Christine Lakin was on the verge of joining the Tanner clan once again, but fate had other plans. In a recent episode of the “How Rude, Tanneritos!” podcast, the actress known for her role on “Step by Step” spilled the beans on why her cameo in “Fuller House” never came to be.
Lakin revealed to podcast hosts and “Fuller House” stars Jodie Sweetin and Andrea Barber that she was initially cast as C.J. Harbenberger, Steve Hale’s girlfriend, for a four-episode arc in the second season of the hit reboot. The role was ultimately filled by Lakin’s friend, Virginia Williams. The casting shake-up happened just days before the table read, which was supposed to be the final step before shooting began.
A Disappointing Turn of Events
Two days before the table read, Lakin received a jarring phone call from her manager. “They’re pushing the table read back,” Lakin’s manager said, citing some last-minute script rewrites. But then the next day, the news went from bad to worse: “Hey, I don’t know how to tell you this, but you’ve been let go.” Lakin was left in the dark about the specifics of her dismissal. Her manager could only share that the character had been rewritten, and they no longer needed her for the role.
“I was like, ‘What did I do wrong?’” Lakin recalled. She hadn’t even made it to the table read, and the abruptness of the firing left her stunned and confused.
Speculations and Satire
While the exact reasons behind her exit remain unclear, Lakin has her suspicions. She believes that a Funny or Die parody she appeared in might have been a contributing factor. The 2012 satire, titled “CCOKC - Child Celebrities Opposing Kirk Cameron,” was a humorous take on actor Kirk Cameron’s controversial remarks about the LGBTQ community.
Cameron, known for his outspoken views, had made statements that many felt were harmful to the LGBTQ community. Lakin, along with other former child stars, joined the parody to poke fun at Cameron’s remarks. “At the time, Kirk Cameron had said some public things about the LGBTQ community, and I thought those were potentially very damaging,” Lakin explained. “It was funny. It was a satire.” Cameron is the older brother of Candace Cameron Bure, who played D.J. Tanner on “Fuller House.”
The Ripple Effect
Reflecting on the situation, Lakin speculated that the parody might have created some “bad blood,” which could have influenced the decision-makers behind “Fuller House.” “All I can think of is that it created some bad blood. And (four) years later, my presence was not wanted,” she said. The whole ordeal was a “bummer” for Lakin, who had been excited about the possibility of returning to a beloved franchise.
Standing Up and Moving On
Despite the disappointment, Lakin remains steadfast in her principles. “I’m sure it’s everybody’s prerogative to want or not want to work with someone,” she concluded. “At the same time, I feel like I have to stand up for people who maybe don’t have a platform or a voice, or at least be able to say, ‘I stand with you.’”
The episode of “How Rude, Tanneritos!” not only provided an inside look into Lakin’s unexpected departure from “Fuller House” but also shed light on the challenges and unexpected hurdles that come with the entertainment industry. As Lakin continues to navigate her career, her commitment to standing up for her beliefs remains a cornerstone of her journey.
The Bigger Picture
Lakin’s story is a poignant reminder of how complex and unpredictable the world of television can be. The entertainment industry is often rife with behind-the-scenes drama and unforeseen changes that can drastically alter an actor’s career trajectory. For Lakin, the opportunity to be part of “Fuller House” slipped through her fingers, but her candidness about the experience offers valuable insight into the often opaque decision-making processes in Hollywood.
While Lakin’s exit from “Fuller House” was undoubtedly a setback, her unwavering commitment to her principles and her willingness to share her story highlight her resilience and integrity. It’s a testament to the fact that even in the face of disappointment, staying true to oneself and one’s values can make all the difference.
As for “Fuller House,” it went on without Lakin, and fans were introduced to Virginia Williams as C.J. Harbenberger. The reboot continued to enjoy success, drawing in viewers nostalgic for the original “Full House” while also attracting a new generation of fans.
Final Thoughts
Christine Lakin’s experience is a fascinating glimpse into the challenges and unpredictability of the entertainment world. Whether it’s dealing with sudden casting changes or navigating personal and professional relationships, actors often face hurdles that are not always visible to the public. Lakin’s story serves as a reminder of the complexities behind the scenes and the importance of staying true to one’s beliefs in an ever-changing industry.
In the end, Lakin’s journey underscores the resilience required to thrive in Hollywood and the courage needed to stand up for what one believes in. Her candid revelations provide a deeper understanding of the industry’s inner workings and offer a glimpse into the personal and professional challenges that come with it.
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