Ron Howard Gives Credit to Henry Winkler for Boosting His Directing Career
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Ron Howard, the renowned actor and director, recently shared an exclusive insight with PEOPLE, revealing how his Happy Days costar, Henry Winkler, played a pivotal role in kickstarting his directing career.
The duo, who starred in the beloved sitcom Happy Days that aired from 1974 to 1984, shared a close bond both on and off the screen. Howard, now 72, portrayed Richie Cunningham, while Winkler, 79, captured hearts with his portrayal of the iconic character Fonzie. Their enduring friendship has seen Winkler take on the role of godfather to Howard’s daughter, the talented actress Bryce Dallas Howard.
During a FYC event for The Studio, a series in which Howard made a cameo appearance, he reminisced about his journey into directing. Howard revealed that he started directing between the third and fourth seasons of Happy Days. He spent his weekends renting equipment to create short films and even helmed his first movie, Grand Theft Auto, during a hiatus from the show.
The real turning point in Howard’s directing career came when Winkler agreed to star in the feature film Night Shift. Howard credits Winkler’s involvement in the comedy, alongside actors Michael Keaton and Shelley Long, as the catalyst for greenlighting the movie. Night Shift marked a significant achievement for Howard and paved the way for further success in Hollywood.
Reflecting on Winkler’s pivotal role, Howard expressed his gratitude, stating, “Henry was always so supportive, and when Henry said yes to Night Shift, that’s what got that movie greenlit. He played a hand in helping my dream ultimately come true, which was to be a studio, Hollywood, feature director.”
Despite the challenges he faced and the pressure to prove himself in the industry, Howard’s collaboration with Winkler proved to be a game-changer. Their enduring friendship has stood the test of time, with Winkler continuing to be a source of inspiration and support for Howard and his family.
In a touching tribute to Winkler, Bryce Dallas Howard described him as a “magical” and caring individual who has played a significant role in her life. She fondly referred to Winkler as a father figure and highlighted his charisma and charm.
Winkler, in turn, opened up about his own career challenges post-Happy Days, emphasizing the struggles he faced in securing roles beyond his iconic portrayal of Fonzie. However, his resilience and talent have seen him carve out a successful path in the entertainment industry.
As Howard continues to explore diverse projects, including his recent cameo in The Studio, he remains grateful for the unwavering support of mentors like Winkler. The dynamic duo’s bond serves as a testament to the lasting impact of friendship and collaboration in the ever-evolving world of entertainment. Their camaraderie is a shining example of how mutual respect and support can pave the way for enduring success in the competitive realm of Hollywood.