Ron Howard has been a prominent figure in Hollywood for nearly his entire 70 years of life. Starting his career as a child actor, he has since become a legendary filmmaker and television icon. But beyond his professional achievements, Howard also exemplifies lasting love, having been married to his wife, Cheryl, for nearly 50 years.
Here’s a closer look at Howard’s decades-long career and enduring marriage.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born on March 1, 1954, in Duncan, Oklahoma, Ron Howard’s path to stardom began almost immediately. At just 18 months old, he made his film debut in Frontier Woman and by age two, he was on stage in The Seven Year Itch.
His breakthrough came with his role as Opie on The Andy Griffith Show (1960-1968), where his freckle-faced charm made him a household name. Through it all, Howard’s parents, who were also in the entertainment industry, provided him with support and guidance. “You don’t have to take other roles, but you’d have to keep doing this one,” they advised. Howard took their words to heart and, more importantly, discovered that he genuinely enjoyed acting.
The “Happy Days” of Hollywood
While still on The Andy Griffith Show, Howard appeared in the 1962 hit musical The Music Man. He later starred in the 1973 film American Graffiti, sharing the screen with future stars like Harrison Ford and Richard Dreyfuss.
In 1974, Howard was cast as Richie Cunningham in Garry Marshall’s Happy Days, a show that became a massive hit, running from 1974 to 1984. The show also inspired iconic spin-offs like Laverne & Shirley and Mork & Mindy.
High School Sweetheart
Before his Happy Days fame, Howard met Cheryl Alley, his high school sweetheart, in 1970. The couple tied the knot in 1975. Reflecting on their relationship, Howard told People, “I met her, and there was never anybody else. She’s been unbelievably supportive and always has been. Our compatibility has endured through all kinds of experiences.”
On the 50th anniversary of their first date, Howard celebrated with a heartwarming Instagram post, sharing a photo of himself in socks adorned with Cheryl’s face. He even mentioned that they drove in the same 1970 VW Bug that he used to pick her up on their first date.
His ‘Good Luck Charm’
Cheryl has appeared in many of Howard’s projects, including a cameo as herself in Arrested Development, which Howard produced and narrated. Speaking with the Television Academy, Ron referred to Cheryl as his “good luck charm,” noting that she has a small role in every film he makes.
“At a certain point, I became very superstitious about making sure she’s at least identifiable in one frame,” Howard said. “They don’t have to be big cameos, but she’s gotta be in there.”
In addition to being Howard’s good luck charm, Cheryl is a published author with a degree in psychology and a master’s in screenwriting. The couple has four children—daughter Bryce, twins Paige and Jocelyn, and son Reed—as well as six grandchildren.
The Secret to Longevity
As they approach their 49th wedding anniversary on June 7, Howard credits “communication” as the key to their lasting marriage. “There’s no technique, no tactic, other than communication is really important,” he shared with People. “You have to learn to communicate and have difficult conversations in constructive ways. Beyond that, there’s an element of luck because people either grow together or they don’t.”
Ron Howard’s career and personal life serve as a testament to resilience, love, and lasting success. From his early days as a child star to his work as an acclaimed director and producer, Howard has consistently demonstrated talent and dedication.
What’s your favorite film or TV show from this incredibly talented man? Share your thoughts and join the conversation!