United Kingdom, Oct. 21 -- Ron Howard had to disguise himself in public to avoid being recognised by fans due to the popularity of Happy Days.

The actor played wholesome protagonist Richie Cunningham in the ABC sitcom from 1974 until 1980, but away from filming, the star had to adopt a tougher look that resembled Henry Winkler's rebellious Arthur "The Fonz" Fonzarelli to go about his life without being recognised by viewers.

Appearing at the 2026 Hamptons International Film Festival, Ron, now 72, recalled: "It did get to the point, the show was so popular that - it sounds a little ridiculous, but you'd sort of have to wear little disguises and things.

"If you wanted to go to a mall or go to Disneyland or go out to the movies even, you ...