Short on time, so just a quick, rather rambling overview of my take on this one, which I thoroughly enjoyed. Its focus is on family and respect/responsibility, but lots of show biz insights, too.
This is probably the best celebrity memoir I've read. Those who grew up watching Ron and Clint grow up before their eyes on the "Andy Griffith Show" and beyond, will find much to enjoy and smile over. Sadly, particularly in the case of Clint, they'll also learn that the Howard boys' life wasn't all sunshine and easy street. Clint confronts his addiction to drugs and alcohol within and Ron shares his experiences breaking out of the stereotypical "nice guy" role he seemed to carry so easily. Despite his early acting success, he seemed focused on making movies, not staring in them, and it's both fascinating and a hoot to read his tales of his earliest movies, most starring family and a few friends. "Grand Theft Auto" was his big break, of course, but only came after appearing in "American Graffiti" and being cast as Richie in "Happy Days". All was not fun and games behind the scenes of even the latter, either, as Ron found himself slowly being edged out of his own show by the unexpected popularity of Henry Winkler's Fonzi role. To his credit, Winkler remains on of his best friends today, by the way, and flew cross country to attend Ron's wedding to Cheryl, also attended by Andy Griffith and Don Knotts.
Through it all, the emphasis is on family. Luckily for Ron and Clint, parents Rance and Jean Howard proved that being parents came first, not promoting their children's career. An actor himself, Rance's role in helping Ron and Clint learn to prepare as actors, to actually inhabit their character rather than just making cute faces and spouting lines that had no meaning to them, stands out. Rance and Jean were there every step of the way, saving the money Clint and Ron were making for their futures rather than spending it on themselves. Many other child stars cannot say the same thing, alas.
In any case, I found it particularly interesting to not just read about some of the little tricks of the trade that were normal to the young actors but to hear how entranced Ron was with the entire process at an early age. Even as a child, his dream seemed to be more targeted toward directing and producing than being the star. Look at him now! Clint never quite reached the acclaim his brother did but has a solid resume of acting jobs and, after getting sober, sounds like he is in a good place. The obvious affection and, yes, love the brothers share is evident throughout, as is their love and respect for their parents. And, oh, how sweet is it that Ron's wife, Cheryl, was his first real girlfriend. How un-Hollywood of you, Ron.
No comments:
Post a Comment