It's been more than a year since the untimely passing of Alan Thicke, and the impact of his loss is still deeply felt by those who knew him best. You might remember Alan as Dr. Jason Seaver, the beloved patriarch on the classic sitcom Growing Pains. The show aired from 1985 to 1992 and became a staple in many households. Alan’s portrayal of a loving father to Mike (Kirk Cameron), Carol (Tracey Gold), Ben (Jeremy Miller), and Chrissy (Ashley Johnson) left an indelible mark on both the show and its cast. Recently, Kirk, Tracey, and Jeremy sat down with Today’s Savannah Guthrie to share their thoughts about life without their TV dad.
Life Without Alan: A Conversation with the Growing Pains Cast
When asked about how they’ve been coping with Alan’s absence, Tracey Gold opened up about the void he left behind. “It’s still surreal,” she admitted. “It’s hard to fully grasp, and when we’re together, it’s like a constant reminder of what we’ve lost. Alan was such a constant presence in all of our lives. He stayed in touch with each of us, and he’s deeply missed.” Jeremy chimed in, echoing her sentiments. “You notice it every single day, especially in situations like this. Alan was always a big part of everything, including interviews. He would’ve been here leading the charge, guiding us through it all.”
Alan Thicke: More Than Just a TV Dad
Kirk Cameron reflected on the unique bond they shared with Alan during their time on Growing Pains. “We were all kids when the show was on, so Alan wasn’t just our TV dad—he was a real father figure to us,” he said. “He created an environment where we could grow and thrive, both as actors and as individuals. Losing him feels like losing a piece of our childhood.” Tracey added, “Alan wasn’t just the patriarch of the Seaver family; he was the heart and soul of the set. He set the tone for everything, and it was always a happy, welcoming place to be. That’s the legacy he left behind.”
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Remembering Alan: A Legacy of Love and Laughter
Candace Cameron Bure’s brother, Kirk Cameron, was one of the first to pay tribute to Alan after his passing in December 2016. In a heartfelt Instagram post, he wrote, “I spent Monday through Friday for seven important years with Alan Thicke as my ‘TV dad.’ I’m shocked and truly heartbroken today at the news of his death. Alan was a generous, kind, and loving man. I am so blessed to have grown up with him. My wife, Chelsea, and I send our love and prayers to his family tonight. We will cherish the memories… ‘sharing the laughter and love.’”
As the cast continues to honor Alan’s memory, fans are left wondering if a reboot of Growing Pains is in the cards. While it’s hard to imagine the show without Alan, his spirit will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of those who loved him.
