Bob Saget, known for his warm persona and comedic brilliance, left an indelible mark on American television through his role as Danny Tanner on the beloved series “Full House.” His career, spanning decades, was a blend of family-friendly television, stand-up comedy, and an enduring presence in pop culture. Saget’s journey from his early days in stand-up to becoming a household name is a story of talent, resilience, and versatility.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born on May 17, 1956, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Robert Lane Saget grew up in a Jewish family with a strong sense of humor and storytelling. His father, Benjamin, was a supermarket executive, and his mother, Rosalyn, was a hospital administrator. From a young age, Saget exhibited a natural inclination towards humor, often using comedy as a way to navigate the challenges of growing up.
Saget’s interest in comedy solidified during his teenage years, leading him to pursue a career in stand-up. After graduating from Abington Senior High School, he enrolled at Temple University, where he studied film. It was during his time at Temple that Saget’s comedic voice began to take shape, blending sharp wit with a unique observational style.
Breaking into Comedy and Early Struggles
After graduating from Temple University in 1978, Saget moved to Los Angeles to pursue his dream of becoming a comedian and actor. The comedy scene in LA was vibrant but fiercely competitive, and Saget faced his share of challenges. He performed at various comedy clubs, including the famous Comedy Store, honing his craft while struggling to make a name for himself.
Saget’s early years in comedy were marked by financial difficulties and the uncertainty that comes with trying to break into the entertainment industry. However, his perseverance paid off when he started gaining recognition for his edgy, often dark humor, which contrasted with his later, more wholesome television persona.
Breakthrough with “Full House”
Saget’s big break came in 1987 when he was cast as Danny Tanner in the ABC sitcom “Full House.” The show, which revolved around a widowed father raising his three daughters with the help of his brother-in-law and best friend, became an instant hit. Saget’s portrayal of Danny Tanner, a loving but slightly overprotective father, resonated with audiences and made him a household name.
“Full House” ran for eight seasons from 1987 to 1995 and became a cultural phenomenon, especially among younger viewers. Saget’s character was central to the show’s appeal, embodying the values of family, love, and humor. Despite the show’s wholesome image, Saget continued to perform stand-up comedy, where his material often showcased a much edgier side.
Navigating Dual Identities: The Clean Dad and the Edgy Comic
While “Full House” solidified Saget’s reputation as America’s dad, his stand-up comedy remained a stark contrast to his television persona. Saget was known for his raunchy and often irreverent humor, which surprised many fans who only knew him as the clean-cut Danny Tanner. This dual identity became a hallmark of Saget’s career, as he effortlessly moved between family-friendly television and adult-oriented comedy.
During the “Full House” years, Saget also took on the role of host for “America’s Funniest Home Videos” (1989-1997), where he provided humorous commentary on home videos submitted by viewers. This further cemented his status as a beloved television figure, though it also limited the public’s perception of his comedic range.
Post-“Full House” Career and Continued Success
After “Full House” ended in 1995, Saget continued to explore various opportunities in entertainment. He directed the 1996 television movie “For Hope,” inspired by his sister Gay’s battle with scleroderma, a chronic disease. The film was a deeply personal project for Saget, who used it to raise awareness about the illness.
In 1998, Saget directed the black comedy film “Dirty Work,” starring Norm Macdonald and Artie Lange. The film, known for its irreverent humor, showcased Saget’s willingness to push boundaries and explore different facets of comedy.
Saget also returned to television in 2005 with a recurring role on HBO’s “Entourage,” where he played a parody of himself—a role that allowed him to blend his wholesome image with his edgier comedic style. Additionally, he provided the voice for the future Ted Mosby in the popular sitcom “How I Met Your Mother” (2005-2014), further showcasing his versatility as a performer.
Return to “Full House” with “Fuller House.”
In 2016, Saget reprised his role as Danny Tanner in “Fuller House,” the Netflix sequel to “Full House.” The series, which reunited much of the original cast, was a nostalgic return to the Tanner household, allowing a new generation of viewers to experience the warmth and humor of the original series. Saget’s return was met with enthusiasm from fans, solidifying his legacy as one of television’s most beloved father figures.
Legacy and Final Years
Bob Saget’s career was marked by a unique ability to balance his wholesome television persona with his true love for stand-up comedy. He remained active in the comedy circuit throughout his life, performing to sold-out audiences and continuing to push boundaries with his humor.
Tragically, Bob Saget passed away unexpectedly on January 9, 2022, at the age of 65. His death was met with an outpouring of grief from fans, colleagues, and friends who remembered him not only for his iconic roles but also for his kindness, generosity, and enduring sense of humor.
Bob Saget’s journey from a stand-up comedian in LA to the iconic star of Netflix’s “Full House” is a testament to his talent, versatility, and enduring impact on popular culture. Whether making audiences laugh as Danny Tanner or pushing comedic boundaries on stage, Saget’s legacy is one of laughter, love, and authenticity. His contributions to television and comedy will be remembered for generations, and his influence on the entertainment industry remains profound.