Producer Kevin McClory wanted Howard to play Bond's secret service chief "M" when the film was being developed under the title of "Warhead" in the late 1970s. Legal delays resulted in the picture being recast and made as "Never Say Never Again" several years later.

He was considered a possibility for the main role in the picture.

Howard had a role in the sequel to 'Peyton Place' written especially for him. The role was that of a country doctor who marries a socialite (to have been played by Suzy Parker).