Stamos tearfully thanked his “Full House” co-star Jodie Sweetin for helping him when he hit rock bottom.
Actor John Stamos publicly thanked his Full House co-star Jodie Sweetin for being there when he hit rock bottom and pushing him to get sober.
Stamos was speaking for an audience at Los Angeles’ Skirball Cultural Center, where he presented her with the Experience, Strength and Hope Award.
Sweetin was being honored for her advocacy for the recovery community and her memoir, UnSweetined.
Stamos recounted how he got sober four years ago after hitting rock bottom and turned to Sweetin for guidance.
“It took me a long time, a long time disappointing everyone who cared about me, culminating in a terrible DUI where I could have killed somebody,” Stamos told the audience. “I hit rock bottom. Jodie lovingly allowed me to walk my own path and when I finally humbled myself to ask for your help, I realized that the perky little blabbermouth had become the master of wisdom and was right by my side during some of the most difficult days of my life.”
Sweetin, who herself is now eight years sober, helped by organizing 12-step meetings at Stamos’ house as well as on the set of Fuller House, Netflix’s sequel series to the original Full House.
“Thank god, my wife and my new son will only know me as a sober husband and father,” said Stamos. “This is Jodie’s legacy in my life.”
Stamos also shouted out Sweetin on Instagram, posting a photo from the Full House series and captioning it with his gratitude.
“Proud moment last night honoring @jodiesweetin at the Experience, Hope & Strength Awards. Who knew this little blonde scene-stealer in a side pony-tale would grow up and change so many lives. (Mine included),” he wrote. “Her sobriety is inspirational to say the least. Congrats Jodie on this award recognizing your extraordinary journey. You give so many people HOPE. Love you! UJ”
The signing of “UJ” likely means “Uncle Jessie,” referring to their characters’ relationship in Full House.
On stage, Sweetin had kind words in response.
“John, I’m so proud of you and it’s been the greatest thing to watch someone that you love have the light come back on again,” she spoke.
Last week, Sweetin spoke to The Fix’s John Lavitt about acting, sobriety, and social media in an exclusive interview.