'Happy Days' Stars Look Totally Different Over 50 Years Later

Ron Howard began his career as a child actor on The Andy Griffith Show before portraying Richie Cunningham on Happy Days. His transformation from beloved teen actor to acclaimed filmmaker represents one of Hollywood's most impressive career evolutions. After departing Happy Days in 1980, Howard dedicated himself to directing, quickly establishing his reputation as a respected filmmaker.

Howard's directorial achievements include two Academy Awards for A Beautiful Mind, six Emmy Awards including recognition for Arrested Development, and numerous other accolades across a diverse filmography spanning comedies, dramas, and documentaries. With Brian Grazer, he co-founded Imagine Entertainment, which has grown into a powerhouse in both film and television production, cementing Howard's legacy as not merely a former child star but a genuine Hollywood visionary.

Henry Winkler created one of television's most iconic characters as Arthur "Fonzie" Fonzarelli, transforming a supporting role into the show's breakout character with his leather jacket and trademark "Ayyy!" catchphrase. Where many actors might have remained typecast after such a defining role, Winkler successfully expanded his career in multiple directions.

Following Happy Days, Winkler built a multifaceted career as a producer, director, and advocate for dyslexia awareness, drawing from his own experiences with the learning disability. He earned an Emmy Award in 2018 for his role in HBO's Barry and authored the popular Hank Zipzer children's book series featuring a protagonist with dyslexia. His ability to reinvent himself while maintaining the goodwill associated with the Fonz character showcases a masterclass in career longevity and evolution.

Donny Most created the memorable character Ralph Malph, known for his practical jokes and catchphrase "I still got it!" on Happy Days. While remembered primarily for this role, Most's post-show career has revealed surprising depth and artistic versatility.

Following the series, Most continued acting in various television roles while nurturing his passion for music, particularly swing and jazz standards. He eventually released a swing music album and established himself as a legitimate vocalist in this classic genre. Most's pursuit of this artistic passion alongside continued acting demonstrates how cast members often found meaningful creative outlets well beyond their Happy Days personas.

Marion Ross portrayed the quintessential TV mom Marion Cunningham on Happy Days, bringing warmth and wisdom to the Cunningham household. Her extraordinary career spans six decades, demonstrating remarkable longevity in an often youth-obsessed industry.

After Happy Days concluded, Ross worked steadily in television with notable appearances on shows like The Love Boat and Grey's Anatomy. Recent years have seen her focus primarily on voice acting work, including a return to her recurring role as Grandma SquarePants on SpongeBob SquarePants in 2024. Her enduring career stands as testimony to exceptional talent and the affection audiences have maintained for her characters across generations.

Anson Williams portrayed Potsie Weber, Richie's friend and singing talent at Arnold's Drive-In. Though his character was known for musical performances, Williams found his greatest professional success behind the camera after Happy Days concluded.

Williams established himself as a prolific television director, helming episodes of popular series including Melrose Place, Beverly Hills 90210, and Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. He has also ventured into politics, running for mayor of Ojai, California. This career evolution illustrates how technical and leadership skills developed during the show provided a foundation for entirely different professional pursuits.

Tom Bosley created the memorable character Howard Cunningham, the patient father figure at the center of the Happy Days family. His portrayal of "Mr. C" established him as one of television's most beloved dad characters.

After Happy Days, Bosley continued his television success with leading roles in Murder, She Wrote and Father Dowling Mysteries, demonstrating his appeal across different genres. Though he passed away in 2010 at age 83, his legacy in television history remains secure through his iconic fatherly performances and the warmth he brought to multiple successful series. His work continues to influence portrayals of television fathers and serves as a touchstone for family-centered programming.