Conversations with Missy: Anson Williams
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As part of the 50th Anniversary celebration of the beloved sitcom "Happy Days," Gallatin Comic Con became the venue for an exciting trip down memory lane. Among the attendees was Anson Williams, famously known for his role as Warren "Potsie" Weber. The event, which has quickly grown into a significant gathering for fans of pop culture, offered a unique opportunity to revisit the show's enduring legacy.
"Happy Days," which premiered in 1974, captured the hearts of millions with its depiction of life in the 1950s through the eyes of Richie Cunningham and his friends. Post-"Happy Days," Anson's career took him from acting to directing, where he found success behind the camera working on shows like "Melrose Place" and "Beverly Hills, 90210." However, his journey didn't stop there. In a surprising pivot, Williams ran for mayor of Ojai, California, though narrowly lost.
During our interview, Williams, now 75, reminisced about the show and what it was like seeing so many fans along with the memorabilia they brought with them hoping to get signed. Williams smiled as he spoke of his fans and continued to light up as he spoke of his wife, memoirist Sharon MaHarry. He shared that they are currently working on a one-woman stage play based on her book, "Crazy Mama: A Memoir of Love and Madness." This project, which won the 2014 Southwest Writers Competition, explores the complexities of growing up with a mother battling mental illness. Watch our full interview now for more information on this project.
The reunion at Gallatin Comic Con was not just about looking back but also about celebrating how "Happy Days" continues to bring people together. Williams alongside Henry Winkler and Donny Most enjoyed recounting stories with fans, signing autographs, and even posing for pictures. The fans enjoyed the panel where Williams, Winkler, and Most, shared anecdotes, laughed over old times, and discussed the show's influence on American television.
Gallatin Comic Con, thus, wasn't just a celebration of a show but a testament to how television can reflect and influence societal values over time. For fans and newcomers alike, meeting Anson Williams and hearing firsthand about "Happy Days" was a reminder of TV's power to unite generations. ~Missy
*Photo Credit: Jason Ashcraft, JWA Media and Tommy Lemon, CSM
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About Missy Wolf
Co-Founder, Editor, Journalist & Vice President of the American Country Music AssociationFrom an early age I knew music and entertainment were in my blood. I have always been enamored with the idea of being in this industry, though I never wanted to be a front and center "Star". Taking the audience behind the scenes for up close conversations with the artists they love is where I want to be. Life in lyrics has always been my style, so as my favorite country artist Wade Hayes sings, I am living my life and chasing my dreams! Conducting interviews, meeting talented people and sharing stories and adventure are my passion. My new favorite hashtag is #iaskyouanswer, so stay tuned for more interviews, articles and adventures!
