Paul Reiser Was Once Considered for Bob Saget’s “Full House ”Role

The beloved sitcom “Full House” is synonymous with the character of Danny Tanner, played by the late Bob Saget. However, few are aware that the pilot episode of the series was initially filmed with a different actor in the role. John Posey, who was scouted by an ABC executive while performing in Atlanta, took on the character before Saget became available.

In a recent appearance on the digital series “Taboo’s Comics & Kicks,” actress Jodie Sweetin, who portrayed Stephanie Tanner on the show, shared insights about the show’s original pilot. She noted that they had already completed filming with Posey as Danny Tanner while Saget was occupied with commitments for CBS’s “The Morning Program.”

Sweetin spoke fondly of Posey, describing him as “a lovely human being” who was kind and supportive during the filming of the pilot. She also confirmed that Saget had always been the network’s primary choice for the role, but his schedule initially did not allow him to participate.

Posey first opened up about his experience transitioning from an unknown actor to a lead in a major sitcom several years ago in an interview. He recounted how his casting came about, discovering he was chosen after ABC executives had difficulty finding the right fit. “They were looking all over the country for people and couldn’t find a guy,” Posey explained. The actor mentioned that he was thrilled to be the choice after Saget and Paul Reiser, who were the initial contenders for the role, were unavailable due to other projects.

Remarkably, Posey had no idea that Saget and Reiser had been considered prior to his appointment until after filming wrapped. “I was in Mississippi when I was informed of the change,” he recalled. It’s a clear indication of how unpredictable the world of television casting can be. With excitement ahead, he left Mississippi for what he believed would be the next big break in his career. However, the situation changed after filming concluded, leading to a surprising phone call that would upend his expectations.

The phone call came when Posey was informed by his agent that Bob Saget was being tested for the role. “I don’t know what’s going on, but for some reason, they’re testing Bob Saget,” he relayed, utterly perplexed by the turn of events. Just when it seemed routine to settle back into the role he had just completed, Posey learned that Saget’s schedule had changed, leading producers to reconsider their original casting choice.

The serendipitous nature of Saget’s availability ultimately shifted the landscape for the show. “I guess something opened up for him, maybe he was fired from something, and suddenly he was available,” Posey speculated, highlighting the unpredictable nature of casting in the entertainment industry. With this newfound opportunity, Saget went on to shoot the pilot, cementing his status as one of the most beloved TV fathers in sitcom history.

Reflecting on the rapid changes, Posey expressed bemusement at the abrupt switch from established stand-up comedians to himself. “How you go from those guys to me is kind of a mystery,” he shared, acknowledging the stark contrast between his own comedic style and that of Reiser and Saget. Despite the unexpected nature of his departure from the show, Posey has reminisced fondly about his time on set and the remarkable connections he made.

Years later, the legacy of “Full House” endures, highlighted by warm recollections and behind-the-scenes anecdotes. The series not only produced a wave of laughter and sentimental moments for audiences but also sparked discussions on the intricate process that goes into casting a show. As the public continues to celebrate the life and career of Bob Saget, the alternate timeline of John Posey serves as a fascinating glimpse into the behind-the-scenes machinations of television.