Ron Howard, an American actor, director, and producer, has built an iconic career spanning over six decades in the entertainment industry. As of 2025, Howard has a net worth of approximately $200 million, thanks to his prolific work both behind and in front of the camera. From child star to Academy Award-winning director, Howard’s influence in Hollywood is undeniable.
Early Life and Acting Career
Born on March 1, 1954, in Duncan, Oklahoma, Ronald William Howard was introduced to show business early through his parents, Jean Speegle Howard and Rance Howard, both of whom were actors. Raised alongside his brother, Clint Howard, Ron’s journey began in Hollywood after the family moved to California in 1958.
Ron Howard’s acting career took off when he landed the role of Opie Taylor on the iconic sitcom “The Andy Griffith Show” at the age of six. He portrayed Opie for all eight seasons of the show, which established him as a beloved child star. In 1973, he transitioned into young adult roles with George Lucas’ “American Graffiti,” followed by another breakout role as Richie Cunningham in the hit series “Happy Days,” which aired from 1974 to 1980.
Directorial Success and Hollywood Transition
Howard shifted focus from acting to directing in 1977 with his debut film “Grand Theft Auto.” He solidified his place as a talented director with the comedy “Night Shift” (1982), followed by critical and commercial successes such as “Splash” (1984), “Cocoon” (1985), “Willow” (1988), “Parenthood” (1989), and “Backdraft” (1991).
The 1995 blockbuster “Apollo 13,” starring Tom Hanks, marked a major milestone, earning Howard widespread acclaim. He later directed “A Beautiful Mind” (2001), which won him two Academy Awards for Best Director and Best Picture. His impressive resume also includes “The Da Vinci Code” (2006), “Cinderella Man” (2005), “Rush” (2013), and “Solo: A Star Wars Story” (2018).
In 2022, Howard directed “Thirteen Lives,” a survival drama for Prime Video, and began work on “The Shrinking of Treehorn,” his first animated feature.
Imagine Entertainment and Producing Work
In 1985, Howard co-founded Imagine Entertainment with Brian Grazer. The company became a powerhouse in Hollywood, producing numerous successful films like “8 Mile” (2002) and “Friday Night Lights” (2004), and hit television shows such as “24,” “Felicity,” and “Empire.”
Howard’s creative imprint is evident on the cult-favorite series “Arrested Development,” for which he served as executive producer, narrator, and even portrayed a fictionalized version of himself.
Awards and Honors
Ron Howard’s accolades include multiple Academy Awards, Golden Globes, and Primetime Emmy Awards. In 2003, he received the National Medal of Arts, and in 2013, he was inducted into the Television Hall of Fame, cementing his status as one of Hollywood’s most influential figures.
Personal Life and Family
Howard married Cheryl Alley in 1975, and they remain together to this day. Cheryl, who now writes under the name Cheryl Howard Crew, has been a constant presence in Ron’s life and has occasionally appeared in cameo roles in his films.
The couple has four children, including Bryce Dallas Howard, a successful actress and director known for her work in “Jurassic World” and “The Help.” Ron Howard, now 70 years old, frequently credits his wife and children for grounding him amid the whirlwind of show business.
Real Estate Investments
Howard’s wealth is not just a product of his Hollywood projects but also his real estate portfolio. In 2004, Ron and Cheryl purchased a luxury apartment in New York City’s prestigious Eldorado Building for $5.6 million and spent several million more on renovations. The apartment, listed for $12.5 million in 2017, remains in the family.
Additionally, the couple owns a second New York apartment purchased in 2002 for $712,000. In 2014, they sold a sprawling 33-acre lakefront estate in Greenwich, Connecticut, for $27.5 million. They also own an ocean-view apartment in Santa Monica, California, bought for $2.75 million in 2006.
A Lasting Legacy
Ron Howard’s career has been a blueprint for longevity and success in Hollywood. From his early days as Opie Taylor to becoming one of the most respected directors and producers in the industry, Howard’s influence continues to shape contemporary cinema and television.
With a net worth of $200 million and a diverse portfolio of critically acclaimed projects, Ron Howard’s story is one of enduring talent, strategic business ventures, and an unwavering commitment to storytelling.
As Howard continues to develop new projects through Imagine Entertainment and other ventures, his legacy as both an artist and a businessman will undoubtedly continue to grow.
