Ron Howard began his career at a young age, starring as Opie on “The Andy Griffith Show” at age 5 and later as Richie Cunningham on “Happy Days.” Despite his success as an actor, he always aspired to direct. “I was an actor who dreamed of being a director,” he told People. Howard transitioned behind the camera, directing and producing acclaimed films such as “Apollo 13,” “A Beautiful Mind,” and “The Da Vinci Code.”

Ron and Cheryl Howard have been married for 49 years, meeting in high school and marrying in 1975. Their daughters, Bryce Dallas Howard and Paige Howard, followed them into show business. Ron credits Cheryl with being “unbelievably supportive,” attributing their long-lasting marriage to strong communication and mutual growth.

The couple celebrated the 50th anniversary of their first date in November 2020, recreating it with a pizza from their local take-out place and driving the same ’70 VW Bug. Ron shared on Instagram, “It runs great. So do we.” For their 46th wedding anniversary in June 2021, Ron posted a sweet photo, calling himself “a lucky fella.”

Ron believes their successful marriage involves effective communication and a bit of luck. He said, “There’s no technique… communication is really important.” Their strong relationship extends to their children, with Bryce noting that she and her husband model their parenting style after her parents’. Ron and Cheryl’s enduring love and supportive family life serve as an inspiring example.