Anson Williams, known for his role as Potsie Weber on Happy Days, found a creative way to supplement his income. In a recent interview on the Still Here Hollywood Podcast, the 77-year-old actor shared how he ventured into a music career during the 1970s.
Williams explained that the salaries for Happy Days actors at the time were modest. We didn’t have the same salaries they have today. Not even close,
he remarked, mentioning that he earned $900 to $1,200 per episode, which wasn’t enough for a lifetime.
This economic reality led him to explore singing, inspired by conversations with Partridge Family star David Cassidy and The Brady Bunch‘s Barry Williams. He thought, If I can convince Garry to put a band on the show, maybe I can get booked and earn some extra income,
Williams said.
Williams pitched the idea to Garry Marshall, the show’s creator, proposing that he sing on the show to increase his earnings. Marshall agreed, giving Williams a chance to perform at Arnold’s, the show’s popular burger joint. He humorously told Williams to sing to a bulldog, saying, If you’re good, I get laughs. If you’re bad, I get laughs.
Williams recalled how the audience responded positively, leading Marshall to encourage more performances. Armed with a major agent, Williams began booking performances at state fairs for over a decade.
His success as a musician complemented his acting career, leading Williams to appreciate the unique experience. Marshall praised Williams, saying, You found an opportunity, and you’re helping the show.
Williams shared with Fox News Digital that Happy Days faced potential cancellation when its rankings dropped. Marshall and director Jerry Paris decided to switch the format to a live audience sitcom, leading to the show’s peak success.
Marshall advised Williams and his co-stars to use their platforms positively, encouraging them to shine the spotlight on people that deserve it.
This advice influenced Williams’ career direction post Happy Days.
After the show, Williams transitioned into television directing, working on series such as Beverly Hills, 90210, Sabrina the Teenage Witch, Lizzie McGuire, Charmed, and more.
Reflecting on Marshall’s guidance, Williams expressed how important it was for him and his colleagues to use their influence for social good. He cited projects like the film Skyward, featuring the first paraplegic lead in TV history, and other impactful works like No Greater Gift.
The contributions to social issues remain a meaningful part of Williams’ legacy.
Lori A. Bashian, an entertainment news writer at Fox News Digital, contributed to this report.