The term PRE-RICHIE TV ROLE FOR RON is referring to the character of Opie Taylor, which Ron Howard played in the television show 'The Andy Griffith Show' before he went on to play Richie Cunningham in 'Happy Days'. The character of Opie was a young boy living in the fictional town of Mayberry, North Carolina. He was the son of Sheriff Andy Taylor and was often seen getting into trouble with his best friend, Barney Fife.