Ron Howard Thought His Marriage ‘Shouldn’t Have Worked’ but It Is Still Strong after 49 Years

Film director Ron Howard and his wife, Cheryl Howard, are celebrating their 49th wedding anniversary. In an interview, Ron shared why their marriage of over four decades has surpassed his expectations and reminisced about being smitten with Cheryl since their high school days.

Ron and Cheryl, high school sweethearts, married on June 7, 1975. Reflecting on this milestone in an interview on “The View,” Ron revealed what initially attracted him to Cheryl. They met when Ron was a junior at John Burroughs High School in Burbank, California. The Oscar-winning director shared there was an instant connection when they first laid eyes on each other.

When asked if his charisma landed him the gorgeous Cheryl, Ron replied that he wasn’t even a “cool kid” back then. Despite his popularity, he was introverted and awkward, sometimes ridiculed by others. Ron was drawn to Cheryl’s zest for life, describing her as full of authentic energy and joy. He emotionally added that she still possesses that same vigor.

Over the years, Ron has often spoken lovingly about his wife and their marriage. In October 2013, he discussed his marriage on HuffPost Live, expressing disbelief at how far they’ve come. He felt fortunate to have met Cheryl as teenagers, acknowledging that their young marriage shouldn’t have worked but has thrived.

In June 2019, Ron shared that the secret to their long-lasting marriage is communication. Celebrating their 44th anniversary, he emphasized the importance of constructive conversations. Beyond communication, Ron credited luck for their enduring bond, stating that people either grow together or they don’t, and no one can force it.

Ron described how Cheryl has been a rock throughout his life and career. He praised her unwavering support and their compatibility, which has endured through many ups and downs. Now both 70 years old, Cheryl and Ron love celebrating their milestones together, often sharing these moments on social media. In 2020, they celebrated the 50th anniversary of their first date with a nostalgic trip to a local pizza joint in the same car Ron used to pick Cheryl up 50 years ago.

Ron and Cheryl’s love extends to their four children—Bryce, Reed, Paige, and Jocelyn—whom they raised in Greenwich, Connecticut, away from Hollywood’s prying eyes. They are also grandparents to six grandchildren. Cheryl, a California native, is a talented writer and has authored several books. She also appeared in some of Ron’s films.

Ron, a former child star known for his roles on “The Andy Griffith Show” and “Happy Days,” found his passion behind the camera. His latest film documentary, “Pavarotti,” tells the life story of the famed opera singer. Together, Ron and Cheryl continue to support each other in their remarkable journey through life and love.