Full House is a beloved family sitcom that aired from 1987 to 1995, becoming a staple of ’90s television. Its light-hearted humor, family dynamics, and lovable characters, like Danny Tanner, Uncle Jesse, and Aunt Becky, left a lasting impact on millions of fans worldwide. The series was so iconic that it spawned a highly successful sequel: Fuller House, which premiered in 2016. As a result, many fans are eager to relive the classic sitcom moments while exploring the sequel and its new generation of Tanners.
But with multiple seasons, spin-offs, and timelines, fans often wonder: What’s the best way to watch Full House and its sequels? Should you follow the release order, or does watching in chronological order make more sense?
In this article, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to watch Full House and its spin-offs, both in the release order and chronological order. This guide will make it easy for you to navigate through the series and enjoy every memorable moment, no matter how you choose to watch.
How to Watch Full House and Fuller House: Release Order vs. Chronological Order
Before diving into the viewing orders, let’s take a quick look at the two main series in the Full House universe:
- Full House (1987–1995)
- Fuller House (2016–2020)
In addition to these two, there were several specials and guest appearances that contribute to the Full House experience.
Watching Full House and Fuller House in Release Order
The release order is the most straightforward way to watch Full House and Fuller House since it follows the timeline of when episodes and spin-offs were originally aired. For many fans, this is the best method because it allows you to experience the shows just like they were first introduced to the world.
1. Full House (1987–1995)
Start with the original series, Full House. It’s the heart and soul of the entire franchise, introducing us to the Tanner family. The show begins with Danny Tanner, a widowed father raising three daughters with the help of his brother-in-law, Jesse, and his best friend, Joey.
The show tackles themes of family, friendship, love, and growing up, with a delightful mix of humor and touching moments. Over the course of eight seasons, Full House brings viewers closer to the beloved characters, many of whom became icons of ’90s TV.
2. Fuller House (2016–2020)
Next, dive into Fuller House, the sequel series that picks up more than 20 years after Full House ended. The series centers around DJ Tanner, who is now a widowed mother of three, and her sister Stephanie, who comes back to live with her along with their friend Kimmy Gibbler.
The show introduces new characters while paying homage to the original cast, with many fan-favorite characters from Full House making appearances. Fuller House also explores the next generation of the Tanner family, highlighting the relationships, challenges, and triumphs of raising a family in today’s world.
3. Special Episodes and Guest Appearances
Throughout the years, there were several specials, including reunions and guest appearances. These add extra layers of joy for fans who want to experience the Full House world in its entirety.
Watching Full House and Fuller House in Chronological Order
For those who prefer watching the series in the order the events actually happened within the Full House universe, chronological order is the way to go. Watching the shows in this order allows you to follow the character arcs more closely and see how events unfold in real-time.
1. Start with Full House (Season 1)
Just like the release order, you’ll begin with Full House, watching the first season all the way through to season 8. You’ll witness the evolution of the Tanner family and their ups and downs, from the very first episode where Danny deals with the loss of his wife, to the emotional finale where the Tanners move forward with their lives.
The timeline of Full House follows a natural progression where the kids grow up, and their personal journeys take center stage. The show focuses on their relationship with their family, friends, and the world around them.
2. Transition to Fuller House
Once you reach the end of Full House, you can transition to Fuller House, picking up the story after the events of the original show. This is when the timeline shifts to a more modern setting, where the characters have matured and the next generation begins to take center stage.
Fuller House directly addresses the passage of time, with DJ Tanner now a widow and mother of three, continuing to balance family life with her career. The timeline between the two shows feels natural, as Fuller House picks up exactly where Full House left off.
3. Crossovers and Specials
To complete the experience, check out any crossovers, specials, or reunion episodes. While these typically don’t impact the overall storyline, they provide an extra dose of nostalgia for long-time fans of the show.
Where to Watch Full House and Fuller House
You can catch Full House and Fuller House on various streaming platforms.
- Full House is available for streaming on platforms like Hulu and Amazon Prime.
- Fuller House is exclusive to Netflix, where all five seasons are available for binge-watching.
Why Choose Release Order or Chronological Order?
Release Order: A Fun, Nostalgic Experience
Watching in release order allows you to experience the shows the way they were originally introduced. It lets you see how the characters evolved over time and gives you the opportunity to enjoy the original series first, with Fuller House serving as a nice reunion.
Chronological Order: A Seamless Transition
If you prefer a more seamless viewing experience, chronological order helps you follow the timeline of the characters’ lives in real-time. This order allows you to see the progression of their stories without any jumps in time, making it ideal for viewers who want to see how things unfolded for the Tanner family.
The Impact of Full House and Fuller House on Pop Culture
Both Full House and Fuller House have left lasting marks on pop culture. From iconic catchphrases like “You got it, dude!” to unforgettable family moments, these shows shaped how we view family sitcoms. Their influence is still seen today, with fans reminiscing about the Tanner family’s highs and lows. Both shows continue to resonate with new generations, who can enjoy these family-centric storylines that are just as relevant now as they were in the ’80s and ’90s.
Conclusion: Which Way Should You Watch?
Whether you choose to follow the release order or chronological order, both ways offer a rich experience that highlights the Tanner family’s growth, love, and laughs. If you want to enjoy Full House the way it was originally aired, the release order is perfect for you. However, if you prefer a smoother transition from one series to the next, chronological order may be the better option.
Either way, the Full House franchise has something for everyone — humor, heart, and family values that transcend generations. Grab your popcorn, settle in, and enjoy the ride through the Tanner family’s unforgettable journey.
FAQs
1. Is Full House still available to watch?
Yes, Full House is available to stream on platforms like Hulu and Amazon Prime Video.
2. Where can I watch Fuller House?
Fuller House is available for streaming exclusively on Netflix.
3. Do I need to watch Full House before Fuller House?
It’s recommended to watch Full House first for better context, but you can still enjoy Fuller House without it if you’re just looking for a fun show.
4. Which order is best for new viewers?
It depends on your preference! If you’re all about nostalgia, watch in release order. For a smoother timeline, chronological order will give you a seamless experience.
5. Are there any special episodes or reunions I should watch?
Yes, both Full House and Fuller House have reunion specials, cameo appearances, and fun crossovers. Keep an eye out for these for added fun!
