Ron Howard was born on January 1, 1954 in Duncan, Oklahoma. He showed an early interest in acting and began his career at a young age. Howard's father, Rance Howard, was an actor, director, and writer, which inspired Ron to pursue a career in entertainment.
Howard's big break came when he was cast as Opie Taylor, the son of Sheriff Andy Taylor, played by his real-life father Andy Griffith, in the popular television show The Andy Griffith Show. His performance as a child actor garnered critical acclaim and won the hearts of audiences across America.
After his success on The Andy Griffith Show, Howard continued to build his career in television, landing the role of Richie Cunningham on the hit series Happy Days. His portrayal of the all-American teenager endeared him to fans and solidified his status as a rising star in Hollywood.
Howard transitioned behind the camera and found success as a director and producer. His directorial debut, Night Shift, received positive reviews and set the stage for his future endeavors. Howard went on to direct a string of successful films, including Apollo 13, The Da Vinci Code, and Frost/Nixon.
One of Howard's most acclaimed films is A Beautiful Mind, which earned him an Academy Award for Best Director. The biographical drama, starring Russell Crowe, tells the story of mathematician John Nash and his struggles with mental illness. The film also won the Academy Award for Best Picture.
Howard married Cheryl Alley on June 7, 1975, and the couple has four children together. Their daughter Bryce Dallas Howard followed in her father's footsteps and became a successful actress in her own right.
Aside from his work in film and television, Howard is also known for his role as executive producer and narrator on the beloved comedy series Arrested Development. The show garnered a cult following and cemented Howard's reputation as a versatile talent in the industry.
Howard's production company, Imagine Entertainment, which he co-founded with Brian Grazer, has produced a diverse range of projects, including the TV series 24 and Friday Night Lights, as well as the films 8 Mile and American Gangster. Imagine Entertainment continues to be a powerhouse in the entertainment industry, with Howard at the helm.
Ron Howard's career has spanned decades and has seen him achieve success both in front of and behind the camera. His talent, versatility, and dedication to his craft have solidified his status as a Hollywood legend.