Ron Howard found fame early in life. Born on March 1, 1954, in Duncan, Oklahoma, he got his first acting job as a child. He played Opie Taylor on the Andy Griffith Show (1960-1968), an American classic, at the age of six. His comedic portrayal of Opie made him a household name, and the show ran for decades generating regular earnings and residual income from syndication.
After The Andy Griffith Show ended, Howard starred as Richie Cunningham on Happy Days (1974-1980). His salary as one of the main characters increased with each season as the show became a cultural phenomenon. Happy Days helped Howard secure early residuals as the show aired worldwide.
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Directing Career and Box Office Hits
Although Howard became famous as an actor, directing made him wealthier and solidified his reputation in Hollywood. His directorial debut was the modestly budgeted Grand Theft Auto (1977), which showed his potential behind the camera. Nevertheless, he had his breakthrough as a director with Splash (1984), a romantic comedy starring Tom Hanks. The film was a huge success, grossing over $69 million, and established Howard as a capable director.
Over the years, Howard directed some of Hollywood’s biggest blockbusters, many of which became financial juggernauts. Some of his notable films include Apollo 13 (1995), which grossed over $355 million worldwide, a Beautiful Mind (2001), for which he won an Academy Award for Best Director and Best Picture, and The Da Vinci Code (2006), which made $760 million worldwide. These movies generated big paychecks and backend profits for Howard.
Production Ventures: Imagine Entertainment
Ron Howard also co-founded Imagine Entertainment in 1986 with producer Brian Grazer. This production company became a major source of Howard’s income, producing several hit films and television shows. Imagine has produced some of Hollywood’s most successful and critically acclaimed projects, including Arrested Development (for which Howard won an Emmy as executive producer), 24, Friday Night Lights, and Empire.
The company has expanded beyond television and film into documentaries and other media. Howard’s role as a co-founder and producer helps him make money not just from directing fees but also from a cut of the company’s success.
Other Ventures and Endorsements
Howard also makes money from his voice-over work, endorsements, and guest appearances. He’s narrated many projects, including Arrested Development, which added to his steady income.
Smart Investments
Howard also has made money from financial investments. With his success as a director and producer, he has made sound business decisions which continue to pay dividends.
Estimated Net Worth
According to verified reports, Howard has an estimated net worth of $200 million.
Conclusion
From a child star on The Andy Griffith Show to one of Hollywood’s most successful directors and producers, Howard has built a successful career around his craft. The majority of his earnings come from acting, directing, producing, and his successful company Imagine Entertainment. Howard’s ability to switch from acting to filmmaking has made him a Hollywood legend and one of the wealthiest men in the industry.
