Happy Days star Ron Howard, 72, looks worlds away from 80s fame in rare new photos

Ron struck a pose for the camera in a black and white snapshot via his Instagram page that captured the actor-turned-director with a grin, while enjoying a mountain view during a weekend stay in Telluride. The Happy Days star was there with his production company Imagine Entertainment, celebrating his 2026 Netflix documentary film, Avedon, following the life and work of American photographer Richard Avedon. 

Along with his own snapshot of the exciting weekend, Ron shared photos of an eager audience, a sweet selfie moment and a dramatic moment as the film screened to an expectant crowd.

The Apollo 13 director has found success behind the camera, with major successes including A Beautiful Mind (2001), Frost/Nixon (2008) and Solo: A Star Wars Story (2018). His more recent credits include Eden (2024), upcoming documentary Avedon (2026) and 2027 film Alone at Dawn, starring Adam Driver and Anne Hathaway.

Ron has been critically recognised for his directing work, earning an Academy Award for Best Picture and Best Director for A Beautiful Mind, two Golden Globes for his acting work on Happy Days as well as the National Medal of Arts in 2003. He also has two stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, honouring his acting and directorial legacies.

Before his career behind the lens, Ron was up front as an actor on Happy Days, starring as Richie Cunningham on the beloved sitcom from 1974 until its seventh season in 1980. He starred alongside Henry Winkler, Erin Moran and Anson Williams.

While Richie was a core part of the Happy Days gang, Ron felt called to pursue his true passion: directing. However, he didn't  forget his sitcom start and rejoined the on-screen family for special episodes like Joanie and Chachi's wedding in the finale. 

Ron Howard played Sheriff Andy Taylor's son Opie on The Andy Griffith Show. Together with his Aunt Bee, Opie and his father spent very little time solving crime. 

After working on all eight seasons as Opie Taylor between 1960 and 1968, Ron continued to act and study. Between Andy Griffith and Happy Days, he appeared on The Smith Family, The Waltons, Daniel Boone and Gentle Ben. 

Ron and his wife Cheryl met while still at high school, with Ron proposing three times before Cheryl said yes. The pair tied the knot in 1975, five years after they went on their first date.

At the time, Cheryl was prioritizing her education and went on to find success as a writer. She was awarded a bachelor's degree in psychology as well as a master's degree in screenwriting.