Full House is a classic sitcom that has been etched into the hearts of fans since it first aired in 1987. Whether you grew up watching the Tanner family navigate the ups and downs of life or have recently discovered this iconic show, there’s no denying its charm. But, with so many heartwarming and hilarious moments over eight seasons, how do you pick the very best episodes?
In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the five best episodes of Full House—episodes that perfectly encapsulate the humor, love, and life lessons this beloved family sitcom had to offer. These episodes are timeless, with unforgettable moments that still resonate with fans today. Ready to relive some of the best moments from Full House? Let’s get started!
1. “The Tanning Bed” (Season 5, Episode 21)
One of the most iconic episodes of Full House is undoubtedly “The Tanning Bed.” In this episode, Danny Tanner (Bob Saget) finds himself in a dilemma when his sister-in-law, Jesse, convinces him to try out a tanning bed. Of course, chaos ensues. The episode is a hilarious mix of physical comedy and heartfelt moments, typical of the show’s ability to blend humor with meaningful life lessons.
Why It’s Great:
- Danny’s struggle with stepping out of his comfort zone.
- Jesse’s relentless persuasion and the resulting family drama.
- The heartwarming conclusion that reinforces the importance of family.
If you haven’t watched this one yet, don’t miss it. It’s a true representation of what makes Full House so unforgettable: humor mixed with life lessons.
2. “The Graduates” (Season 8, Episode 24)
Graduation day is a big deal, and it’s even more meaningful when the entire Tanner family is involved. In “The Graduates,” we see Michelle Tanner (Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen) prepare for her high school graduation, while DJ Tanner (Candace Cameron Bure) faces a big decision about her future.
Why It’s Great:
- The emotional farewell to the characters as they leave childhood behind.
- DJ’s poignant moment of self-reflection.
- The family coming together for an unforgettable graduation ceremony.
This episode resonates with anyone who’s had to make tough decisions as they transition into the next phase of life. It’s the kind of episode that brings tears to your eyes while leaving you with a smile on your face.
3. “Michelle Rides Again” (Season 6, Episode 24)
“Michelle Rides Again” is a two-part finale that delivers on both laughter and tears. In this episode, Michelle is involved in a near-fatal accident, which causes the entire family to come together in support of her recovery. The show expertly mixes slapstick humor with heartfelt moments, and it’s a standout episode for its emotional depth.
Why It’s Great:
- Michelle’s near-death experience puts life into perspective for the Tanner family.
- The family dynamic is stronger than ever, as everyone comes together to support Michelle.
- The dramatic, yet humorous, moments that make you appreciate the show’s unique ability to balance comedy with serious topics.
This episode left fans on the edge of their seats, and it remains one of the most memorable episodes in the entire series. It’s definitely worth watching if you want to see Full House at its best.
4. “The Best Laid Plans” (Season 6, Episode 9)
In “The Best Laid Plans,” Joey Gladstone (Dave Coulier) plans a romantic evening with his girlfriend, but things go awry when he accidentally ruins the entire evening. Meanwhile, Danny deals with his own issues in trying to help Joey. This episode encapsulates the kind of situational comedy that Full House is known for—full of mishaps, misunderstandings, and plenty of laughs.
Why It’s Great:
- The classic Joey misadventures that always deliver humor.
- Danny’s supportive yet overbearing nature that leads to hilarious situations.
- The heartwarming message about learning from mistakes and being there for each other.
The balance of humor and family values makes this one a favorite among fans. Joey’s awkward yet lovable persona is on full display, and the way the family supports each other is what makes this episode truly special.
5. “Tanner vs. Gibbler” (Season 8, Episode 12)
Tanner vs. Gibbler is an episode that focuses on the rivalry between DJ Tanner and her quirky best friend, Kimmy Gibbler (Andrea Barber). The two get into a heated competition to see who can be the best at various challenges, all while trying to win the affections of the same guy. This episode has all the hallmark characteristics of a great Full House episode: fun, quirky characters, and a heartwarming lesson about friendship.
Why It’s Great:
- The hilarious dynamic between DJ and Kimmy.
- The way the episode explores how competition can affect friendships.
- The uplifting message about the importance of true friends, no matter what.
This episode will make you laugh, especially if you’re a fan of Kimmy’s bizarre antics. It’s a great reminder that true friendship is worth more than any competition or rivalry.
6. The Evolution of Full House: What Made the Show Stand Out?
It’s clear that Full House became a beloved family sitcom due to its unique ability to balance humor with life lessons. But what made it stand out from other shows of its time?
A Family-Centered Show
The heart of Full House is, without a doubt, its portrayal of the Tanner family. While other sitcoms focused on quirky characters, Full House was able to create a relatable family unit that felt authentic and genuine.
Heartfelt Storylines
Each episode typically delivered a moral lesson—whether it was about friendship, responsibility, or love. These lessons, combined with humor, made the show resonate with viewers of all ages.
Iconic Characters
From the fun-loving Uncle Jesse to the witty Joey Gladstone, Full House offered a cast of characters that became household names. These iconic personalities brought laughter, but also served as role models for viewers, teaching important life lessons through their actions.
7. Full House’s Lasting Impact: Why It’s Still Relevant Today
Even though Full House ended in 1995, its impact is still felt today. Fans continue to cherish the show, and its legacy lives on through the spin-off Fuller House and reruns that still air on TV.
The show has had a lasting influence on sitcoms that followed, setting a blueprint for family-friendly comedy that mixes humor with heartfelt moments. For a generation of fans, Full House will always remain a part of their lives—whether they’re watching the show again with their own kids or reminiscing about the laughs they shared with family members.
Conclusion
Full House has earned its place in TV history with a blend of humor, heart, and memorable characters. From Danny Tanner’s strict fathering to Uncle Jesse’s rock ‘n’ roll charm, every episode offered something special. The five best episodes of Full House highlighted in this article are perfect examples of what made the show such a classic: family moments, life lessons, and plenty of laughs.
Whether you’re new to the show or a lifelong fan, these episodes will remind you why Full House continues to hold a special place in the hearts of viewers worldwide.
FAQs
1. What is the best episode of Full House?
While it’s subjective, many fans consider “Michelle Rides Again” to be one of the best episodes because of its emotional depth and family-centered storyline.
2. Where can I watch Full House today?
You can stream Full House on platforms like Netflix or watch reruns on various TV networks.
3. What is the moral of Full House?
The show often teaches valuable lessons about family, love, friendship, and personal growth.
4. Did Full House have a spin-off?
Yes, Fuller House is the spin-off series that continues the story with the next generation of the Tanner family.
5. What makes Full House so timeless?
The combination of humor, heart, and relatable family dynamics has made Full House an enduring favorite that still resonates with audiences today.
