My original family name is Stamotopoulos, which was shortened by my grandparents when they came to America from Greece. My parents are Bill and Loretta (Phillips), and I have two younger sisters, Janeen & Alaina, both school teachers. My first professional role was as Blackie Parrish on the daytime soap General Hospital (1963) from 1982-1984, for which I won two Soap Opera Digest Awards (1982 and 1983). In 1987 I began the role of Jesse on Full House (1987), which is my best-known role to date, spanning eight years. At my request, the writers of Full House (1987) gave my character the last name of Katsopolis, instead of the original character`s name, Cochran, in order to highlight my Greek heritage. I have played drums occasionally with The Beach Boys since 1985, and directed their Hot Fun in the Summertime video. I expanded my career to include the role of J. Pierrepont Finch in Broadway`s production of How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying! in 1995, showcasing not only my musical talents, but my dancing ability, as well. On September 19, 1997, I married model Rebecca Romijn of MTV`s House of Style (1989), which was the first marriage for both. We were officially divorced on March 1, 2005. ©