Jason Bateman reflects on Ron Howard influence during career low point

Jason Bateman recalled the "life-changing lesson" he learned from Ron Howard

In a recent chat on Netflix's upcoming season of My Next Guest Needs No Introduction with David Letterman, the Arrested Development star looked back at one of the low points in his career and how Howard's one interview helped him change his perspective.

"So I'm watching Ron Howard be interviewed, and he's so famously gregarious and friendly and sort of, he would admit, kind of a geek that he's so nice," he looked back.

"And he's the most successful guy in the world and I'm thinking, 'My God, if I could ever get any ounce of success or relevance or access again, the best part of that capital would be, I can be as nice as I want to be and it's never going to be misinterpreted for being overly eager or desperate or thirsty for the job,'" Bateman noted.

Bateman then shared how working with Howard on the set of Arrested Development was a "full-circle" moment.

"Cut to, I get this job on Arrested Development where it's Ron Howard's show," Bateman continued. "And I had just one-on-one [time] with him at dinner and I let him know, not only what that interview planted in me, but then what his show gave to me and now is giving me the opportunity to be exactly what he was... So it was just such a beautiful full circle for me with him."

Reflecting on how his low moments in life keep him grounded, Bateman added, "It helps me be and behave who I am today. Because like, with any of us, you hit the bottom, if you can hit if a few times, and it makes you even more appreciative of the moments of opportunity that come your way. That's why I work so hard now."