Marion Ross, the beloved actress who played America’s favorite TV mom, is celebrating a remarkable milestone. Best known for her role as Marion Cunningham on Happy Days, Ross turned 97 surrounded by love, laughter, and warm wishes from those who adore her. Her son, actor Jim Meskimen, marked the occasion by sharing a touching Instagram post featuring Ross beaming as she blew out candles on her birthday cake. According to People, Ross’s longtime Happy Days co-star Henry Winkler also joined in the celebration, calling her “a magnificent woman, artist, and friend.” The photo he reposted from her 95th birthday captured her timeless charm and radiant spirit. Even after decades in the spotlight, Marion Ross continues to inspire fans and friends alike with her enduring grace and joyful outlook on life. Marion Ross Honored By Her ‘Happy Days’ Family             View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Jim Meskimen (@jimpressions)   Marion Ross’s connection to her Happy Days family remains as strong as ever. Showrunners Brian Levant and Fred Fox Jr. recently reflected on her enduring legacy while promoting their book 50 Years of Happy Days: A Visual History of an American Television Classic. They praised Ross for her warmth, authenticity, and resilience, describing her as both nurturing and tough—a woman who balanced motherhood and career with elegance. ClassicMovieDigest/X Levant shared that television couldn’t hide who Ross truly was: “She came across so warm and open. And she’s a tough woman. She was playing a ’50s homemaker, but she was a working mother struggling to support her kids.” The producers also fondly recalled her playful chemistry with Winkler on set, noting that “she always gave Henry as good as she got,” a reflection of her lively personality and professional spirit. A Lifetime Of Passion And Perseverance After years of struggle, Marion Ross is enjoying nothing but happy days at 95 / FSadou/AdMedia Beyond Happy Days, Marion Ross has enjoyed a storied career that began in 1953 and continues to resonate today. From stage performances to memorable television appearances, her work has showcased both her range and dedication to her craft. Levant recalled being amazed by her energy even in her mid-80s, remembering how she flawlessly delivered a lengthy monologue in a single take—a testament to her lifelong passion for acting. HAPPY DAYS, top from left: Don Most, Henry Winkler, Anson Williams, Pat Morita; middle: Al Molinaro, Marion Ross, Heather O’Rourke, Erin Moran, Tom Bosley, Ted McGinley; bottom: Cathy Silvers, Lynda Goodfriend, Ron Howard, Scott Baio, Crystal Bernard, (1984), 1974-84. ph: Mario Casilli / TV Guide / ©ABC/Courtesy Everett Collection As Ross celebrates 97 years, fans and colleagues alike continue to admire her talent, warmth, and timeless influence on American television. For generations who grew up watching Happy Days, Marion Ross will always be remembered as the heart of the Cunningham family—and the embodiment of genuine grace. Next up: June Lockhart Remembered As A Beloved ‘Second Mother’ By Her TV Sons After Death At 100 The post ‘Happy Days’ Actor Henry Winkler Calls Costar Marion Ross ‘A Magnificent Woman’ On Her 97th Birthday appeared first on DoYouRemember? - The Home of Nostalgia. Author, Ruth A