Ronald William Howard is an American director, producer, screenwriter, and actor. He first came to prominence as a child actor, guest-starring in several television series, including an episode of
The Twilight Zone. He gained national attention for playing young Opie Taylor, the son of Sheriff Andy Taylor in the sitcom
The Andy Griffith Show from 1960 through 1968. During this time, he also appeared in the musical film
The Music Man (1962), a critical and commercial success. He was credited as
Ronny Howard in his film and television appearances from 1959 to 1973. Howard was cast in one of the lead roles in the coming-of-age film
American Graffiti (1973), and became a household name for playing Richie Cunningham in the sitcom
Happy Days, a role he would play from 1974 to 1980.