“Full House” wasn’t just a beloved family sitcom—it was a cultural touchstone that raised a generation. But what many fans didn’t know was that behind the wholesome family image, there was a playful rivalry brewing between Bob Saget (Danny Tanner) and Dave Coulier (Joey Gladstone).
Their competition wasn’t bitter—it was comedic, lighthearted, and ultimately part of what made the show’s chemistry so magical. From joke-telling battles to physical comedy one-upmanship, their behind-the-scenes antics reveal a side of “Full House” that fans rarely got to see.
Let’s dig into the details of this friendly competition, the cast reactions, and why it still matters decades later.
The Heart of “Full House”
Before diving into the rivalry, it’s worth remembering what “Full House” meant. Premiering in 1987, the show told the story of widowed dad Danny Tanner raising his three daughters with the help of his brother-in-law Jesse (John Stamos) and best friend Joey (Dave Coulier).
It was wholesome, heartfelt, and packed with laughs. But part of what gave the show its humor was the natural comedic instincts of its stars—especially Saget and Coulier.
Bob Saget: The Surprising Comedian Behind Danny Tanner
On-screen, Bob Saget played the meticulous, rule-abiding father Danny Tanner. Off-screen, though, Saget was anything but squeaky clean. Known for his edgy stand-up comedy, Saget had a razor-sharp wit and a love for pushing boundaries.
This contrast made him a wildcard on set—someone who could deliver heartwarming lines on camera, then crack adult-only jokes backstage.
Dave Coulier: The Master of Impressions
Dave Coulier was the resident clown of the cast. Famous for his uncanny impressions (from cartoon voices to celebrities), he brought a lightheartedness that balanced Saget’s sharper humor.
Coulier’s improvisations often had the cast in stitches—and sometimes derailed rehearsals entirely.
The Origin of the Rivalry
So where did the competition come from? According to co-stars, Saget and Coulier constantly tried to outdo each other when it came to comedy. If Saget cracked a joke, Coulier would swoop in with an impression. If Coulier got a big laugh, Saget would fire back with something even wilder.
It wasn’t mean-spirited. Think of it as two class clowns in the same room—each determined to get the loudest laugh.
Who Was Funnier? Cast Opinions Differ
John Stamos once admitted that deciding who was funnier was impossible. Saget had a sharp, sometimes shocking wit, while Coulier leaned on playful, family-friendly humor.
Candace Cameron Bure described their competition as “brotherly banter,” noting that the rivalry fueled the set’s energy rather than creating tension.
The Joke Battles
One of the cast’s favorite memories involved Saget and Coulier staging impromptu “joke battles” between takes. Each would take turns delivering punchlines, trying to get not only the cast but also the crew laughing so hard that filming had to stop.
For the younger cast members, these battles felt like live comedy shows during work hours.
Prank Wars on Set
The competition went beyond jokes. Coulier was known for pulling pranks, while Saget loved coming up with clever ways to mess with his co-stars. Whether it was hiding props, swapping lines during rehearsals, or improvising during live tapings, their pranks kept everyone on their toes.
Impact on the Show’s Energy
That playful competition didn’t just stay behind the scenes—it seeped into their performances. Danny and Joey’s dynamic on-screen felt authentic because, in reality, the actors were constantly playing off each other.
Their banter gave “Full House” some of its funniest and most memorable moments.
Lessons from Their Rivalry
At its core, their competition showed the power of collaboration. Instead of tearing each other down, Saget and Coulier lifted each other up. Each pushed the other to be funnier, sharper, and more creative.
It’s proof that sometimes rivalry, when rooted in friendship, can spark magic.
What the Younger Cast Learned
For child actors like Jodie Sweetin and Candace Cameron Bure, watching Saget and Coulier compete was like attending a comedy masterclass. They learned timing, delivery, and how to improvise—all skills that helped them grow as performers.
Bob Saget’s Passing and Reflections
When Bob Saget tragically passed away in 2022, Dave Coulier shared emotional tributes. Despite their rivalry, Coulier described Saget as a “brother” and credited him with shaping his career.
The playful competition suddenly felt like a gift—a reminder of the joy they shared on and off set.
Fans React to the Rivalry Stories
When these behind-the-scenes stories emerged, fans loved them. Social media lit up with nostalgia, with many saying it made them appreciate the show even more. Knowing the laughter on screen was matched by even more behind the camera made “Full House” feel like family to viewers, too.
Comparisons to Modern Sitcoms
Unlike today’s sitcoms, which often have strict scripts and limited improvisation, “Full House” thrived on its actors’ chemistry. Saget and Coulier’s competition wouldn’t have worked in a rigid environment—it needed freedom, trust, and playfulness.
Legacy of the Rivalry
Decades later, their competition still resonates because it highlights the human side of acting. These weren’t just characters—they were comedians who loved making people laugh, even if it meant competing to do it better.
That legacy lives on in reruns, cast reunions, and the heartfelt memories shared by fans.
Conclusion
The rivalry between Bob Saget and Dave Coulier wasn’t about ego—it was about laughter. Their playful competition pushed “Full House” to new comedic heights and made the show the cultural phenomenon it remains today.
It’s a reminder that sometimes the best magic happens when friends push each other to be their funniest selves.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Were Bob Saget and Dave Coulier actually rivals?
Yes, but in a friendly, comedic way. Their competition was about making people laugh, not about outshining each other.
2. Did their rivalry ever cause tension on set?
No. Cast members described it as lighthearted and said it boosted the show’s energy.
3. Who was considered funnier—Saget or Coulier?
Opinions differ. Saget had sharper, edgier humor, while Coulier excelled in impressions and slapstick.
4. How did their competition affect the show?
It created natural chemistry that translated into authentic on-screen humor.
5. What did Dave Coulier say after Bob Saget’s passing?
He described Saget as a brother and reflected on their years of laughter and friendship.
