Vanessa Nakate to Open Giving Black Conference 2026 With Climate Justice Keynote
1 week ago
United States Anson Williams transitioned from a beloved actor on "Happy Days" to a distinguished television director, and has also established himself as an entrepreneur and author.
StarMaker Products is a company founded by Anson Williams that has produced over 40 products, including skincare and non-prescription medical items. It also produced a Hollywood skin-care line used on the sets of hit shows.
Physicians Prefer is one of two product companies founded by Anson Williams, demonstrating his entrepreneurial endeavors beyond acting and directing.
Anson Williams was a featured speaker at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office's National Trademark Expo, where he discussed the importance of registered trademarks for small businesses.
In 1971, Anson Williams appeared in a TV commercial for McDonald's restaurants.
In 1987, Anson Williams and fellow Happy Days cast member Al Molinaro opened a chain of diners called Big Al's, although the business had a short duration.
Anson Williams was born Anson William Heimlich on September 25, 1949, in Los Angeles, California. His early career began in 1971 with an appearance in the Sherman Brothers’ musical “Victory Canteen” and a commercial for McDonald’s. His breakthrough role came in 1972 as Warren “Potsie” Weber in a segment of “Love, American Style” titled “Love and the Happy Days.” This segment later spun off into the iconic television series “Happy Days” (1974–1984), where Williams’ portrayal of Potsie Weber earned him a Golden Globe Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. On the show, Williams also showcased his singing talent as part of a band combo that performed at Arnold’s Drive-In. His performance in “Happy Days” extended for the entire run of the series.
Following his tenure on “Happy Days,” Williams transitioned into a prolific career as a television director and producer. He directed numerous episodes for a variety of notable television series, including “Melrose Place” (1996–1999), “Beverly Hills, 90210” (1996–2000), “Sabrina the Teenage Witch” (1999–2003), “Lizzie McGuire” (2001–2003), “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine” (1997–1998), “Star Trek: Voyager” (1997–1999), and “The Secret Life of the American Teenager” (2008–2013). His directorial work extended to various genres, including adolescent-focused programs, and TV movies like “Lone Star Kid” (1986). Williams also served as an executive producer for TV movies such as “Skyward” (1980) and “ABC Afterschool Specials” (1985).
Beyond his work in entertainment, Williams has ventured into entrepreneurship. In 1987, he co-founded a chain of diners called Big Al’s. He later established StarMaker Products, a cosmetics company that developed skincare lines used on TV sets. He also founded Physicians Prefer, another product company. His entrepreneurial insights led him to become a featured speaker at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office’s National Trademark Expo in 2008, where he emphasized the importance of registered trademarks for small businesses. In 2022, Williams made a bid for mayor of Ojai, California, demonstrating his commitment to community involvement. He is also the author of “Singing to a Bulldog: From Happy Days to Hollywood Director, and the Unlikely Mentor Who Got Me There.”
Curious about our offerings or have inquiries? We're eager to assist!
Just complete the form, and we'll respond promptly.
