Julia Montgomery, an actress known for her roles in various sitcoms, took on the challenge of playing the adult version of Stephanie Tanner in a Full House episode. This role required meticulous preparation and attention to detail. In a recent podcast appearance, Montgomery shared insights into how she approached this iconic character, emphasizing the importance of studying mannerisms and vocal nuances. Her experience with impersonating characters from previous roles proved invaluable in bringing Stephanie’s future self to life. Despite her efforts, Montgomery expressed some regrets about certain aspects of her portrayal, particularly regarding physical gestures.

Mastering the Character Through Observation

To effectively embody the adult Stephanie Tanner, Julia Montgomery focused on capturing the essence of the character through non-verbal cues. She explained that watching episodes without sound allowed her to focus solely on body language and facial expressions. This method helped her understand the subtleties that made Stephanie unique. Additionally, meeting the show’s creator, Jeff Franklin, provided valuable context for understanding the character’s development.

Montgomery’s preparation involved dissecting Stephanie’s famous catchphrase “how rude” in various ways. She practiced it both silently and aloud, ensuring that every nuance was captured accurately. By breaking down the phrase piece by piece, she managed to deliver it authentically. Her confidence grew as she mastered not just the words but also the accompanying movements, such as skipping, which became second nature during filming.

Reflecting on the Experience and Lessons Learned

Despite the success of her portrayal, Julia Montgomery reflected on areas where she felt she could have done better. One aspect that left her feeling unsatisfied was the replication of Stephanie’s hand gestures. She wished she had paid more attention to these details, acknowledging that they are crucial for fully embodying a character. This realization underscores the complexity involved in impersonating a well-known figure.

Montgomery’s experience on Full House was enriched by her background in similar roles. For instance, her work on Cheers, where she impersonated Diane Chambers, provided useful techniques for preparing for the Stephanie Tanner role. The absence of modern resources like YouTube meant that traditional methods of study were essential. Ultimately, her dedication to mastering the character’s mannerisms and catchphrases resulted in a memorable performance that resonated with fans of the show.