Overview
David Alan "Dave" Coulier (born September 21, 1959) is an American performer whose work spans television acting, stand-up comedy, impressions and voice-over. He rose to broad public recognition in the late 1980s and early 1990s and has continued to work in entertainment in a variety of roles. For an overview of his career and credits, see Dave Coulier's profile.
Career beginnings and style
Coulier began performing as a comedian and impressionist, building a reputation for quick impressions of celebrities and cartoon‑style voices. His comedy is often family oriented and physical, combining vocal mimicry with pratfalls and catchphrases. Those skills led naturally to voice acting assignments and television guest spots; a sample of his voice work can be found at voice credits.
Joey Gladstone and Full House
His best-known role is Joey Gladstone, the amiable comedian and family friend on the ABC sitcom Full House, which made him a familiar face to a generation of viewers. The character was written as a stand-up comic who entertained the household with impressions and comic routines, and several of Coulier's real-life comedic mannerisms became part of the role. The show contributed significantly to his public image and remains the most frequently cited credit in retrospectives.
Later work and public presence
After the original run of the sitcom, Coulier continued performing in stand-up and pursued voice-over and hosting opportunities, as well as guest appearances on television. He also participated in reunion and revival projects; he returned to the Joey Gladstone role for the later family-oriented revival Fuller House. Beyond scripted roles, he has been involved in live comedy events, conventions and interviews reflecting on his career.
Notable traits and legacy
Coulier is often remembered for a few distinctive features of his public persona: his skill with impressions, a family-friendly comic style, and a handful of catchphrases that fans associate with his television character. While Full House remains the centerpiece of his mainstream recognition, his body of work also includes voice acting, live comedy and numerous television appearances that illustrate a multifaceted career in popular entertainment.
Quick facts
- Born: September 21, 1959.
- Primary occupations: actor, stand-up comedian, impressionist, voice performer and television host.
- Breakthrough role: Joey Gladstone on Full House.
- Revival appearance: reprised his role in the later series Fuller House and has continued to appear at public events.