In 1987, Full House burst onto the TV scene and quickly became a sensation. However, early on, John Stamos, who played the role of Jesse Katsopolis, had reservations about his involvement in the show. During the podcast Full House Rewind, creator Jeff Franklin and co-star Dave Coulier reminisced about the show’s beginnings.
John Stamos Doubted Working With Kids
Franklin and Coulier recalled how a young Jodie Sweetin stole the spotlight during the first table read. Stamos was taken aback by her talent, expressing concern that the entire show would revolve around her performance. In fact, Stamos was so disheartened by the prospect of playing second fiddle to the young actors that he contemplated quitting the show. He confided in his agent, expressing his belief that being overshadowed by kids was a mistake.
Despite his initial doubts, John Stamos ultimately decided to remain in the role of Uncle Jesse throughout Full House’s successful eight-season run from 1987 to 1995. The show not only solidified his status as a TV star but also launched the entire cast, including Candace Cameron Bure, Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, Andrea Barber, Scott Weinger, Lori Loughlin, and the late Bob Saget, into stardom.
Stamos and Sweetin Are Still Friends
The show’s popularity persisted, leading to a sequel series titled Fuller House, which aired on Netflix from 2016 to 2020. Stamos was an integral part of the revival, demonstrating his enduring bond with the rest of the Full House cast. Reflecting on his early impressions, he candidly admitted to underestimating the Olsen twins, who played the role of Michelle Tanner. Initially, he was vocal about his preference for different actors, but eventually realized the twins’ potential and sought to bring them back.
As the years passed, John Stamos came to cherish his connection with the show and its enduring impact. In 2022, during the 35th anniversary of Full House, he acknowledged that the show exceeded all expectations and grew more significant with time. Initially attempting to distance himself from the series after its conclusion, he later embraced it and reveled in the love he received from fans.