Dave Coulier Faces New Cancer Diagnosis: 'I'm Determined to Fight Through This' (Exclusive)

On December 2, Dave Coulier revealed he has been diagnosed with a new cancer, only months after overcoming non-Hodgkin lymphoma. The Full House actor spoke with PEOPLE about his current condition and ongoing treatment.

Nearly a year ago, Coulier celebrated being cancer-free following a grueling seven-month chemotherapy regimen for non-Hodgkin lymphoma, first detected in November 2024. However, during his six-month follow-up and PET scan, doctors discovered an abnormality near the base of his tongue.

Further testing confirmed a new cancer: p16 squamous carcinoma, a form of head and neck cancer. Coulier explained, I felt completely healthy, so the news was a total shock. Initially, he suspected it might be linked to his previous lymphoma, but it was unrelated.

If it werent for that PET scan, this cancer wouldnt have been caught so early, and I would have been in serious pain soon, he said. Strangely enough, Im now grateful for my first cancer because it led to early detection of this second one.

Coulier is undergoing 35 sessions of targeted radiation, with treatment concluding on December 31. He acknowledges the challenges, saying, Swallowing and speaking are difficult. I sound slurred, like Im intoxicated. He has lost about 10 pounds due to discomfort while eating, crediting his wife, Melissa Bring, for helping him maintain a supportive diet free from gluten and sugar.

Despite these difficulties, Coulier remains optimistic. This type of cancer has a high cure rate, he says. I feel fortunate because both cancers are very treatable. Early detection has literally saved my life twice. I hope people understand the importance of regular check-ups, including colonoscopies, mammograms, and prostate exams.

He shared the news during an interview on the Today show with Craig Melvin, emphasizing the strong prognosis and urging viewers to prioritize early detection.

Amid his recovery, Coulier is also focused on a new business venture inspired by his earlier cancer journey. He founded AwareMarket, an online marketplace offering toxin-free and holistic products. During my first cancer, I became very conscious about what I put in and on my body. I realized so many everyday items contained harmful chemicals, he said.

The platform offers products ranging from bedding to pet supplies, with all proceeds from a round-up feature going to cancer research. I hope to make it easier for people to choose safe products and support important causes, Coulier explained.

Beyond business, Coulier finds joy in becoming a grandfather and remains hopeful about his future. He credits his strong support system, including his son Luc and friend John Stamos, who has stayed by his side throughout his treatment. Stamos is like a brother to me. Even when he got COVID visiting, we stayed connected and laughed through it, Coulier recalled.

While he never intended to become a public advocate for cancer awareness, Coulier embraces the role. If sharing my experience helps save lives, Im proud to do it, he said.

Author: Caleb Jennings