'Happy Days' star Anson Williams says he had to create a second career because sitcom pay wasn't enough

Actor Anson Williams initiated a music career as a side hustle because the salaries for ‘Happy Days’ were insufficient for a lifetime of earnings. Inspired by conversations with other actors, he pitched the idea of a musical act on the show, which led to extensive bookings at state fairs. The show’s success, particularly after its transition to a live audience format, also played a significant role in its global popularity.

• Anson Williams, who played Potsie Weber on ‘Happy Days,’ pursued a music career due to the show’s modest salaries in the 1970s.
• Conversations with David Cassidy and Barry Williams about their singing careers inspired Williams to propose a musical element on ‘Happy Days’.
• Show creator Garry Marshall agreed to Williams’ idea, leading to a music career that included performances at state fairs for a decade.
• ‘Happy Days’ experienced a surge in popularity and reached No. 1 globally after shifting to a live audience format.
• Williams later transitioned into directing, working on shows like ‘Beverly Hills, 90210’ and ‘Sabrina the Teenage Witch’.
• Williams continues to follow Garry Marshall’s advice to use his platform for good causes.