Ron Howard, the renowned Hollywood actor and director, has been a household name for decades. With a career that began at a tender age, he has achieved remarkable success in the film and television industry. But it’s not just his professional life that has stood the test of time — Howard has also been married to his wife Cheryl for nearly half a century, making them an inspiration to couples everywhere.
Born on March 1, 1954, in Duncan, Oklahoma, Howard embarked on his entertainment journey at an astonishingly young age. At just 18 months old, he appeared in his first film, “Frontier Woman,” and by the age of two, he made his stage debut in “The Seven Year Itch.” His adorable face and acting skills caught the attention of audiences, leading to his iconic role as Opie on “The Andy Griffith Show” from 1960 to 1968.
During his time on the show, Howard had unwavering support from his parents, who were also in the entertainment industry. They encouraged him to pursue his passion and fostered a sense of dedication within him.
“You don’t have to do other parts on other shows if you don’t want, but you’d have to keep doing this one,” they told him. It was clear to everyone that Howard was not only enjoying acting but was also exceptionally talented.
His fame skyrocketed when he appeared in the 1962 musical film “The Music Man” and the 1973 hit “American Graffiti.” The latter also featured other rising stars like Harrison Ford, Richard Dreyfuss, and Cindy Williams, who would become Howard’s future colleagues. However, it was his role as Richie Cunningham in the beloved TV series “Happy Days” from 1974 to 1984 that solidified his status as a household name.
“Happy Days” spawned popular spin-off shows like “Laverne & Shirley” and “Mork & Mindy,” further cementing Howard’s influence on the entertainment industry. Amidst all this success, Howard met his high school sweetheart, Cheryl Alley, in 1970.
Their connection was instantaneous, and they have been inseparable ever since. Howard fondly recalls, “I met her, and there was never anybody else. She’s unbelievably supportive and always has been. Our compatibility has endured through all kinds of experiences.”
Throughout their 49 years of marriage, Howard and Cheryl have navigated the ups and downs of life together. They are proud parents to four children and doting grandparents to six. Their daughter Bryce, an accomplished actor, has made a name for herself with roles in movies like “Jurassic World” and “The Help.”
Paige, another talented daughter, made her feature film debut in “Adventureland” and has continued to pursue acting. Their son Reed is a professional golfer, while their daughter Jocelyn prefers to keep a low profile.
In addition to being Howard’s loving wife, Cheryl is a published author and holds degrees in both psychology and screenwriting. Her support and presence have become a superstition for Howard, who considers her his “good luck charm.”
He ensures that she appears in every film he makes, even if it’s just a small cameo. This tradition is a testament to their enduring love and commitment.
As they approach their 49th anniversary, Howard credits communication as the secret behind their long-lasting marriage. Their ability to openly and honestly communicate with each other has strengthened their bond through the years. Their story serves as a reminder that love and commitment can withstand the test of time, and that true partnership is the foundation of a successful and fulfilling relationship.
So here’s to Ron Howard and Cheryl — a Hollywood power couple whose love story continues to inspire us all.
