tanner (Bob Saget), his brother-in-law Jesse (John Stamos), and their friend Joey (Dave Coulier), who took on the responsibility of raising three young girls after the death of Danny’s wife.
One of those young girls, Michelle Tanner, was played by the Olsen twins. However, their journey to stardom wasn’t as smooth as we might imagine.
The Shocking Admission: John Stamos’ Regretful Decision
In a candid interview, John Stamos opened up about a decision he deeply regrets—getting the Olsen twins fired from the show at just 11 months old! According to Stamos, the twins were difficult to work with, primarily because they would cry constantly on set. The twins’ crying was so disruptive that, at one point, Stamos believed their presence was negatively affecting the show’s filming.
He candidly shared how the production team was on edge, dealing with two babies who couldn’t stop crying. The twins’ challenges on set led Stamos to ask producers if they could be replaced with other babies who would be less disruptive.
The Heartfelt Change of Heart: Stamos’ Apology and the Twins’ Return
However, just a few days after making this tough decision, Stamos had a change of heart. Reflecting on his actions, he realized that firing 11-month-old babies from a show wasn’t the right course of action. Despite the frustration on set, Stamos recognized that the twins were simply infants, and crying was a natural part of their development.
He soon apologized for his rash decision, and the Olsen twins were brought back into the show. This change of heart ultimately worked out for everyone, as the twins went on to become global superstars, playing Michelle Tanner for the entire run of the show and beyond.
The Trials of Working with Infants: A Behind-the-Scenes Challenge
Filming with babies is no easy task. TV shows and movies that feature young children often face major challenges, especially when the child actors are infants. The Olsen twins were one of the many child stars that Full House had to work with.
In most cases, the twins were filmed in small snippets, with one baby used at a time while the other was off-set. Babies are known for being unpredictable—one moment they might be giggling, and the next, they’re crying for no apparent reason. For a show like Full House, which relied on tight schedules and smooth production, these unpredictable moments could be incredibly challenging to manage.
Stamos’ Unique Relationship with the Olsen Twins
John Stamos and the Olsen twins shared a unique bond throughout the years. As a major figure on the show, Stamos took on a protective role for the young actresses. He often became like an older brother figure to them, offering advice and guidance. Over time, they grew close, with Stamos watching them evolve from babies into talented young women.
In interviews, Stamos has spoken fondly about the twins and their remarkable career. Despite the early tension, the relationship between Stamos and the Olsen twins flourished, and the three remained close throughout the years.
The Real Reason Behind the Crying: More Than Just Baby Tears
While Stamos initially believed that the twins’ crying was a mere inconvenience, the reality of infant behavior is much more complex. At 11 months old, babies are learning to navigate the world, and they often express discomfort, hunger, or overstimulation through crying. The twins’ behavior on set was likely no different, and Stamos later realized this.
The Importance of Baby Actors in TV Shows and Movies
Having babies in TV shows or movies is not only a logistical challenge but also a creative decision. Characters like Michelle Tanner add a layer of cuteness and charm to the show. Michelle’s innocence, humor, and adorable antics became a defining feature of the series.
Though babies on set can be unpredictable, their presence can contribute to the show’s success. Full House capitalized on Michelle’s role as the lovable toddler, and the show’s portrayal of family dynamics wouldn’t have been the same without her.
The Legacy of Michelle Tanner: From Baby to Cultural Icon
As time went on, Michelle Tanner grew from a baby into one of the most beloved TV characters. With the help of the Olsen twins, Michelle captured the hearts of audiences worldwide.
The twins eventually went on to have successful careers, with the iconic Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen brand being a household name. Their journey began with Full House, but it continued far beyond that, leading to major business ventures and a legacy that has lasted for decades.
The Impact of Full House on the Olsen Twins’ Career
“Full House” was a launching pad for the Olsen twins’ entertainment careers. From their start as Michelle Tanner, the twins grew into successful entrepreneurs and fashion moguls. Their company, The Row, became famous for its luxury fashion, and they became influential figures in the world of business.
The twins also starred in many films, becoming two of the most recognizable faces in Hollywood in the 90s and early 2000s. Today, they remain beloved by fans who grew up with them.
John Stamos’ Role in Full House: Beyond the Actor
John Stamos’ role as Jesse Katsopolis is more than just an acting job—it’s part of his legacy. Stamos is an iconic figure in pop culture, and his portrayal of Uncle Jesse is one of the most loved characters in television history.
Over the years, Stamos has continued to make headlines, from his time in music to his ongoing acting career. His experiences on Full House, especially with the Olsen twins, shaped his life and career in ways that still resonate today.
Full House’s Lasting Impact: A Show for the Ages
After running for eight seasons, Full House left a significant mark on television history. Its themes of family, friendship, and unconditional love are timeless, and the show’s lessons still apply to today’s generation.
The legacy of Michelle Tanner, the Olsen twins, and the entire cast continues to be celebrated through the show’s spin-off, Fuller House, which brought many of the original cast members back together.
Conclusion: A Heartwarming Full House Story with a Powerful Lesson
John Stamos’ admission about getting the Olsen twins fired is a surprising twist in the history of Full House. Yet, this story teaches us an important lesson: Even the best intentions can sometimes lead to mistakes, but it’s never too late to make things right. The Olsen twins’ journey from being on the verge of being fired to becoming international superstars proves that sometimes setbacks can lead to the greatest successes.
Full House will forever be remembered as a show that brought together families and hearts, with unforgettable moments and enduring relationships. John Stamos’ relationship with the Olsen twins serves as a reminder of the complexity of show business and the bond that formed between them despite the rough start.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why were the Olsen twins fired from Full House?
John Stamos admits that he got the twins fired due to their constant crying on set. The production team was struggling to manage the babies’ unpredictable behavior.
2. Did John Stamos regret firing the Olsen twins?
Yes! Stamos had a change of heart just days after making the decision, realizing it was a mistake to fire the infants.
3. How did the Olsen twins’ roles in Full House impact their careers?
Their roles as Michelle Tanner catapulted them to fame, leading to successful ventures in acting, business, and fashion.
4. What other projects did the Olsen twins work on after Full House?
After Full House, the twins starred in several movies and TV shows, eventually starting their fashion brand, The Row.
5. How did John Stamos’ relationship with the Olsen twins evolve?
Over the years, Stamos developed a close, almost sibling-like relationship with the twins, mentoring them throughout their careers.
