Ron Howard, a prominent figure in Hollywood, once faced a pivotal decision during his early career that he approached with caution. Despite the success he ultimately attained as a director, he had the opportunity to direct episodes of the beloved sitcom “Happy Days,” where he starred as Richie Cunningham. However, he chose not to seize that opportunity, fearing the pressure it would bring and the potential ramifications of a subpar performance.
In a recent appearance on Conan O’Brien’s podcast, Howard shared his thoughts from that time. He believed it would be unfair to his fellow cast members to direct them as a relative newcomer, preferring the expertise of the seasoned director Jerry Paris. Howard recalled his apprehension, saying, “What if I whiff?” The pressure of directing an episode could have been immense, especially if it resulted in a less-than-stellar outcome, leading to questions about his capability.
Choosing to delay his directorial debut ultimately bore fruit when he received an offer from Roger Corman, the famed B-movie producer. Corman’s initial suggestion for Howard was to direct a vehicle similar to his previous car crash comedy concept, which ultimately led to his successful feature film debut with “Grand Theft Auto.” This strategic move set the stage for a remarkable career that included directing acclaimed films like “Apollo 13,” “A Beautiful Mind,” and “Rush.”
This narrative sheds light on Howard’s career trajectory and underscores the importance of timing and decision-making in the entertainment industry. In retrospect, Howard’s reluctance to rush into directing may have safeguarded his future opportunities and allowed him to cultivate his unique filmmaking voice.
Howard’s story serves as a reminder that patience and thoughtful decision-making can often lead to greater successes, transforming what might initially seem like a missed opportunity into a significant stepping stone for a fruitful career.