Ron Howard

The comedy legend was ready to return his massive paycheck after enduring just one day in the elaborate costume and prosthetics that transformed him into the beloved Christmas character.

John Wayne's trophy case included a Best Actor Oscar, but one of Hollywood's biggest legends was surprisingly overlooked for a different honor. As his career came to a close, there was one final role he believed deserved recognition, a hope that was never fulfilled.

Filmmaker Ron Howard once boldly declared when he would create his greatest films. He set a specific timeframe for his directorial zenith, but a look back at his filmography reveals a surprising truth about when his golden era actually occurred. Did his best work come when he expected?