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Despite that isolated experience, Winkler continues to speak fondly about the people who made *Happy Days* such a success. He has frequently praised Ron Howard, who portrayed Richie Cunningham before becoming one of Hollywood’s most respected directors.
Winkler shared one memory that has stayed with him throughout his career. During filming, he became frustrated with a difficult scene and started hitting his script. Howard quietly stepped in to offer advice that left a lasting impression.
“I was having trouble with a scene. I started punching my script,”
Howard calmly guided him away from the set and reminded him to remember the writers’ efforts.
“You know, the writers are working as hard as they can. Let’s not hit our script.”
Winkler said he never forgot those words.
“Ron, I will never hit my script as long as I live. And he is, and was, even at that tender age, so wise. He just is easy, he just kind of goes through life and he’s an amazing fellow.”
