Ron Howard, the celebrated actor known for his role in ‘Happy Days’, is poised to welcome a bustling house full of family for the upcoming Christmas period. During an exclusive conversation at the DOC NYC Visionaries Lunch, the 72-year-old filmmaker shared insights into the festive plans with PEOPLE magazine.
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Howard expressed how important it is for his family, including his wife Cheryl Howard, their four adult children, and six grandchildren, to gather at their home for the winter celebrations. “We’re spread out a bit this year out of necessity. But everybody’s made a real point that, come hell or high water, the family’s showing up at our house at Christmas, which makes our day,” he stated.
According to Howard, the dynamic of family gatherings has become simpler over the years. He noted with relief that the stresses of planning and preparation have significantly diminished. “Everybody just shows up, and it happens,” he added, acknowledging the ease that comes with stepping into the role of a grandparent. This shift has allowed Howard to relax and enjoy the festivities without the burden of coordination.
Reflecting on his transition to grandparenthood, Howard highlighted the joy he and his wife have found in their new roles. In a previous interview last September at the YES Scholars 25th Anniversary Gala in Los Angeles, he described Cheryl as having evolved from a disciplined mother into an indulgent grandmother. “My wife Cheryl, who was always kind of a tough mom, has gone into full grandma mode,” he recounted with a hint of humour. Cheryl’s newfound leniency has surprised their children, prompting playful remarks about her relaxed approach to parenting now that they are adults.
Howard’s delight in becoming a grandparent is coupled with a sense of companionship as he spends quality time with his grandchildren, who range in age from teenagers to toddlers. He remarked on the diverse interests among his grandchildren, noting the variety of films they are introduced to. “They run quite the gamut. Some of them are just discovering The Grinch, while others are old enough to explore films like Ransom and Frost/Nixon,” he said, showcasing his enthusiasm for sharing his work with the younger generation.
Currently, Ron and Cheryl Howard’s family consists of four children. Their daughter, Bryce Dallas Howard, aged 44, is a mother to two children, son Theodore Norman and daughter Beatrice Jean. Bryce shares her children with husband Seth Gabel. Their twin daughters, Paige and Jocelyn, both aged 40, contribute to the Howard family’s expanding clan, as Jocelyn is the mother of three children: Quinn, Sawyer, and Elodie.
Moreover, their son Reed Cross Howard has one daughter, Aspen Leigh, whom he shares with his wife, Ashley. Therefore, the upcoming Christmas gathering promises to be a lively affair, filled with laughter, shared stories, and the warmth of family ties.
As the festive season approaches, Howard is clearly excited to create lasting memories with his family. He epitomizes the joys of family life and the pleasures that come with grandparenthood. With plans set for a memorable Christmas celebration, Ron Howard sets an example of how family values and love prevail amid the hustle and bustle of modern life.
For fans of Howard, and indeed anyone interested in the rich tapestry of family life, his reflections remind us of the importance of togetherness, particularly during the holiday season. As he prepares for an eventful Christmas, it is evident that the bonds of family remain at the heart of his happiness.
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