John Stamos initially declined an opportunity to appear on ER, having never watched the show. A chance encounter with George Clooney in a studio commissary changed his mind. Clooney urged him to join, saying it would change his life.
John Stamos revealed in an interview with The New York Times that he was not a fan of ER before being offered an audition. He had been asked to join the show previously but passed. One day, he encountered George Clooney in the commissary on the lot, where Clooney told him: > 'Do “ER.” It's a great show and it will change your life.' This conversation prompted Stamos to reconsider. He was originally in talks to play the role of Dave Malucci, portrayed by Erik Palladino, ahead of season 6. Ultimately, Stamos joined the cast in season 12 as Dr. Tony Gates. Stamos expressed strong affection for ER in the same New York Times interview, lamenting its end: > 'I think they're canceling it prematurely. I still have a lot of energy for the show. I think you could keep doing it as a spin-off.' Speaking to TVLine, he called ER 'a perfect show,' noting it was his favorite job until Big Shot: > 'that was, boy, that was a special show.' Stamos said he would return for a revival, though Noah Wyle previously mentioned discussions for one that did not progress beyond early stages.
