A Farewell That Left Fans Wondering
When Full House wrapped up its eighth and final season in 1995, fans were shocked. The Tanner family had become part of so many people’s lives, and the show was still pulling in solid ratings. So why end it?
Recently, Dave Coulier, best known as Joey Gladstone, opened up about the show’s final season—and what really went down behind the scenes. And according to him, the answer isn’t as warm and fuzzy as the show itself.
The End of an Era
Full House wasn’t just another sitcom—it was the family-friendly comedy of the late ’80s and early ’90s. From 1987 to 1995, it dominated ABC’s TGIF lineup, created countless iconic catchphrases, and made stars out of its cast.
But in the background? Things weren’t quite as picture-perfect.
Dave Coulier Speaks Out: “Not Everybody Was Into It”
In a candid reflection, Dave Coulier revealed that by the time Season 8 rolled around, the energy on set had changed. While the show still had loyal fans, not everyone involved was feeling the same passion they had in the early years.
“It had been a long run. The kids were growing up, storylines were getting harder to write, and behind the scenes… not everybody was into it anymore,” Coulier shared during a recent interview.
A Show That Outgrew Itself?
As much as fans loved watching D.J., Stephanie, and Michelle grow up, the writers were finding it tough to keep the family-centric magic alive as the girls matured.
What happens when a show built around adorable kids suddenly has teens at the center? The answer: some of the charm fades—at least in the eyes of network execs.
ABC’s Surprising Decision
Despite solid ratings, ABC pulled the plug on Full House after Season 8. Coulier admitted that even the cast was taken aback.
“We thought we might get another year,” he said. “We didn’t get a grand goodbye. It just… ended.”
In truth, ABC was moving toward more edgy content to compete with networks like FOX and WB, and the sweet, squeaky-clean tone of Full House no longer fit the brand.
Changing Tides in TV Culture
By the mid-’90s, family sitcoms were giving way to grittier, more cynical humor. Shows like Friends and Seinfeld were dominating prime time, and Full House felt a bit old-fashioned.
The writing was on the wall. Even though millions of fans still loved the Tanners, the show just didn’t match where TV was heading.
The Cast Reacts to the Cancellation
While Coulier has now reflected on the lack of enthusiasm in the final days, other cast members have shared bittersweet thoughts over the years:
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John Stamos has admitted he was ready to move on to other projects.
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Jodie Sweetin called the cancellation “a shock.”
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Bob Saget expressed regret over not giving the show a proper finale.
The vibe? A mix of surprise, sadness, and a hint of relief. After eight years, even the best families need a breather.
Did the Show Really “End”?
Yes, Full House was canceled—but the story didn’t stop there. Thanks to syndication, reruns, and a massive fanbase, Full House never really went away. It became a staple on TV for years to come, growing a new generation of fans who discovered it long after it ended.
From Cancellation to Revival: Fuller House is Born
Fast forward to 2016—Netflix brought the Tanners back with Fuller House, a sequel that picked up decades later. D.J. is now a widow (mirroring Danny’s original role), and she’s raising her own kids with help from Stephanie and Kimmy.
Most of the original cast returned, including Coulier, proving that while interest may have waned in 1995, the love never died.
Joey Gladstone’s Legacy
Joey was more than just a sidekick. He was the goofy, caring uncle figure who brought laughter and comfort when things got tough. Whether he was doing his Popeye impression or helping Michelle through a bad day, Joey mattered.
Dave Coulier’s portrayal brought depth to a role that could’ve been a one-note goofball—and fans never forgot that.
What Dave Coulier Is Doing Now
Since Full House, Coulier has continued performing, mostly in voice acting and stand-up comedy. He’s voiced characters in shows like The Real Ghostbusters, Robot Chicken, and even made appearances in Fuller House.
And yes—he still does that Popeye voice.
Looking Back Without Regret
Despite how it ended, Coulier remains grateful for the experience. In the same interview, he said:
“That show gave us all a chance to be part of something magical. No matter how it ended, it changed our lives. And I still hear from fans every day. That’s what matters.”
Conclusion: The Show May Be Over, But the Love Lives On
Sometimes, even the most beloved shows don’t get the grand sendoff they deserve. Full House was one of those. But here’s the thing—it doesn’t take away from the legacy it built. Dave Coulier’s honest reflection gives fans a peek into the reality behind the laughter.
And maybe, just maybe, that makes the story even more meaningful.
FAQs
Q1: Why was Full House canceled after Season 8?
A1: ABC decided to end the show due to shifting network priorities and a desire to move toward edgier content. Interest behind the scenes also began to fade.
Q2: Did Dave Coulier want the show to continue?
A2: Coulier has said the cast hoped for another season, but he acknowledges the energy wasn’t the same in the final year.
Q3: Was Full House still getting good ratings when it ended?
A3: Yes, it remained popular with viewers, but network decisions were based on future brand direction rather than just ratings.
Q4: Did Full House get a proper finale?
A4: Not really. The final episode wasn’t written as a series finale, so it felt abrupt for many fans.
Q5: Where can I watch Full House and Fuller House today?
A5: Both series are available on streaming platforms like HBO Max and Netflix.
