David Spade, the well-known actor and comedian, recently revisited his early career during an insightful conversation with Esquire for their feature “What I’ve Learned.” The 61-year-old star recounted one of his earliest auditions — a chance to play Joey Gladstone on the beloved sitcom “Full House.” During the discussion, he shared the ups and downs of auditioning, reflecting on how the trajectory of his career could have taken a different path had he landed the role.
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Spade confirmed the truth of the rumour when host Michael Sebastian asked him about his audition for Joey, stating, “That’s not a total lie.” The actor reminisced about the time he first moved to Los Angeles, noting that the audition came early in his career when he felt he was gaining momentum. Although he struggled to recall the audition in detail, he mentioned a humorous scene revolving around Joey juggling household chores, a signature element of his character. However, Spade was quick to dismiss the idea that he was ever truly in the running, saying, “Let’s just say I safely didn’t get that close.”
The role of Joey ultimately went to comedian Dave Coulier, who became famous for his portrayal of the upbeat family friend of the Tanner clan on the show. “Full House” dominated television screens for eight seasons from 1987 to 1995, featuring a cast that also included Bob Saget, John Stamos, Candace Cameron Bure, and the Olsen twins, Mary-Kate and Ashley. The series left an indelible mark on pop culture and has retained a devoted fan base long after its conclusion.
In his conversation, Spade further reflected on the significance of these early auditions in shaping his career. If he had secured either the role of Joey or a character in the acclaimed series “In the Heat of the Night”, which ran from 1988 to 1995, he believed that his professional journey would have been markedly different. “What a different career,” Spade lamented. He pointed out that “Full House” enjoyed a lengthy run, potentially sidelining his comedic aspirations.
Despite acknowledging the potential twists his career path might have taken, Spade highlighted the emotional turmoil he experienced during his early auditions. “When you’re not getting stuff, that stuff really roughed me up, like mentally,” he said, reflecting on the psychological toll of rejection in the competitive world of acting.
Coulier, who secured the role of Joey, has shared his own experiences regarding the late Bob Saget during appearances at fan conventions. At a recent ’90s Con, he reminisced about the supportive nature of their friendship, recalling how Saget once gave him his address after a stand-up show, encouraging him to reach out for help. When Coulier moved to Los Angeles without much of a safety net, Saget’s warm hospitality became evident as he invited Coulier to crash at his apartment, offering a lifeline to a fellow comedian in need.
Over a decade later, the pair found themselves reunited on “Full House.” Coulier mused about the irony of their friendship, stating, “Then art imitated life,” as his character moved into Danny Tanner’s home — a plotline that mirrored their real-life friendship. He playfully noted that during his time as Saget’s guest, he ended up sleeping in a small alcove, a memory that would later inspire the show’s storyline.
Both actors, alongside the rest of the cast, have cherishingly maintained their bonds over the years, often referring to one another as family. This enduring connection attests to the impact that “Full House” had on its cast and its viewers alike, fostering relationships that continue to thrive long after the show’s finale.
As David Spade reflects on his journey, it is clear that while he may not have played Joey Gladstone, he has forged a successful career in comedy and acting. His candid reflections serve as a reminder of the unpredictability of the entertainment industry and the resilience required to navigate its many challenges.