Actor Dave Coulier, widely recognised for his role as Uncle Joey on the iconic sitcom Full House, has announced that he has been diagnosed with tongue cancer—just months after telling fans he had recovered from stage three non-Hodgkin Lymphoma.
The 66-year-old shared the update during an interview with NBC’s Today show, explaining that the new diagnosis is completely unrelated to his previous cancer battle. Coulier said doctors discovered the issue after a routine PET scan in October showed unusual activity, prompting further testing.
Coulier revealed he has P16-positive squamous cell carcinoma at the base of his tongue, a form of oropharyngeal cancer often linked to the human papillomavirus (HPV). He added that doctors believe the cancer may have been triggered by an HPV infection he could have carried for decades without symptoms.
A Strong Prognosis and Intensive Treatment
Despite the unexpected diagnosis, Coulier remains optimistic. He said his type of tongue cancer has a 90% curability rate, and he is currently undergoing 35 rounds of radiation, scheduled to conclude on 31 December.
“The doctor said the prognosis is good, but we’re going to start radiation immediately,” he explained. “It’s a whole different animal than chemo. It doesn’t feel as aggressive, but there are still side effects.”
The actor emphasised that this cancer has no connection to his previous lymphoma diagnosis. In late 2024, Coulier announced he had stage three non-Hodgkin Lymphoma and quickly began chemotherapy. By early 2025, he was declared cancer-free.
Coulier Credits Early Detection for Saving His Life
Reflecting on both diagnoses, Coulier delivered an emotional message about the importance of regular medical screenings.
“Early detection saved my life—not just the first time, but the second time as well,” he said. “I hope you’re getting your check-ups. I hope you get your colonoscopies and breast exams and prostate exams. They will save your life.”
A Beloved TV Icon Facing a New Challenge
Coulier remains one of the most beloved figures from Full House, having appeared in all 192 episodes between 1987 and 1995 before reprising his role in the Netflix reboot Fuller House, which ran for five seasons.
As he now undergoes treatment for tongue cancer, fans around the world continue to send messages of support—hoping for another successful recovery for the actor whose humour and warmth shaped one of television’s most cherished series.
