Meaning: The quote by Kurtwood Smith provides insight into how the character he portrayed on the television show "That '70s Show" was developed. Smith played the role of Red Forman, the stern and traditional father of one of the main characters. In this quote, Smith reflects on the inspiration for his portrayal of Red Forman, attributing aspects of the character to his own father and stepfather.

Smith begins by acknowledging that "More of him came from my step-dad, who is now passed away." This suggests that Smith drew inspiration from his stepfather in shaping the character of Red Forman. It's evident that Smith's stepfather had a significant influence on the portrayal, as indicated by the use of "more" in the statement. This implies that the traits and mannerisms exhibited by Red Forman were partly derived from Smith's experiences with his stepfather.

Additionally, Smith mentions, "The initial creators of the show kind of based the character on their dads." This sheds light on the origins of the character and reveals that the initial concept for Red Forman was inspired by the creators' own fathers. The collaborative effort in drawing from personal experiences to develop the character underscores the depth and authenticity of the portrayal.

Furthermore, Smith adds, "and then I added my dad." This indicates that Smith incorporated elements of his own father into the character of Red Forman. By integrating aspects of his biological father into the role, Smith contributed to the multifaceted nature of the character, infusing it with personal nuances and characteristics from his own life.

Smith's statement provides valuable insight into the creative process behind the development of Red Forman. The collaborative approach taken by the show's creators and Smith resulted in a character that resonated with audiences due to its relatable and authentic portrayal of a father figure. By drawing from their personal experiences and relationships with their fathers, the creators and Smith were able to imbue Red Forman with a depth and complexity that made him a memorable and impactful character in the series.

In conclusion, Kurtwood Smith's quote offers a glimpse into the multi-layered inspiration behind the character of Red Forman on "That '70s Show." It highlights the collaborative effort between the show's creators and Smith in drawing from their own familial relationships to shape the character. Through this approach, Red Forman emerged as a rich and nuanced portrayal of a father figure, resonating with audiences and leaving a lasting impression.