Christine Lakin Shares Behind-the-Scenes Story of Landing ‘Step by Step’ Role
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Back in the early ’90s, child star Christine Lakin found herself on the path to securing a memorable role on the popular TV show, Step by Step. The actress, known for playing the character of “Al” on the hit series that aired from 1991 to 1998, recently opened up about the serendipitous events that led to her being cast in the show.
Lakin, who was only 12 years old at the time, reflected on her journey to landing the role during an episode of the Hey Dude… The 90s Called! podcast. She reminisced about her beginnings as a budding actress in Atlanta, showcasing her talents that included a remarkable ability to memorise dialogue and shed tears on cue.
The pivotal moment came in 1990 when Lakin and her mother travelled to Los Angeles to meet with a manager and create a demo tape for auditions. Little did she know, fate was on her side as executive producer Robert Boyett happened to catch a glimpse of her talent while she was filming her audition tape.
During the podcast, Lakin recounted, “So I did this monologue from [1984 film] Irreconcilable Differences. It’s the one where Drew Barrymore’s on the stand, and she’s divorcing her parents.” Her performance caught the attention of Boyett, who was passing by the set where she was recording her audition.
As luck would have it, this chance encounter proved to be the stepping stone for Lakin to join the cast of Step by Step. After completing the auditions for the show, they had already cast main stars Patrick Duffy and Suzanne Somers, but the role of “Al” remained unfulfilled. It was Boyett who remembered the talented young girl from the demo tape and suggested casting her for the role.
At just 12 years old, Christine Lakin landed the role of Alicia “Al” Lambert, a tomboy character in a blended family setup akin to the Brady Bunch. The show went on to become a beloved classic, and Lakin’s portrayal of Al left a lasting impression on audiences.
Following her stint in front of the camera, Lakin transitioned to roles behind the scenes, working as a choreographer on various shows like True Blood, Westworld, and The Goldbergs before venturing into directing. Her journey from child star to behind-the-scenes talent showcases her versatility and enduring passion for the entertainment industry.
The story of Christine Lakin’s ascent to fame on Step by Step serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of show business, where talent and opportunity can intersect in unexpected ways. Her recounting of the audition process and eventual casting sheds light on the dedication and perseverance required to make it in the competitive world of television.
As fans reminisce about their favourite childhood shows, Christine Lakin’s story serves as an inspiring testament to the power of seizing opportunities and making the most of every chance encounter in the pursuit of one’s dreams.