‘Happy Days’ Star Anson Williams Marries at 73 after Beating Cancer — His Series Co-star Was His Best Man

Anson Williams, known as Warren “Potsie” Weber from “Happy Days,” revealed he just got married at 73.

His friend he often calls “brother,” who was also his series co-star, served as his best man during the ceremony.

After beating cancer, he devoted his life to his family and lives in a small farm town.

Anson Williams is most popularly known for starring as Warren “Potsie” Weber in the American sitcom, “Happy Days”—a somewhat gullible yet good-hearted singer who entertained the audience throughout the show’s 11 seasons.

The iconic role became integral to Williams’ career and earned him three Golden Globe Award nominations for Best Series, Miniseries, or TV Film, and Best Supporting Actor. But recently, the actor has been in the news for a completely different reason.

Anson Williams as Warren "Potsie" Weber in "Happy Days" | Source: Getty Images

Williams, 73, is a happily married man after tying the knot with Sharon MaHarry on Saturday, May 6, 2023. The lovely and dreamy wedding ceremony occurred in his own yard, marking an important milestone in the actor’s life.

In addition to a rocky love life, Williams endured a harrowing health battle.
The TV icon looked dapper in a black suit, which he paired with a light blue dress shirt and a gray patterned tie. He also wore a boutonniere on the jacket’s lapel and finished his look with black spectacles.

On the other hand, Williams’ bride looked stunning in a full-sleeve floor-length lace gown comprising a boat neck and full skirt. She let her short blonde tresses down, with some of her hair pinned away from her face, and held a lovely flower bouquet.

The newlyweds beamed joyfully as they eternalized their love surrounded by their loved ones. Williams, who once ran for mayor of Ojai but was unsuccessful, wed MaHarry at a private residence in the seaside town of Los Angeles.

The couple’s wedding ceremony took place in the groom’s lush green and spacious yard, adorned with colossal flower and plant pots. Bright lights were hung from trees to create a mesmerizing effect and make the occasion even more special.

Friends and family watched in awe as MaHarry’s daughter walked her down the aisle to marry the love of her life. A romantic tune played in the background as the bride and groom vowed to stay together for the rest of their lives.

According to his Facebook profile, Williams got engaged to MaHarry on April 3. Throughout the ceremony, he wore a bright, warm smile that perfectly encapsulated his happiness. Williams’ best man was none other than his series co-star, Don Most, who played Ralph Malph on “Happy Days.”

The two men share a phenomenal bond that dates back to their time on the show. Williams considers Most a great friend and refers to him as his “brother.” The duo’s heartwarming connection has stayed strong over the years.

When Williams shared photos from his big day on social media, many fans noticed Most’s presence and left messages of appreciation and support for him and the newlyweds.

“Congratulations!!! What a beautiful bride and I love your best man! He’s still got it!” wrote one user. “Anson you both look amazing. I haven’t [seen] you smile like that in a long while. God Bless you both,” commented another netizen.

Meanwhile, the happy groom, who couldn’t contain his excitement while looking at his gorgeous bride, captioned his Facebook post, “A magical moment in time.”

Williams was said to have met his better half in the winter of his life and knew she was the one meant for him. After surviving a terrifying health ordeal and seeing his marriage of 30 years come to an end, he still believes, “It’s never too late to get it right!”

MaHarry has been running a successful career as a seasoned real estate agent and has also dabbled in advertising and writing. She holds a degree in English from Roanoke College in Salem, Virginia.

Earlier, she served as the senior vice president and creative director at Young and Rubicam Advertising Agency in New York. She has also written the book, “Crazy Mama: A Memoir of Love and Madness.” She has one daughter, Lindsay, who works as a journalist in Los Angeles.

Williams married MaHarry in Ojai, California, a small town where he moved in 2011 to enjoy a quiet, peaceful life. Talking about his decision to leave Los Angeles at the time, the “Melrose Place” alum expressed how he wanted his kids to live in a fail-safe community.

Back then, he only went to Ojai occasionally or on weekends but fell in love with its people and ambiance. Gradually, Williams started visiting the place more often with his family and moved there permanently.

In addition to falling in love with Ojai’s loving community and safe environment, the place reportedly offered Williams a tranquil respite from his personal woes. He further mentioned:

“I owe a lot to Ojai for that, for my health, my sanity, and the ability to move forward.”

Williams has been married twice before—he tied the knot with Lorrie Mahaffey in 1978 and called it quits in 1986. His second marriage was to Jackie Gerkens, and after staying together for over three decades and sharing five kids, there was trouble in paradise for the duo. Initially, they broke up but changed their minds soon after and decided to give their relationship another chance.

The duo first ventured on the divorce road in September 2019; however, a month later, Williams was reportedly in court to file for a dismissal. However, nine months later, things turned odd, and the couple finally divorced in 2020.

Actor Anson Williams and wife Jackie Gerken attend The National Conference of Christians and Jews Gala Honoring Robert Wright on October 16, 1989 at Century Plaza Hotel in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images

In addition to a rocky love life, Williams endured a harrowing health battle. A little before Christmas 2016, he received his Stage 2 colon cancer diagnosis.

Soon afterward, he had two surgeries and stayed in the hospital for three weeks. Not only did he emerge victorious in his battle against the life-threatening condition, but he also gained a new perspective on life.

After understanding his purpose for living, Williams said he developed a newfound love and appreciation for his family, including his children and grandchildren. He expressed:

“I always knew I loved them, and they were important, but now it’s at a whole new level.”

Today, Williams is a doting grandfather to four grandkids and a married man, and we hope he continues to celebrate life and create precious memories!

Grandma Thought Kids Were Taking Her to Nursing Home, but When She Woke Up, She Went Pale & Screamed, ‘Family, I’m Still Alive!’

Evelyn had sacrificed everything for her children, raising them alone after her husband’s death. But when they took her to a cemetery instead of a shelter, a dark family secret came to light, shattering the trust she thought was unbreakable and revealing a betrayal she never saw coming.

Evelyn sat quietly in her small living room, the afternoon light casting soft shadows on the faded curtains. She stared at the family photos lining the walls — pictures of birthdays, graduations, and holidays, each one a reminder of the life she had built.

An elderly woman on her balcony | Source: Pexels

An elderly woman on her balcony | Source: Pexels

Her heart ached as she thought of her children, Helen and Alex. They were adults now, with their own families, but it seemed like they’d forgotten all she had done for them.

Evelyn had raised her children alone after her husband died. She had worked long hours, sometimes taking on two jobs just to make sure they had what they needed. There were nights when she went without food so they could eat. She never complained. She was strong. But now, at 78, her strength seemed to mean nothing.

A woman with her daughter | Source: Midjourney

A woman with her daughter | Source: Midjourney

From the next room, Evelyn could hear Alex’s voice. It was low but clear enough that she could make out the words.

“I checked the shelters,” Alex was saying, his voice calm, like he was discussing something simple, like the weather. “The state ones are full. Private homes… well, they’re expensive.”

Evelyn’s breath caught in her throat. Shelters? She leaned closer, trying to hear more. Helen’s voice followed, sharper, as always.

A couple arguing | Source: Pexels

A couple arguing | Source: Pexels

“Private?” Helen scoffed. “Do you know how much those cost? I’ve got mortgages to pay. Are you going to cover it?”

Evelyn’s hands tightened around the arms of her chair. They were talking about her. She was no longer their mother. She was a burden, a problem to be solved. She wasn’t included in the conversation, just an obstacle in their lives.

“I mean, what are we supposed to do?” Helen continued. “I can’t afford to take care of her, and neither can you. We have our own families.”

A woman arguing with a man | Source: Pexels

A woman arguing with a man | Source: Pexels

Evelyn’s chest tightened, her heart heavy with sadness. They hadn’t spoken to her about their plans, hadn’t asked how she felt. Tears welled up, but she blinked them away. I’ve always been strong, she reminded herself. I’ll be strong now, too.

The conversation ended, and Alex and Helen left the house without saying a word to her. She didn’t ask where they were going. She didn’t want to know.

A sad elderly woman | Source: Freepik

A sad elderly woman | Source: Freepik

That night, Evelyn lay in bed, her eyes staring at the ceiling. Sleep wouldn’t come. Her thoughts kept drifting back to their words. A burden. Too expensive. She had given them everything, and now she felt like nothing.

The next morning, Evelyn heard footsteps approaching her room. Alex stepped in, avoiding her eyes. His face looked tight, like he was holding back something unpleasant.

“Mom,” he said quietly. “It’s time to pack up.”

A man standing in the doorway | Source: Pexels

A man standing in the doorway | Source: Pexels

“Pack up?” Evelyn’s voice trembled. “To the shelter?”

Alex’s eyes darted to the floor. “Yeah,” he muttered. “It’s time.”

Evelyn nodded, her hands shaking as she reached for her old suitcase. She packed slowly, folding her few clothes and placing old photos between the fabric. Her memories, her life.

An elderly woman packing her suitcase | Source: Midjourney

An elderly woman packing her suitcase | Source: Midjourney

Helen pulled up in the car as Evelyn walked out, her suitcase in hand. No one said much as she climbed into the back seat. The drive was long and silent. Evelyn stared out the window, watching the world blur by. She didn’t cry. There were no more tears left.

After what seemed like hours, the car came to a stop. Evelyn blinked, waking from the light doze she had fallen into. She looked out the window and felt her heart race.

A man driving | Source: Freepik

A man driving | Source: Freepik

They weren’t at a shelter. They were in front of a cemetery.

Her legs felt weak as she stepped out of the car. “Family, I’m STILL ALIVE!” she exclaimed, eyes wide in disbelief.

Helen walked ahead, her face cold and distant. “Come on, Mom,” she said sharply. “We’re here for a reason.”

A graveyard on a fall day | Source: Freepik

A graveyard on a fall day | Source: Freepik

Evelyn’s legs felt weak as Helen led her deeper into the cemetery. The chill in the air bit through her thin coat, but it was nothing compared to the icy silence between her and her children. She could hear the crunch of gravel under her shoes, each step heavy with confusion and fear.

Helen stopped suddenly and pointed to a small gravestone. “There,” she said coldly, her voice barely a whisper. Evelyn’s eyes followed her daughter’s hand and froze. Her breath caught in her throat.

An old small gravestone | Source: Pexels

An old small gravestone | Source: Pexels

The gravestone was old, weathered by years of wind and rain. The name carved into the stone was faint, but Evelyn could still make it out: Emily, beloved daughter. Below the name, a date of birth and death were etched, the very same day as this day.

It was the grave of a baby — a daughter she had lost so many years ago. A daughter Helen had never known about.

A crying elderly woman | Source: Pexels

A crying elderly woman | Source: Pexels

Helen’s voice cut through the silence, sharp and full of anger. “How could you never tell me?” she snapped, her eyes burning with fury. “I had a twin, and you hid her from me? All these years?” Helen’s hands clenched into fists at her sides, her face twisted with rage.

Evelyn’s heart pounded in her chest, the weight of her secret crashing down on her. “I — I didn’t want to hurt you,” she stammered, her voice shaking. “You were just a baby. I didn’t think—”

A heartbroken elderly woman looking up | Source: Midjourney

A heartbroken elderly woman looking up | Source: Midjourney

“You didn’t think?” Helen interrupted, her voice rising. “You didn’t think I had the right to know? My whole life, you’ve kept things from us. No wonder Alex and I don’t want to take care of you. You’ve been lying to us for years.”

Evelyn’s knees buckled, and she reached out for support, her fingers brushing the rough surface of the gravestone.

A crying woman at a cemetery | Source: Midjourney

A crying woman at a cemetery | Source: Midjourney

She had hidden the truth for so long, trying to protect her children from the pain of losing a sister. But now, it felt like that decision had only driven them further away.

Helen stepped back, her arms crossed. “This is exactly why I can’t trust you. You’ve spent your whole life keeping secrets from us. And now you expect us to take care of you? Why would we want to, knowing you’ve lied about something this important?”

An angry woman | Source: Pexels

An angry woman | Source: Pexels

Evelyn opened her mouth to speak, but the words wouldn’t come. Her chest felt tight, and her heart heavy with regret. She had thought she was protecting them. Instead, she had lost them.

“Get back in the car,” Helen said, her voice cold. “We’re done here.”

An angry woman pointing away | Source: Midjourney

An angry woman pointing away | Source: Midjourney

They drove in silence, the atmosphere in the car thick with tension. Evelyn stared out the window, her thoughts a whirlwind of guilt and sorrow. She felt small, broken, as if the love between her and her children had died alongside her baby girl all those years ago.

When the car finally stopped, Evelyn looked up and saw a dilapidated building in front of her. The paint was peeling, and the windows were cracked, the place looking more like a forgotten relic than a nursing home. Her heart sank.

An old nursing home | Source: Midjourney

An old nursing home | Source: Midjourney

Inside, the smell of musty air hit Evelyn’s nose. The walls were dull and cracked, the furniture old and worn. The nurse who greeted them didn’t even smile. Alex and Helen handed over her paperwork quickly, like they were in a rush to leave.

Evelyn stood there, her suitcase at her feet, feeling utterly abandoned. The room she was given was small, the bed stiff and the single window too small to let in much light. She sat on the edge of the bed, her hands shaking. Her life had been reduced to this—left in a place that felt forgotten, much like how she felt inside.

An elderly woman covering her face with her hands | Source: Pexels

An elderly woman covering her face with her hands | Source: Pexels

A knock at the door startled her. She looked up as the door swung open.

“Grandma?” A familiar voice filled the room. Evelyn blinked, her heart racing as her granddaughter, Margaret, stood in the doorway, breathless.

“Margaret?” Evelyn whispered, her voice shaky.

A young woman in a library | Source: Midjourney

A young woman in a library | Source: Midjourney

“I came as soon as I found out,” Margaret said, rushing over to her grandmother’s side. “I can’t believe they left you here. Please, come live with me. I don’t have much, but I’ve got a spare room, and I want you to stay with me.”

Evelyn’s eyes filled with tears, but this time, they weren’t from sadness. It had been so long since anyone had shown her kindness.

A breathless elderly woman | Source: Pexels

A breathless elderly woman | Source: Pexels

“But, Margaret,” she said softly, “there’s something I need to tell you. Something I’ve kept from all of you. You had an aunt. She was your mother’s twin, but she… she didn’t make it. I never told anyone. I thought I was protecting them.”

Margaret knelt down in front of her, taking Evelyn’s hands in hers. “Oh, Grandma,” she said, her voice full of understanding. “You’ve carried that burden alone for so long. You don’t have to anymore. I’m here. I want you to come home with me.”

A woman hugging her mother | Source: Pexels

A woman hugging her mother | Source: Pexels

Evelyn couldn’t hold back the tears any longer. She had never expected this—compassion, forgiveness, love. “Yes,” she whispered. “That’s all I’ve ever wanted.”

A few weeks later, Helen and Alex showed up at Margaret’s house, trying to act concerned about their mother. But Evelyn saw through their charade. Their sudden interest had more to do with inheritance than family.

A brother and a sister on a porch | Source: Midjourney

A brother and a sister on a porch | Source: Midjourney

Evelyn met them at the door, her expression calm and confident for the first time in years. “Don’t worry,” she said softly, “I’m happy now, living with Margaret. I’m exactly where I belong.”

For the first time in a long time, Evelyn felt at peace. She was no longer a burden, no longer alone. She was home.

A smiling elderly woman | Source: Pexels

A smiling elderly woman | Source: Pexels

Liked this story? Consider checking out this one: When I saw the poster with my son’s name and face, I felt a chill run down my spine. Little did I know that calling the number would uncover deep-seated secrets and stir emotions I never imagined, leading to a neighborhood showdown that threatened to tear us apart.

This work is inspired by real events and people, but it has been fictionalized for creative purposes. Names, characters, and details have been changed to protect privacy and enhance the narrative. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental and not intended by the author.

The author and publisher make no claims to the accuracy of events or the portrayal of characters and are not liable for any misinterpretation. This story is provided “as is,” and any opinions expressed are those of the characters and do not reflect the views of the author or publisher.

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