Candace Cameron Bure Reflects on Her 10-Year Break from Acting

Candace Cameron Bure recently opened up about her regrets surrounding her decade-long hiatus from acting. At 49, Bure stepped back from the entertainment scene after her popular show “Full House” concluded, choosing instead to dedicate herself to raising her three children and supporting her husband, Valeri Bure, during his NHL career.

In a recent episode of her podcast, Bure expressed some mixed feelings about that period. “Stepping away was a sophisticated choice for me, focused on my kids,” she shared. “I fell in love with that time, but looking back now, I sometimes wish I could do it over. My life was slower, yet my heart wasn’t fully in it.” It’s interesting how home life can be fulfilling yet also leave you feeling a bit detached.

She went on to say, “It wasn’t consistent. I grew a lot during those years, but I felt as though I missed meaningful moments with my kids. Even when I was present—like at hockey practices or craft events at school—my mind was wandering, thinking about the next step.” It’s a relatable struggle, wanting to savor the moment but also feeling the pressure to plan ahead.

Bure shot to fame as DJ Tanner on “Full House,” beginning her career at just 11 years old. Following her marriage to NHL player Val Bure in 1996, they started a family shortly thereafter with the birth of their daughter Natasha in 1998, and sons Lev and Maksim in 2000 and 2002.

Throughout those family years, her acting work dwindled, limited mostly to guest appearances and TV films. In June 2024, during an episode of “Full House Rewind,” alongside co-star Dave Coulier, she discussed how her career took a backseat during those hectic family years. “We moved around a lot because of Val’s job, and after kids came along, I decided to commit fully to family life,” Bure mentioned. “So, I took a break from acting.” It’s a testament to the often unrecognized sacrifices made by parents juggling careers and family.

While she expressed gratitude for her career and the positive experiences she had, Bure recognized the contrast between the comfort of her Hollywood journey and the troubling narratives surrounding many child stars. “I understand there are many sad stories out there. I truly empathize with those experiences, but I’m grateful that wasn’t ours,” she reflected. It’s a bittersweet acknowledgment, recognizing her luck while honoring others’ challenges.

With a strengthened faith during her hiatus, she shared how focusing on her children and their spiritual development brought her closer to her own beliefs. “Staying home really deepened my relationship with God,” Bure explained. Her experience resonates with many who prioritize family, grappling with life’s shifts while seeking purpose.

In the end, Bure hints at a nuanced view of her past. Yes, she took a break to raise her kids, but there was also a pull to return when the time felt right. Life is complex, isn’t it? Choices often intertwine, leaving us with both what we cherish and the what-ifs that linger.