When Full House first premiered, it had poor ratings and even worse critical reviews. As it went on, the show found its footing and audience that appreciated its grounded storytelling that focused on the highs and lows of parenting but from the point of view of both the parents and children. Despite the initial critical result, the show grew in popularity over time that remains, as can be witnessed by appearances at different conventions.
Coulier returned for Full House’s spinoff, Fuller House, not as a series regular, but as a guest star like Bob Saget and John Stamos. Despite criticisms about the Netflix prequel, it was actually able to preserve continuity when it came to Joey’s kookiness which was embraced by viewers of the original show.
Coulier is proposing another Full House spinoff. One that aims to honor Bob Saget and Danny Tanner’s legacy. Some of his former cast mates are open to doing it, but at this point, there’s just no concrete indication that it’s going to happen. Even if it actually pushes through, it may be a while before it actually comes to fruition.
*Full House* became a beloved show for audiences despite being critically panned due to a combination of factors that resonated with viewers, even if they didn’t necessarily appeal to critics. Here are some key reasons for its popularity:
1. **Family-Friendly Content**
– *Full House* provided wholesome, family-friendly entertainment during a time when such shows were highly sought after. It appealed to a wide demographic, including children, parents, and even grandparents, making it a show the whole family could watch together.
2. **Relatable and Lovable Characters**
– The show featured a cast of relatable and endearing characters. From Danny Tanner’s cleanliness obsession to Uncle Jesse’s cool rock ‘n’ roll persona and Joey’s playful humor, each character brought something unique that audiences could connect with. The Tanner girls, especially Michelle, played by the Olsen twins, became fan favorites.
3. **Nostalgia and Comfort**
– *Full House* became a comfort show for many, offering simple, feel-good storylines with predictable resolutions. Its light-hearted tone and emphasis on family values provided a sense of nostalgia and comfort, making it a go-to show for viewers looking to unwind.
4. **Catchy Theme Song and Iconic Opening Sequence**
– The show’s catchy theme song, “Everywhere You Look,” along with its iconic opening sequence, became instantly recognizable. The theme song contributed to the show’s identity and played a role in cementing it in pop culture.
5. **Moral Lessons**
– Each episode of *Full House* often ended with a moral lesson or “teachable moment,” usually delivered in a heartfelt scene. While critics might have found this formulaic or overly sentimental, many viewers appreciated the show’s positive messages about family, friendship, and personal growth.
6. **Strong Syndication**
– After its initial run, *Full House* gained even more popularity through syndication. Reruns on various networks introduced the show to new generations of viewers, helping it maintain a lasting presence in popular culture.
7. **Cultural Impact**
– The show became a cultural phenomenon, with catchphrases like “You got it, dude!” and “Have mercy!” becoming part of the zeitgeist. The show’s impact on popular culture kept it relevant long after its original run, contributing to its enduring popularity.
8. **Timing and Network Support**
– *Full House* aired during a time when there were fewer channels and less competition for viewers’ attention, which helped it gain a strong, loyal audience. ABC, the network that aired the show, heavily promoted it as part of its “TGIF” (Thank God It’s Friday) lineup, which was a popular programming block for family-oriented sitcoms.
While *Full House* may not have won over the critics, its combination of heartwarming stories, relatable characters, and family-friendly humor helped it resonate deeply with audiences, ultimately making it a beloved and iconic television show.
