AT A GLANCE
Howard's Imagine Entertainment is also involved in Theme Parks through Universal Studios
Howard would have been an astronaut if not an entertainer
Imagine Entertainment is one of Hollywood's most stable and profitable indie production companies
Howard and Brian Grazer have been exclusive partners since they formed Imagine Entertainment
It's no secret that success in Hollywood is a tough and daunting task. It might, though, be a little easier when you grow up in the milieu of the Entertainment Industry and become a child star on your way to Showbiz Icon (although Jerry Mathers may have a differing opinion on this point).
Actor, Producer, Academy Award Winning Director and yes, even Studio Head Honcho Ron Howard is an excellent example of what's possible under perfect conditions for success.
Possessing the right formula early in life is rare, but the Academy Award Winning Director of A Beautiful Mind, also writer producer, and media mogul, Ron Howard has made a life of knowing what succeeds and how to make money in the process.
"For me, it's all about connecting with the right people and having meaningful and fun relationships. My partner Brian Grazer and I work great together. Throughout my life I've been able to surround myself with the right people who share the same vision I do" offers Howard, one of Hollywood's most affable and well respected power players.
It's hard to stay humble in Show Business, but the once iconoclast Opie is hard-fought to find a harsh word about him in a town known for its tumultuous nature.
Howard's skill in crafting quality content and building winning teams was instrumental in his success when launching and building Imagine Entertainment in 1986.
Through this company Howard and Grazer have forged a Titanic presence initially as one of Hollywood's most influential major production companies to now being considered a mini studio itself. Although Imagine enjoys a lucrative relationship with NBCUniversal, Imagine has projects in film, television, online content, publishing, and other media all over Hollywood and New York. And helming the vessel is Ron Howard.
"My success has come in allowing other people I work with to feel as responsible for the success of what we do as I am as the face in charge. Yes, I make the big decisions (or we, Brian and I) but I like to think we all do it together."
To what does Mr. Howard attribute his stellar success?
"I really love the creative process," offers the Happy Days Alumnus. "I can't see myself having done anything else with my life. I know it sounds cliché, but I love what I do. I think that has imbued every project and every business decision I've ever made. It's not easy. Sometimes, it's not even fun, (it usually is) but the process of creating entertainment that people like is the most rewarding thing I know. Even more than the money and the fame…Well, maybe not the money." He genuinely chortles as he shares.
Michael J. Herman is a best-selling author, syndicated columnist, and motivational speaker. –michaeljherman.com
