Rance Howard

Rance Howard (born November 17, 1928 – January 15, 2017) was an American character actor whose career spanned over fifty years in film, television, and theater. Born in Duncan, Oklahoma, Howard appeared in hundreds of productions, becoming a familiar face in television and cinema, particularly known for his work in westerns, crime dramas, and character roles. He was father to actors Ron Howard and Clint Howard, and appeared in several of his sons' productions, including 'Apollo 13' and 'A Beautiful Mind.' Howard's ability to portray complex, often gruff characters made him a sought-after supporting actor throughout his career. He worked with major directors including Steven Spielberg, Robert Zemeckis, and others, and appeared in films such as 'Splash,' 'Cocoon,' and numerous television series including 'The Twilight Zone' and 'Gunsmoke.' Despite playing supporting roles, Howard was respected within the industry for his professionalism and craft. His legacy includes not only his extensive filmography but also his influence on his sons, who became prominent figures in entertainment themselves. Rance Howard's career exemplifies the dedicated character actor's crucial role in American cinema and television.