'Happy Days' first premiered on ABC in January 1974
Credit: ABC Photo Archives/Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty
NEED TO KNOW
- Anson Williams recently revealed that he still stays in touch with former Happy Days costars through a group chat decades later
- The 76-year-old actor said their connection is rooted in genuine friendship rather than work
- Williams also credited their late mentor, Garry Marshall, for helping shape that lasting bond
Few television series have captured the charm of everyday American life quite like Happy Days.
Decades after the sitcom first aired in 1974, the show's legacy still resonates, not just with audiences but with its cast as well. Recently, Anson Williams offered a glimpse into that enduring bond during an appearance on the B*tches from Texas podcast.
Reflecting on his relationships with former costars, the 76-year-old actor shared, “It's so funny because even up till today we have an open text thing,” Williams told hosts Morgan Fairchild and Cathryn Hartt. He even revealed who is in the group chat: “Ron [Howard], Donny [Most], Henry [Winkler], and myself.”
Credit: ABC Photo Archives/Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty
Before concluding in 1984, the beloved sitcom spanned 11 seasons and 255 episodes.
At its heart were characters brought to life by a tight-knit ensemble: Howard as Richie Cunningham, Winkler as Arthur “Fonzie” Fonzarelli, Williams as Warren “Potsie” Weber and Most as Ralph Malph.
While their on-screen friendships became iconic, their off-screen connection has proven just as lasting. During his podcast appearance, Williams revealed that the group's dynamic hasn't changed much over the years and messages are answered almost instantly, a testament to how closely they remain connected.
Interestingly, one topic has consistently remained entirely absent from their conversations: work. Instead, their exchanges are rooted in something far more meaningful.
“We've been friends for 52 years,” Williams explained. “And it has nothing to do with business. It has to do with friendship. There's a deep, deep friendship.”
Credit: ABC Photo Archives/Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty
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In a January 2025 episode of 9021OMG, Williams credited their strong connection, in part, to their late mentor, Garry Marshall, who died at age 81 in 2016.
“Early on, Garry, he sat us down. I'll never forget it,” Williams remembered. “He said, ‘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.' ”
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