For fans curious about the real lives of Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen as child stars, a recent podcast episode offers a fascinating glimpse. The iconic twins, who shared the role of Michelle Tanner on the beloved sitcom Full House for eight seasons, had surprisingly different attitudes toward their work.
The Podcast Revelation
In a November 20 episode of the How Rude, Tanneritos podcast, former co-stars Jodie Sweetin and Andrea Barber pulled back the curtain on life behind the scenes. Sweetin, who played Stephanie Tanner, and Barber, who portrayed Kimmy Gibbler, answered a fan question that delved into the unique dynamic of working with the Olsen twins.
The listener specifically asked if directors ever favored one twin over the other, and how such a situation was managed as they grew older. After Barber read the question, Sweetin provided a candid response.
Contrasting Personalities on Set
Jodie Sweetin confirmed that, especially early on, there was a preference for working with one twin. She clarified that this was during the beginning of their time on the show, which started when the twins were just nine months old.
Sweetin explained the core difference in their temperaments. Mary-Kate did not like being out on set, while Ashley was much more docile and accepting of the work. Ashley was like, 'Cool, whatevs...' Sweetin revealed, adding that it was funny because they maintained these distinct personalities throughout their lives.
Despite these differences, the production team adapted. Sweetin confessed that there were certain scenes one twin would do that the other wouldn't. Barber immediately chimed in, noting that one would want to do a scene because it was more fun, while the other simply didn't care.
The Unbreakable Package Deal
Ultimately, both actors were clear on one crucial point: replacing one twin was never an option. As Andrea Barber succinctly put it, the sisters were a true package deal. The show, which followed a widowed father raising his three daughters in a vibrant San Francisco home with the help of his best friend and brother-in-law, relied on both Mary-Kate and Ashley to complete the Tanner family.
