Remembering the Life and Legacy of “America’s Dad”

Bob+Saget

WGHP FOX8

Bob Saget, middle, was affectionally called “America’s Dad” for his role as Danny Tanner in the sitcom “Full House.”

Bailey Darbro, Jr. Editor

Bob Saget, the actor and comedian who played beloved single dad Danny Tanner on the sitcom “Full House,” has died at the age of 65. According to the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, Saget was found unresponsive in a hotel room at the Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes on January 9, 2022. He was in Florida performing a show for his comedy tour.

The death of “America’s Dad” came as a shock to his fans and friends alike. Fellow actors and comedians praised Saget not only for his talent and wit but also for his compassionate and kind-hearted nature. 

“I am broken. I am gutted. I am in complete and utter shock. I will never ever have another friend like him. I love you so much Bobby.” – John Stamos

“I don’t even know what to say about Bob Saget. I loved him and was so lucky to work with someone so funny, soulful, and kind. His role on HIMYM was a voice in the future, looking back on all of life’s complexity with a smile, and that’s how I’ll always remember him.” – “How I Met Your Mother” co-creator Craig Thomas

“I have no words. Bob was one of the best human beings I’ve ever known in my life. I loved him so much.” – Candace Cameron Bure

“Bob was the most loving, compassionate, and generous man. We are deeply saddened that he is no longer with us but know that he will continue to be by our side to guide us as gracefully as he always has.” – Ashley and Mary-Kate Olsen

Saget starred as the widowed father of three girls on ABC’s “Full House” and then as the host of the network’s “America’s Funniest Home Videos.” On “Full House,” Saget shared his house with his three daughters (Candace Cameron Bure, Jodi Sweetin, and, alternating as the youngest daughter, Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen), his brother-in-law (John Stamos), and his best friend (Dave Coulier). The show ran for eight seasons (1987-1995) and earned consistently high ratings while making stars of Saget and his fellow cast members. 

The star went on to be the narrator and the voice of future Ted Mosby on CBS’s “How I Met Your Mother,” which ran from 2005 to 2014. Throughout the years, he remained a prominent figure in stand-up comedy, releasing multiple specials over the years and taking his show on the road. 

Saget will always be remembered as the wholesome parent who ended each “Full House” episode by imparting a moral lesson to one of his three daughters alongside a warm hug. “America’s Dad” offered his daughters support and reassurance through the twists and turns of childhood and adolescence.