Bob Saget is a name that has become synonymous with humor, wit, and all-around comedic brilliance. With a career spanning over four decades, Saget has captured the hearts and funny bones of audiences worldwide. From his early days as a stand-up comedian to his iconic roles on popular TV shows, Bob Saget has solidified himself as one of the greatest comedians of our time.
In this article, we will take a deep dive into the life and career of Bob Saget. We will explore his rise to fame, iconic roles, personal life, and impact on the comedy world.
The Early Years of Bob Saget
From Stand-Up Comedy to Television Stardom
Robert Lane Saget was born on May 17, 1956, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Growing up, Saget always had a passion for comedy and entertainment. He began performing stand-up comedy at the age of 17 and eventually moved to Los Angeles to pursue his dreams.
Saget’s early years in the comedy scene were not easy. He struggled to make a name for himself and often performed in small clubs and venues. However, his hard work and dedication paid off when he landed a spot as the host of the talent competition show “The Big Spin” in 1985.
This opportunity opened doors for Saget and led to his big break as a cast member on the popular sitcom “Full House.” The role of Danny Tanner would change his life and catapult him to stardom.
The Iconic Role of Danny Tanner
“Full House” premiered in 1987 and became an instant hit with audiences of all ages. Bob Saget’s portrayal of the lovable and quirky single father, Danny Tanner, quickly made him a household name.
The show followed the daily lives of Danny and his three daughters, played by Candace Cameron Bure, Jodie Sweetin, and Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen. Saget’s character was known for his clean-cut and wholesome ways, often providing valuable life lessons to his children and their friends.
The success of “Full House” was attributed in part to Bob Saget’s comedic timing and delivery. His ability to balance humor with heartfelt moments resonated with viewers and helped make the show a fan favorite. The show ran for eight seasons and is still beloved by fans today.
The Rise of Bob Saget in Hollywood
Following the success of “Full House,” Bob Saget became a sought-after actor and comedian in Hollywood. He hosted popular shows such as “America’s Funniest Home Videos,” where he showcased his wit and charm to a broader audience.
Saget also continued to perform stand-up comedy, further solidifying himself as a comedic genius. He released two stand-up specials, “That Ain’t Right” and “Zero to Sixty,” which were both critically acclaimed. His unique blend of observational humor and offbeat jokes set him apart from other comedians and cemented his place in the industry.
Breaking Away from the Clean-Cut Image
Raunchy Comedy and Controversial Roles
Despite his wholesome image on “Full House,” Bob Saget has never shied away from pushing boundaries and experimenting with different types of comedy. In the early 2000s, he shocked audiences with his raunchy and explicit stand-up routines, which were a far cry from his role as Danny Tanner.
Saget’s no-holds-barred style of comedy earned him critical acclaim but also sparked controversy. Some fans were taken aback by his crude and provocative jokes, while others embraced this edgier side of him. Saget himself has stated that he enjoys exploring different types of humor and does not want to be pigeonholed into one role or persona.
“Entourage” and “How I Met Your Mother”
In the mid-2000s, Bob Saget took on two recurring roles on popular TV shows that further solidified his versatility as an actor. He played a fictional version of himself on the hit HBO series “Entourage,” where he showcased his comedic talents alongside the likes of Jeremy Piven and Kevin Connolly.
Saget also joined the cast of “How I Met Your Mother” in 2005, playing the older version of the main character Ted Mosby (played by Josh Radnor). His appearances on the show were met with critical acclaim, and fans loved seeing him in a more mature and serious role.
Directing and Producing
In addition to acting and stand-up comedy, Bob Saget has also dabbled in directing and producing. He directed two episodes of “Full House” and went on to produce and direct the cult-favorite movie “Dirty Work.” Despite mixed reviews, the film has become a cult classic and showcases Saget’s talent behind the camera.
He has also produced several comedy specials, including “Jamie Kennedy: Unwashed,” “Norm Macdonald: Me Doing Stand-Up,” and “Jim Gaffigan: Mr. Universe.” Saget’s involvement in these projects showcases his passion for the comedy industry and his willingness to support and mentor other comedians.
The Personal Life of Bob Saget
Family and Relationships
Bob Saget was a private person when it comes to his personal life, but here’s what we know about his family and relationships. He was first married to Sherri Kramer from 1982 to 1997, and they have three daughters together.
In 2018, Saget married TV correspondent Kelly Rizzo in a private ceremony. The couple had been dating since 2015 and regularly shares glimpses of their happy marriage on social media.
Philanthropy and Charity Work
Bob Saget wasn’t just a talented comedian and actor; he is also known for his philanthropic efforts and support for various charities. He has been a longtime supporter of the Scleroderma Research Foundation, which raises awareness and funds for research to find a cure for the disease.
Saget has also hosted several charity events, including “Cool Comedy – Hot Cuisine” with fellow comedian Paul Reiser. The event raises funds for the Scleroderma Research Foundation and other organizations that support people with the disease.
The Impact of Bob Saget on the Comedy World
Throughout his career, Bob Saget has left an indelible mark on the comedy world. His unique blend of clean-cut and edgy humor has inspired countless comedians and has paved the way for future generations of comedic performers.
Furthermore, Saget’s versatility as an actor and willingness to take on unconventional roles has inspired others to break away from stereotypes and push boundaries. His impact on the industry continues to be felt, and he remains a respected and admired figure in the world of entertainment.
Bob Saget: Filmography
| Year | Title | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1992 | Farce of the Penguins | Carl Penguin/Sagan Penguin |
| 1998 | Half Baked | Cocaine-Addicted “Rehab Bob” |
| 2000 | Dirty Work | Director/Producer |
| 2003 | Dumb and Dumberer: When Harry Met Lloyd | Jessica’s Dad |
| 2005 | Madagascar | Zoo Animal |
| 2007 | The Aristocrats | Himself |
| 2010 | Surviving Suburbia | Steve Patterson |
| 2015 | Entourage | Himself |
| 2019 | Benjamin | Himself |
Bob Saget: Awards and Nominations
Throughout his career, Bob Saget has received numerous awards and nominations for his work in the entertainment industry. Here are some of his most notable accolades:
- Golden Raspberry Award for Worst Supporting Actor in “Half Baked” (1998)
- TV Guide Award for Favorite Comeback in “Entourage” (2006)
- Webby Award for Best Comedy Video for “This Party Took a Turn for the Douche” (2010)
- Streamy Award for Best Ensemble Cast in “Roast of Bob Saget” (2008)
Death of Bob Saget
Bob Saget died on January 9, 2022, at the age of 65. He was found lifeless in his hotel room in Florida, shortly after giving a stand-up comedy performance. The cause of death was attributed to accidental head trauma, caused by a fall at the hotel.
Many fans and colleagues expressed condolences at his passing, recalling his comedic talent, his kindness and his ability to make people laugh. Saget has been an icon for several decades, thanks to roles such as Danny Tanner on Full House and his trademark humor.
