Stacy Keanan and Christine Lakin, former co-stars of the beloved sitcom *Step by Step*, have recently reminisced about their experiences on the show during an episode of their podcast, *Keanan And Lakin Give You Déjà Vu*. This particular discussion focused on a notable 410th episode of the series titled “Letting Go,” which featured Keanan’s character, Dana Foster, suffering from a cold.
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In the podcast episode, released on 15 April, the actresses reflected on the challenges of portraying illness on screen. Keanan, now 50, recalled her struggles with effectively acting sick, frequently having to pretend to sneeze in a convincing manner. She candidly admitted, “I remember not knowing how to do this,” highlighting her lack of formal training on how to portray such scenarios authentically.
Lakin, who played Al Lambert in the show, further probed Keanan’s experience, inquiring whether their co-star Patrick Duffy had assisted her with those on-screen sneezes. Keanan responded, “Probably,” indicating that Duffy had likely shared some of his expertise. “I never knew how to play sick, how to play like you’re all stuffed up. I always had to have a few days to figure it out every time these things came up,” she explained.
Their conversation brought to light an interesting gap in traditional acting education. Lakin remarked, “I mean, it’s not really something that people are teaching you in acting class, but maybe they should,” suggesting that practical techniques such as these could benefit aspiring actors.
Patrick Duffy, who is now 77, portrayed the role of Frank Lambert, the patriarch in the series. The sitcom, which was part of the TGIF lineup, followed the story of two single parents, played by Duffy and Suzanne Somers, as they navigated the complexities of merging their families. Over the course of the show, which featured a total of six children, the comedic twists and turns of family life became a central theme.
In discussions about the possibility of reviving the series, Duffy had previously shared his openness to the idea. In 2014, he noted in a Reddit AMA that both he and Somers would relish the chance to work together again if the right scripts came their way. “We as a cast get approached about the possibility. If scripts and circumstances were appropriate, I’m sure something would happen,” he stated, expressing a willingness to explore new opportunities.
Years later, in 2021, Duffy described Somers as his “best friend,” illustrating the strong bond that has developed between the cast members over the years. “She’s a mother above all else. She’s a caretaker. She’s just one of the best people,” he shared with *Entertainment Tonight*. Duffy expressed the confidence he holds in their friendship, knowing he could reach out to Somers for support whenever needed.
The nostalgic discussions by Keanan and Lakin resonate with many fans who have grown up watching the sitcom, prompting reflections on the series and its impact on their lives. *Step by Step* enjoyed a successful run during the 1990s, leaving an indelible mark on those who followed the trials and tribulations of the Lambert family.
As the actresses continue to delve into their past experiences through their podcast, audiences are reminded not only of their characters but also of the enduring friendships and lessons learned behind the scenes. The fond memories they share serve as a testament to the lasting influence of *Step by Step* and the growth of its stars amid the laughter and challenges of a multi-generational family sitcom.
Listeners of the podcast can expect further insights and anecdotes as Keanan and Lakin explore more episodes from their time on television, blending humour with heartfelt reminiscences that capture the essence of their journey within the entertainment industry.