When you think of Full House, one of the first things that come to mind is the iconic character of Danny Tanner, the lovable single dad played by Bob Saget. But did you know that the character of Danny Tanner wasn’t originally supposed to be played by Saget? In fact, the role of Danny Tanner was recast after the pilot episode, and the reason behind this decision is both surprising and revealing. Let’s dive deep into this little-known part of Full House’s history and explore why this significant change happened.
The Pilot Episode – A Show’s Beginnings
Like most TV shows, Full House began with a pilot episode. The pilot is a critical test run for the series, giving the network and producers a chance to see how the characters and storyline resonate with audiences. In this case, the show had a unique premise: a widowed father, Danny Tanner, raising three daughters with the help of his brother-in-law, Jesse, and his best friend, Joey.
The First Actor to Play Danny Tanner
Originally, Danny Tanner was portrayed by a different actor – a seasoned actor named John Posey. John Posey was cast to play the father role during the pilot episode. However, despite his experience, Posey’s portrayal of Danny was not the right fit for the show’s tone and energy. So what happened? Why didn’t Posey stay on as Danny Tanner after the pilot?
Bob Saget’s Unexpected Involvement
The turning point came when Bob Saget was brought in to replace John Posey after the pilot episode. This decision was based on several factors that we’ll unpack. But first, let’s talk about the magic that Bob Saget brought to the role.
The Bob Saget Effect: Why He Was the Perfect Fit
Bob Saget brought a unique charm, warmth, and wit to Danny Tanner that quickly made him a fan favorite. His comedic timing and the way he balanced humor with heartfelt moments were key reasons why he became synonymous with the role. This wasn’t just about acting – Bob had a special connection with the audience.
But why was this connection so important?
The Role of Comedy in Full House’s Success
At the core of Full House was its blend of family values, heartwarming moments, and comedy. Saget’s ability to combine humor with sincerity was essential for making the show work. Danny Tanner had to be a likable, relatable father figure, but he also had to provide comedic relief. This was a fine line to walk, and Bob Saget nailed it.
When John Posey was cast in the pilot, he played Danny with a more traditional, straightforward approach. While this might have worked in a different setting, it didn’t quite match the tone of Full House. Saget’s presence on-screen brought a whole new dynamic, making Danny both lovable and funny, which was crucial for the show’s success.
Why John Posey Was Recast: Behind the Scenes Drama
So, what really happened behind the scenes? There are several factors that led to Posey being replaced, but perhaps the most significant was the network’s vision for the show. The producers realized that the show’s tone needed a shift to match the evolving dynamics of TV sitcoms in the late 1980s.
An Inconsistent Character Vision
When the pilot was filmed, the direction for Danny Tanner’s character wasn’t fully refined. Posey’s portrayal was a bit too stiff for what the producers had in mind. They wanted Danny to be funnier, more relatable, and slightly less formal. Bob Saget had a unique ability to bring that warmth and humor to the character in a way Posey just couldn’t. It wasn’t that Posey was a bad actor – he simply didn’t fit the new vision for the show.
Bob Saget’s Growing Popularity
When the decision was made to recast the role, Bob Saget had already made a name for himself in comedy. His background in stand-up comedy and his experience hosting America’s Funniest Home Videos were assets that played into the producers’ decision to bring him in as the permanent Danny Tanner. His comedic chops helped elevate Full House from a simple family sitcom to a household name.
How Did the Cast React to the Change?
A big part of the success of Full House was the chemistry between the actors. After Bob Saget joined the cast, the dynamics between him and the other stars, like John Stamos (Jesse) and Dave Coulier (Joey), clicked instantly. The group quickly became a tight-knit family both on and off the screen.
However, this major casting change did create some awkward moments at first. John Posey had already filmed a full pilot, and there were questions about how the cast would adjust to a new actor stepping into such an important role. Luckily, the transition was smooth, and the rest of the cast embraced Bob Saget as their new “dad.”
What Impact Did the Recasting Have on Full House’s Future?
The decision to recast Danny Tanner after the pilot episode was ultimately a pivotal moment in Full House’s journey. Once Bob Saget was on board, the show’s tone solidified, and its iconic status began to take shape. The series went on to become a cultural phenomenon that captured the hearts of millions.
The Unseen Influence on TV Sitcoms
Full House set a new standard for family sitcoms, and Danny Tanner became the archetype of the quirky, loving father. The success of the show helped cement Bob Saget’s career as a comedian, and the show paved the way for future family comedies like Step by Step and The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.
Behind the Scenes: What Would Have Happened if John Posey Stayed?
It’s impossible to say what Full House would have been like if John Posey had remained in the role of Danny Tanner. Would it have been as successful? Would the chemistry between the cast have been the same? Given how iconic Bob Saget’s portrayal became, it’s hard to imagine anyone else playing Danny Tanner.
The Lasting Legacy of Full House
Full House still holds a special place in pop culture, even decades after its original run. The show’s success was undeniably tied to Bob Saget’s portrayal of Danny Tanner. His comedic sensibility and heart made him the perfect father figure for America’s TV screens. The show’s enduring legacy is a testament to the importance of casting decisions, and how one small change can alter the entire trajectory of a TV show.
Conclusion: The Power of Recasting
The decision to recast Danny Tanner after the pilot episode of Full House was a bold and surprising one. While it may have seemed like a risk at the time, it was the right move for the show. Bob Saget’s unique ability to combine humor and warmth breathed new life into the character, and ultimately helped turn Full House into the beloved sitcom we know today.
Sometimes, the smallest changes behind the scenes can have the biggest impact on a show’s success. In this case, the recasting of Danny Tanner changed Full House forever – and we’re all the better for it.
FAQs
1. Why was Danny Tanner originally recast? The original actor, John Posey, didn’t match the vision the producers had for the character. Bob Saget’s comedic timing and ability to blend humor with sincerity made him a better fit.
2. How did the recasting affect the show’s success? The recasting of Danny Tanner played a crucial role in shaping the show’s tone, helping Full House balance humor and heart. Bob Saget’s performance became iconic, which contributed to the show’s enduring popularity.
3. What was the main difference between John Posey and Bob Saget’s portrayal of Danny Tanner? John Posey played Danny as more formal and less humorous, while Bob Saget brought a lighter, more comedic energy to the role, which resonated better with audiences.
4. Was the decision to recast Danny Tanner controversial? At the time, the recasting may have been seen as a bold decision, but in retrospect, it was the right choice for the show. Bob Saget’s portrayal became integral to the show’s success.
5. Did Bob Saget’s career benefit from being cast in Full House? Absolutely! Bob Saget’s role as Danny Tanner helped solidify his place in pop culture and led to other opportunities, including hosting America’s Funniest Home Videos and becoming a well-known stand-up comedian.
