Ron Howard Then and Now

Ron Howard Then

Ron Howard, born on March 1, 1954, in Duncan, Oklahoma, emerged from a family deeply rooted in the entertainment industry.

His parents, Jean Speegle Howard and Rance Howard laid the groundwork for his future success. 

Jean was an actress, while Rance worked as a director, writer, and actor, exposing Ron to the world of film and theater from a young age. 

Growing up alongside his younger brother Clint, who also found success in acting, Ron was destined for a career in Hollywood.

In 1958, the Howard family relocated to Hollywood, California, immersing themselves in the heart of the entertainment industry. 

They later settled in Burbank, where Ron spent a significant portion of his formative years. 

Despite the transient nature of their early years, the Howards remained connected to their craft and surroundings. 

Ron attended John Burroughs High School, where his passion for storytelling and film began to flourish.

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Following high school, Ron Howard pursued further education at the prestigious School of Cinematic Arts at the University of Southern California (USC). 

Although he embarked on the journey toward a formal education in film, his destiny seemed to lie elsewhere. 

Despite not completing his college degree, his time at USC provided invaluable experiences and connections that would shape his future career in the film industry.

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Ron Howard’s decision not to graduate from college did not hinder his trajectory; instead, it propelled him into the heart of Hollywood. 

His early exposure to the industry, combined with his innate talent and determination, paved the way for a remarkable career as a director, producer, and actor.

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Ron Howard Acting Career

Ron Howard’s career is a testament to his multifaceted talents and enduring impact on both the big and small screens. 

His journey began at a remarkably young age, with his first screen appearance at just 18 months old. 

Early roles in television series and films paved the way for his breakout as Opie Taylor on “The Andy Griffith Show” in 1960, where he charmed audiences for eight years.

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During this time, Howard also showcased his acting skills in various films, including “The Music Man” and “The Courtship of Eddie’s Father.”

However, Howard’s interest in storytelling extended beyond acting. Despite his success in front of the camera, he harbored a passion for directing. 

After a brief stint in college, he made his directorial debut with “Grand Theft Auto” in 1977, marking the beginning of a prolific directing career.

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His early successes, including “Night Shift,” “Splash,” and “Parenthood,” demonstrated his knack for blending humor with heart.

It was with “Apollo 13” in 1995 that Howard solidified his reputation as a director capable of delivering both critical acclaim and box office success. 

The gripping retelling of the ill-fated Apollo mission earned Howard widespread recognition. 

He continued to diversify his portfolio, directing everything from biopics like “A Beautiful Mind” to thrillers such as “The Da Vinci Code” series.

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In addition to feature films, Howard delved into documentary filmmaking, exploring various aspects of music, history, and human resilience. 

His documentaries, including “Made in America” and “Pavarotti,” showcased his ability to capture the essence of his subjects with depth and sensitivity.

In 1986, Howard co-founded Imagine Entertainment with Brian Grazer, a venture that expanded his influence beyond directing.

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Imagine Entertainment became a powerhouse production company, responsible for both acclaimed films and television series, including hits like “24” and “Arrested Development.”

Howard’s commitment to storytelling across different mediums is evident in his body of work. 

From directing blockbuster films to producing compelling documentaries, he has continually pushed boundaries and entertained audiences worldwide.

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His legacy extends beyond the screen, as seen in his memoir “The Boys: A Memoir of Hollywood and Family,” co-written with his brother Clint, offering insight into their experiences in the entertainment industry.

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Ron Howard Movies

• Frontier Woman (1955)
• The Journey (1959)
• The Music Man (1962)
• The Courtship of Eddie’s Father (1963)
• The Wild Country (1971)
• American Graffiti (1973)
• The Shootist (1976)
• Grand Theft Auto (1977)
• The Spikes Gang (1974)
• Eat My Dust! (1976)
• More American Graffiti (1979) – Voice only
• The Time Crystal (1981) – TV movie
• As a Director (Feature Films):
• Grand Theft Auto (1977)
• Night Shift (1982)
• Splash (1984)
• Cocoon (1985)
• Gung Ho (1986)
• Willow (1988)
• Parenthood (1989)
• Backdraft (1991)
• Far and Away (1992)
• The Paper (1994)
• Apollo 13 (1995)
• Ransom (1996)
• EDtv (1999)
• How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)
• A Beautiful Mind (2001)
• The Missing (2003)
• Cinderella Man (2005)
• The Da Vinci Code (2006)
• Frost/Nixon (2008)
• Angels & Demons (2009)
• The Dilemma (2011)
• Rush (2013)
• In the Heart of the Sea (2015)
• Inferno (2016)
• Solo: A Star Wars Story (2018)
• Hillbilly Elegy (2020)
• Thirteen Lives (2022)
• Wedding Season (2022)
• Downfall: The Case Against Boeing (2022)
• Lucy And Desi (2022)
• Eden (2024)
• Jim Henson Idea Man (2024)
• Frida (2024)

Ron Howard’s Wife and Children

Ron Howard’s personal life has been a source of stability and inspiration throughout his illustrious career. 

He married Cheryl Alley on June 7, 1975, and their union has been a cornerstone of his success. 

Cheryl, now known as Cheryl Howard Crew, transitioned from her role as a wife and mother to becoming a respected writer.

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Together, Ron and Cheryl have nurtured a family filled with talent and creativity. 

They are the proud parents of four children, each carving their own paths in the entertainment industry. 

Their eldest, Bryce Dallas Howard, has made a significant mark as both an actress and director, following in her father’s footsteps.

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Bryce’s rise to prominence has added another dimension to the Howard family legacy, showcasing their collective passion for storytelling. 

With Cheryl’s support and guidance, the Howard family continues to thrive, leaving an indelible imprint on Hollywood.

Beyond their professional achievements, the Howards have maintained a close-knit bond, weathering the highs and lows of life together.

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Cheryl’s role as both a supportive partner to Ron and a guiding force in their children’s lives has been invaluable. 

Her journey from wife and mother to a respected writer reflects the resilience and creativity that define the Howard family. 

Together, they stand as a testament to the power of love, family, and shared dreams in the entertainment industry.

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Ron Howard Now

At 70 years old, Ron Howard stands as a titan in the world of entertainment, boasting a career that spans over six decades. 

Starting as a child actor, Howard seamlessly transitioned into directing films, leaving an indelible mark on the industry. 

His versatile talents as a director, producer, screenwriter, and actor have earned him numerous prestigious awards and accolades.

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Throughout his illustrious career, Ron Howard has continually showcased his mastery behind the camera, bringing compelling stories to life with depth and emotion. 

His ability to capture the human experience on screen has resonated with audiences worldwide. 

With two Academy Awards, four Emmy Awards, two Golden Globe Awards, and a Grammy Award to his name, Howard’s contributions to film and television are unparalleled.

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In 2024, Ron Howard continues to captivate audiences with his latest project, “Frida,” adding another chapter to his already impressive filmography. 

As an American actor, director, and producer, Howard’s influence extends far beyond the silver screen. 

His net worth of $200 million reflects both his commercial success and critical acclaim, underscoring his status as one of Hollywood’s most respected and accomplished figures.

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Ron Howard’s enduring legacy serves as an inspiration to aspiring filmmakers and actors alike, demonstrating the power of passion, dedication, and creativity in the entertainment industry. 

As he continues to push boundaries and tell captivating stories, Howard remains a true icon whose contributions will be celebrated for generations to come.

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