Myth Busted: Did Ron Howard and Henry Winkler Have a Falling Out After Happy Days Ended?

Many fans of Happy Days have expressed curiosity and even some doubts about the personal relationship between Ron Howard and Henry Winkler. After Happy Days ended in 1984, there has been speculation and confusion about whether these two iconic actors had a falling out. However, the reality is quite different from these rumblings and misunderstandings. Let us delve into the truth behind this myth.

Facts and Fiction

No Falling Out after Happy Days Ended

The primary reason both Ron Howard and Donny Most (Henry Winkler's character in the show) left Happy Days in 1980 was not due to a falling out, but rather because both actors were transitioning towards more serious and diverse career paths. By 1980, they were no longer teenagers and were considered too old for the comedic roles they had been playing. Specifically, Ron Howard, at the age of 28, and Henry Winkler, at the age of 34, were looking for new challenges outside the realm of a long-running sitcom.

No Personal Dispute, Just Career Moves

Both actors expressed their intentions to take on more substantial roles and challenges. Ron Howard, known for his direction in films like A Beautiful Mind and Apollo 13, was interested in directing and producing films. Henry Winkler, also known for his breakout role as Fonzie, was looking to have a broader acting career outside of the series. These transitions were perfectly normal and did not indicate any personal dispute or falling out.

Friendly and Long-lasting Relationship

It's important to note that Ron Howard and Henry Winkler have maintained a close friendship since the beginning of Happy Days. In fact, their long-standing friendship has only grown over the years. Donny Most, Henry Winkler's co-star, made this abundantly clear when he revealed that both Howard and Winkler were friends from the very first season of the show, which began filming in 1973.

Not Fiction but Reality

One of the reasons for this doubt and confusion is a fictional event that transpired in a two-part 1983 episode of Happy Days. In the episode, Richie (played by Tom Bosley) returns from the Army and has a disagreement with Fonzie (Henry Winkler). However, this was purely fictional and the characters reconciled in the following episode. This was not a representation of the real-life relationship between the actors but rather a creative storyline for the show.

Additional Friendly Ties

Another indicator of the solid and long-standing friendship between Ron Howard and Henry Winkler is the fact that when Ron Howard welcomed his first child, Bryce Dallas Howard, he asked Henry Winkler to be her godfather. Winkler followed through by being a godparent not once, but three additional times. This gesture underscores their strong and enduring bond, further dispelling any notion of a falling out or estrangement.

In conclusion, the popular myth of Ron Howard and Henry Winkler having a falling out after Happy Days ended is simply a misunderstanding. The truth is that their departure from the show was purely career-related, and their friendship has only strengthened over the years. Their close relationship is a testament to the deep camaraderie formed in the entertainment industry and the enduring impact of Happy Days.