Anson Williams Reflects on ‘Happy Days’ Legacy and Lifelong Friendships

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Anson Williams, best known for his role as Potsie Weber on the iconic 1970s sitcom “Happy Days,” recently opened up about the enduring friendships and life lessons he gained from the show during a Jan. 30 podcast appearance.

Williams, 75, reflected on his close bond with co-stars Henry Winkler (Arthur “Fonzie” Fonzarelli) and Ron Howard (Richie Cunningham), crediting show creator Garry Marshall for fostering their camaraderie. “We have been close friends for decades,” Williams said. “It’s just been a wonderful friendship. And just to have that kind of friendship that many years? It’s pretty unique.”

Marshall, who passed away in 2016, played a pivotal role in shaping the cast’s careers and personal growth. Williams recalled Marshall’s advice: “You guys are gonna be famous. You don’t deserve it. But you’re gonna be famous. There’s gonna be a light on you. Your responsibility is, you take the light and put it on someone that does deserve it.”

Beyond the set, Williams highlighted the show’s softball team as a defining experience. The team, which included most of the cast, toured the country, played in major stadiums, and even participated in USO tours. “We hardly ever lost,” Williams said, noting that the team’s success translated into stronger on-set relationships.

After “Happy Days” ended in 1984, Williams transitioned to directing, working on popular shows like “Melrose Place,” “Beverly Hills, 90210,” and “Sabrina the Teenage Witch.” Despite his success behind the camera, fans still recognize him as Potsie. “Ron had won the Oscar, and they’re calling him Richie,” Williams joked, referencing Howard’s dual fame from “The Andy Griffith Show” and “Happy Days.”

Williams remains grateful for the show’s impact on his life and career. “We have to earn our names. Take this and do something bigger with it,” he said, echoing Howard’s advice from their early days of fame.