When Full House first graced our TV screens in 1987, it quickly became one of the most iconic family sitcoms of all time. For eight seasons, audiences were treated to the adventures of the Tanner family, led by widowed father Danny Tanner (Bob Saget), his brother-in-law Jesse (John Stamos), and best friend Joey (Dave Coulier), as they navigated life together in San Francisco. The show became a staple of 90s television, known for its wholesome humor, unforgettable catchphrases, and memorable family moments.
Now, 40 years after its original airing, Full House still holds a special place in the hearts of millions. But what happened to the beloved cast members who brought these characters to life? In this article, we’ll take a nostalgic look back at where the Full House cast is now and how they’ve changed over the past four decades.
The Stars of Full House: A Look Back at the Key Cast Members
1. Bob Saget: Danny Tanner – The Beloved Dad
Bob Saget, who played the sweet and neurotic Danny Tanner, was the heart and soul of Full House. His role as a widowed father raising three daughters struck a chord with viewers, and he quickly became a household name. After Full House, Saget continued to build his career in comedy and acting.
After Full House: A Shift to Comedy
Bob Saget’s post-Full House career took a slightly different path. He became known for his stand-up comedy, which was known for being much raunchier and darker than his wholesome TV persona. Saget also became the host of America’s Funniest Home Videos and voiced the narrator on How I Met Your Mother. Tragically, Bob Saget passed away in January 2022, but his legacy as a comedic genius and beloved father figure remains timeless.
2. John Stamos: Jesse Katsopolis – The Cool Uncle
John Stamos, who played the charming and guitar-playing Uncle Jesse, became an icon thanks to his role on Full House. His character was known for his good looks, love of rock ‘n’ roll, and his relationship with his wife, Becky. Stamos was a heartthrob for many fans, and his on-screen charisma helped make the show even more memorable.
After Full House: A Career Full of Success
John Stamos has had an incredibly successful career since Full House ended. He continued acting in both television and movies, starring in shows like ER, Grandfathered, and Fuller House. Stamos also pursued his love for music and performed with his band, The Beach Boys. His handsome looks have not aged a day, and his star continues to shine bright.
3. Dave Coulier: Joey Gladstone – The Funny Uncle
Dave Coulier, who portrayed the goofy yet lovable Joey Gladstone, became known for his spot-on impressions and comedic timing. Joey was a fun-loving, light-hearted character who often found himself in hilarious situations with the Tanner family.
After Full House: A Comedy Career
Dave Coulier kept his career in comedy going strong after Full House, performing stand-up and lending his voice to animated series like The Real Ghostbusters. He also became involved with Fuller House, the reboot of Full House, reprising his role as Joey. Coulier is also known for his podcast and continues to make appearances in the comedy world.
4. Candace Cameron Bure: DJ Tanner – The Big Sister
Candace Cameron Bure, who portrayed the responsible older sister DJ Tanner, grew up before our eyes on Full House. As the oldest daughter, DJ was often tasked with looking after her younger sisters, Stephanie and Michelle, and handling some of the show’s more serious moments.
After Full House: A Lifetime of Faith and Family
Candace Cameron Bure’s post-Full House career has been a mix of acting, writing, and hosting. She starred in a number of made-for-TV movies and became a beloved figure in the Hallmark Channel’s lineup of family-friendly films. She’s also an outspoken Christian and author, and her faith has played a central role in her personal and professional life. More recently, Bure starred in Fuller House, the Netflix reboot of the series.
5. Jodie Sweetin: Stephanie Tanner – The Middle Child
Jodie Sweetin played the energetic and often mischievous middle child, Stephanie Tanner. As DJ’s younger sister, Stephanie had her fair share of iconic moments, including her famous line “How rude!” that still gets quoted by fans today.
After Full House: Overcoming Struggles and Rising Again
Jodie Sweetin’s life post-Full House was filled with both challenges and triumphs. After the show ended, Sweetin struggled with addiction but eventually turned her life around. She has since become a spokesperson for recovery and is an advocate for mental health awareness. Sweetin also starred in Fuller House, cementing her place in the Full House legacy.
6. Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen: Michelle Tanner – The Adorable Twins
Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen played the adorable Michelle Tanner, the youngest of the Tanner sisters. The two sisters alternated in portraying Michelle, capturing the hearts of viewers with their cuteness and memorable catchphrases. They became superstars before they could even walk!
After Full House: A Fashion Empire
The Olsen twins transitioned from child stars to fashion moguls. After Full House, Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen went on to create their own clothing line, The Row, which has become a major success in the fashion world. The twins have largely stepped away from acting, choosing instead to focus on their business ventures. They remain two of the most successful child stars-turned-entrepreneurs.
7. Lori Loughlin: Aunt Becky – The Perfect Aunt
Lori Loughlin, who portrayed Becky Katsopolis, Jesse’s wife, became a beloved character as the perfect aunt and the calm, composed counterpart to Jesse’s more wild nature. Her character’s relationship with Jesse and her role as a stepmother to his twin sons made her an integral part of the show.
After Full House: A Controversial Scandal
Lori Loughlin’s career took a dramatic turn after Full House. She became known for her role in the When Calls the Heart series but was also involved in the college admissions scandal in 2019. Loughlin served time in prison for her involvement in the scandal, but she has since made a comeback and continues to act.
8. The Impact of Full House on Pop Culture
For decades, Full House has had a profound influence on pop culture. The show’s iconic theme song, “Everywhere You Look,” is instantly recognizable, and the family dynamics of the Tanner household are still relevant today. The characters’ growth over the years—especially in Fuller House, which brought the next generation of viewers into the fold—show the enduring power of Full House.
Conclusion: A Legacy That Lives On
40 years after Full House ended, the cast has remained a beloved part of many people’s lives. Whether through continued acting, entrepreneurship, or personal growth, the cast members have left an indelible mark on pop culture. While some have faced challenges and setbacks, others have continued to build successful careers.
But no matter where life has taken them, the legacy of Full House and its unforgettable characters lives on. From the wholesome humor to the heartwarming moments, the Tanner family will always hold a special place in our hearts.
FAQs
- What happened to Bob Saget after Full House?
Bob Saget continued his comedy career, hosted America’s Funniest Home Videos, and appeared on How I Met Your Mother before tragically passing away in 2022. - Did Candace Cameron Bure continue acting after Full House?
Yes, Candace Cameron Bure continued acting, starring in Hallmark Channel films and Fuller House. She is also an author and advocate for her faith. - Are Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen still acting?
No, after Full House, Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen transitioned into the fashion industry and became successful businesswomen. - What happened to Jodie Sweetin after Full House?
Jodie Sweetin faced struggles with addiction but later turned her life around. She became a spokesperson for recovery and starred in Fuller House. -
Did Lori Loughlin return to acting after the college admissions scandal?
Yes, after serving time for her involvement in the college admissions scandal, Lori Loughlin has made a comeback and continues to act.
