Candace Cameron Bure grew up on screen as D.J. Tanner, the sensible, caring eldest daughter on Full House. With her bright smile and “good girl” image, she became a role model for young girls across America. As she transitioned into adulthood, Candace carried this squeaky-clean persona into her career with Hallmark movies, books, and talk shows.
But over the past decade, Bure has become a lightning rod for controversy, especially due to her outspoken religious and political views, divisive public statements, and her role in shaping conservative entertainment narratives. Her transformation from beloved child star to one of Hollywood’s most polarizing figures has sparked intense public debate.
From Sitcom Star to Culture Warrior
After Full House, Candace largely stepped away from the spotlight to focus on her family. When she returned, it was with a strong personal brand centered around evangelical Christianity and traditional family values.
This shift was largely accepted—until she began to insert those views into highly visible entertainment platforms. Her statements about same-sex marriage, gender roles, and faith stirred backlash from progressive fans and fellow entertainers alike.
“I’m a Christian, and my values reflect that,” she told The View. “That doesn’t make me hateful.”
Backlash on The View
In 2015, Candace joined The View as a co-host. It was a turning point.
Her conservative takes clashed sharply with the liberal voices on the panel. She was often criticized for defending anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, criticizing feminism, and pushing back against progressive values.
Viewers accused her of being out of touch, and her run was marked by regular social media storms and media pushback.
Candace left The View in 2016, citing work and family commitments, but many speculated she exited due to the increasingly combative environment and overwhelming public backlash.
Hallmark to Great American Family Network Controversy
Candace was long associated with the Hallmark Channel, starring in more than two dozen family-friendly movies. But in 2022, she made headlines by leaving Hallmark and signing with the Great American Family (GAF) Network, led by ex-Hallmark CEO Bill Abbott.
The move sparked massive controversy when she said GAF would “keep traditional marriage at the core” of its programming.
This was widely interpreted as a slight against Hallmark’s recent inclusion of same-sex couples in holiday films.
Celebrities, fans, and LGBTQ+ advocacy groups criticized her for promoting exclusionary ideals. Actress Hilarie Burton called Bure a “bigot,” while JoJo Siwa, an openly queer entertainer, publicly voiced her disappointment.
Candace defended herself, saying:
“I have great love and respect for all people… but I want to tell stories that reflect my faith.”
Nonetheless, the damage to her public reputation among more progressive audiences was significant.
Social Media Controversies and “Cancel Culture” Debates
Candace has frequently taken to Instagram and Twitter to express her views, often sparking backlash.
From criticizing “woke culture” to posting pro-faith content that many interpreted as passive-aggressive, she has become a polarizing figure on social platforms.
One infamous post included a Bible verse seemingly aimed at her critics, prompting accusations of weaponizing religion.
She has also claimed to be a victim of cancel culture, though her career continues to thrive among conservative Christian audiences.
Personal Life in the Spotlight
Married to retired hockey player Valeri Bure since 1996, Candace often speaks about the importance of submission and traditional gender roles in marriage—a stance that’s drawn both admiration and condemnation.
She’s also been criticized for parenting comments, such as advocating for strict discipline, modesty, and gender roles, which some consider outdated or even harmful.
Career Impact and Reinvention
While her controversies may have alienated some fans, they’ve also solidified her position as a conservative entertainment icon. With a new home at GAF and a loyal Christian following, Candace has carved out a niche market—one where she doesn’t have to dilute her beliefs.
She’s authored several best-selling books on faith, family, and identity, and she regularly tours churches and Christian conferences as a speaker.
In a divided entertainment landscape, Candace is both a success story and a symbol of the culture wars.
FAQs
Q1: Why did Candace Cameron Bure leave Hallmark Channel?
She left to join the Great American Family Network, citing alignment with her Christian values, particularly about “traditional marriage.”
Q2: What was the controversy surrounding her LGBTQ+ comments?
Her statement that GAF would prioritize “traditional marriage” was widely seen as exclusionary and anti-LGBTQ+.
Q3: Did Candace get fired from The View?
No. She left voluntarily, though many believe ongoing political tension influenced her decision.
Q4: How does she respond to criticism?
She often claims to act from a place of love and faith and denies accusations of hate or bigotry.
Q5: What’s her career focus now?
Producing and starring in films for GAF, writing Christian-themed books, and speaking at faith-based events.
