It’s hard to imagine anyone other than Bob Saget playing the lovable, quirky father Danny Tanner on Full House. However, the role was originally portrayed by John Posey in the unaired pilot episode. So, what happened? Why was Danny Tanner recast after the pilot?
The Original Pilot and John Posey’s Casting
In the early stages of Full House, the show’s creators envisioned a different version of the series. Initially, the show was intended to be called House of Comics, focusing on three single stand-up comedians living together. However, this concept evolved into the family-centric sitcom we know today .
During the casting process, the producers had a clear vision for the role of Danny Tanner. They initially sought out Bob Saget, known for his stand-up comedy and previous work on The Morning Program with CBS. Unfortunately, Saget was under contract and unavailable for the role. As a result, the producers turned to John Posey, an actor with a background in theater and television, to portray Danny Tanner in the pilot episode.
Bob Saget’s Availability and the Recasting Decision
Shortly after the pilot was filmed, The Morning Program was canceled, freeing up Bob Saget’s schedule. Recognizing the opportunity, the producers decided to recast the role of Danny Tanner with Saget, who was their original first choice for the character .
This decision led to the replacement of John Posey, despite his performance in the pilot. Posey expressed his surprise and disappointment upon learning that he was being replaced, noting that he had not been informed of any issues with his portrayal of the character .
The Impact of Recasting on the Show
The recasting of Danny Tanner had significant implications for the show’s dynamic. The chemistry between the cast members was altered, and the tone of the series shifted with Saget’s portrayal of the character. Fans of the show became accustomed to Saget’s interpretation of Danny Tanner, making it difficult to imagine anyone else in the role.
Despite the initial challenges posed by the recasting, Full House went on to become a beloved sitcom, running for eight seasons and gaining a dedicated fan base. The show’s success led to the creation of the sequel series, Fuller House, which continued the story of the Tanner family.
John Posey’s Career After Full House
While John Posey did not continue with Full House, he found success in other acting roles. He appeared in various television series and films, including guest spots on shows like Seinfeld and Cheers. Posey also had a recurring role on How to Get Away with Murder and starred in the MTV series Teen Wolf, where he worked alongside his son, Tyler Posey .
Bob Saget’s Legacy as Danny Tanner
Bob Saget’s portrayal of Danny Tanner became iconic, earning him a place in television history. His performance resonated with audiences, and he became synonymous with the character. Saget’s comedic timing and heartfelt delivery brought depth to the role, making Danny Tanner a memorable and beloved figure in the world of sitcoms.
Behind-the-Scenes Insights from the Cast
The cast of Full House has shared their experiences regarding the recasting of Danny Tanner. Jodie Sweetin, who played Stephanie Tanner, recalled the initial filming with John Posey and the subsequent transition to working with Bob Saget. Sweetin noted the challenges and adjustments that came with the change but emphasized the professionalism of all involved .
The Evolution of Full House and Its Characters
The recasting of Danny Tanner was just one of many changes that occurred during the development of Full House. The show underwent several transformations before settling into the format that audiences came to know and love. These changes included adjustments to character dynamics, storylines, and the overall tone of the series.
Fan Reactions to the Recasting
Fans of Full House have expressed mixed reactions to the recasting of Danny Tanner. Some viewers were initially taken aback by the change, while others embraced Bob Saget’s portrayal of the character. Over time, Saget’s interpretation of Danny Tanner became the definitive version for many fans.
The Enduring Popularity of Full House
Despite the behind-the-scenes changes and challenges, Full House remains a beloved series. The show’s themes of family, love, and togetherness continue to resonate with audiences, and its characters have become cultural icons. The success of Full House paved the way for its sequel series, Fuller House, which introduced the next generation of the Tanner family to a new audience.
Lessons Learned from the Recasting
The recasting of Danny Tanner serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the entertainment industry. Decisions made during the development of a show can have lasting impacts on its success and the careers of those involved. The experience also highlights the importance of adaptability and resilience in the face of change.
Conclusion: A New Era for Danny Tanner
The recasting of Danny Tanner was a pivotal moment in the history of Full House. While the change was unexpected and challenging for those involved, it ultimately contributed to the show’s success. Bob Saget’s portrayal of Danny Tanner became an integral part of the series, and his legacy continues to influence the world of television.
FAQs
1. Why was Danny Tanner recast in Full House?
Danny Tanner was recast due to Bob Saget’s availability after his previous project, The Morning Program, was canceled. The producers decided to replace John Posey with Saget, who was their original first choice for the role.
2. Who played Danny Tanner in the original pilot?
John Posey portrayed Danny Tanner in the unaired pilot episode of Full House.
3. How did the cast react to the recasting of Danny Tanner?
The cast had mixed reactions to the recasting. Jodie Sweetin, who played Stephanie Tanner, recalled the initial filming with John Posey and the subsequent transition to working with Bob Saget, emphasizing the professionalism of all involved.
4. Did John Posey continue acting after Full House?
Yes, John Posey continued his acting career after Full House, appearing in various television series and films, including guest spots
