But Opie Grew Up . . .

"People have referred to me as the Richie Cunningham candidate: a little bit too clean and upstanding, but you know what? Contrasting that with what's going on out there in the popular culture, a little bit of Richie Cunningham wouldn't be a bad thing for our society right now." - Rick Santorum.

 

 

 

Here is the problem: Ron Howard grew up, directed wonderful movies, won an Oscar, and sired a stunning daughter (yes a redhead). He also grew up politically, i.e. his 2008 internet ad with Andy Griffith and Henry Winkler. What he didn't do is remain mired in a mythical, simplistic vision of America that not only never existed, but could have never existed.

Mr. Sweater Vest, you are no Richie Cunningham.