American actor Dave Coulier, widely known to the public as Uncle Joey from the iconic sitcom ‘Full House’, has once again been diagnosed with cancer. This news comes just months after he successfully overcame lymphoma. During a routine medical examination in October 2025, doctors discovered P16-positive squamous cell carcinoma at the base of his tongue, which, they emphasize, is unrelated to his previous diagnosis.
Despite the seriousness of the situation, the actor remains optimistic and maintains a fighting spirit. To combat the new illness, he has been prescribed a course of radiation therapy consisting of 35 sessions, scheduled to conclude on December 31, 2025. Coulier and his doctors are confident in a positive outcome, as the prognosis for this type of tumor is exceedingly good—the likelihood of a complete cure exceeds 90%. According to the actor himself, early detection played a key role in this.
Dave Coulier is using his experience to raise awareness about the importance of preventive medicine. He strongly urges everyone not to neglect regular screenings such as colonoscopies, mammograms, and prostate exams. “These procedures can save your life,” the actor emphasizes, with his own story serving as a vivid example. During this challenging time, he is receiving strong support from close friend and ‘Full House’ co-star John Stamos, demonstrating the strength of a friendship tested by years and hardships.
The squamous cell carcinoma diagnosed in Coulier develops from the cells lining the surface of the tongue. The “P16” marker indicates an association with a protein often linked to human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Paradoxically, this factor generally provides a better prognosis and a stronger response to treatment. The insidious nature of such tumors lies in their ability to develop slowly and without symptoms, as there are no nerve fibers responsible for pain in the area where they arise, making early detection difficult without targeted examinations.
RUSSPAIN Background: David Alan Coulier, known as Dave Coulier, is an American stand-up comedian, actor, and television host. He is best known for his role as Joey Gladstone on the popular sitcom “Full House,” which aired from 1987 to 1995, as well as its sequel, “Fuller House” (2016–2020). His character became memorable to viewers for his kind-hearted demeanor, comedic talents, and skill in impersonating cartoon voices. In addition to his acting career, Coulier was actively involved in voice acting and served as a host for various television shows.
