The What’s Happening!! cast has experienced significant changes since their last collaboration on the sequel sitcom, What’s Happening Now!!. Tragically, several actors from this beloved show have passed away, with the most recent loss being Danielle Spencer, who portrayed the character Dee Thomas. Throughout her life, Danielle bravely fought against various health challenges, including cancer, which ultimately took her from us.

Despite the hardships she faced, Danielle maintained friendships with many of her former co-stars, notably Haywood Nelson, who played Dwayne in the series. Haywood shared the news of her passing in an emotional Instagram post on August 12, 2025, where he described Danielle as a “brilliant, loving, positive, pragmatic warrior, without fail,” highlighting the profound impact she had on those around her.

Ernest Thomas, known for his role as Raj, Danielle’s on-screen brother, also paid tribute to her on social media. In his heartfelt message, he expressed his sorrow, stating, “No more suffering for my baby sister Dr. Danielle Spencer.” This sentiment reflected the deep connections forged among the cast members during their time together on the show.

Curious about what the rest of the What’s Happening!! cast members are up to today? Below, you’ll discover where each of these iconic actors is now, shedding light on their journeys since the show.

Born on June 24th 1965 in Bronx, NY, This Amazing Child Actress is Most Known to Us For Playing Dee Thomas in the Hit Sitcom What’s Happening! #daniellespencer #whatshappening pic.twitter.com/eUU8OlrUvb

— 80sThen80sNow (@80sThen80sNow) August 12, 2025

Discover the Legacy of Roger Everett Gerald “Raj” Thomas Portrayed by Ernest Thomas

Ernest Thomas brought to life the character of Raj, a teenage protagonist who often found himself embroiled in humorous predicaments that required creative solutions. His performances captivated audiences and showcased his comic timing and relatable charm, making Raj a memorable character in sitcom history.

Before stepping into the spotlight with What’s Happening!!, Ernest had already made a name for himself in the acting world. Following the cancellation of the original series, he reprised his role in the sequel, What’s Happening Now!!, three years later. He later transitioned to a new role as Mr. Omar in the hit series Everybody Hates Chris, contributing to his enduring presence in the entertainment industry. Since 2024, Ernest has continued to voice Mr. Omar in the animated series Everybody Still Hates Chris, delighting fans of all ages.

Uncover the Journey of Dwayne Clemens Nelson Played by Haywood Nelson

Prior to his iconic role as Dwayne in What’s Happening!!, Haywood Nelson kickstarted his acting career on the soap opera As the World Turns, portraying Jerry Smith from 1971 to 1974. His success in both What’s Happening!! and its sequel, What’s Happening Now!!, catapulted him into the limelight, transforming Dwayne into a beloved teen heartthrob in Hollywood.

DEBUT: ‘What’s Happening!!’ premiered 49 years ago, August 5, 1976, on ABC pic.twitter.com/oUE51GHx7t

— RetroNewsNow (@RetroNewsNow) August 6, 2025

Explore the Life of Freddy J. “Rerun” Stubbs as Portrayed by Fred Berry

Fred Berry initially made a splash in the entertainment industry as a talented dancer with the Los Angeles-based dance troupe The Lockers. This background contributed significantly to the development of his character, Rerun, in What’s Happening!!. Rerun quickly became a fan favorite, thanks to Fred’s impressive dancing skills, infectious charisma, and ability to connect with the audience.

Unfortunately, Fred faced numerous struggles with substance abuse throughout his career, battling both drug and alcohol addiction. His personal challenges culminated in his untimely death in October 2003, a poignant reminder of the struggles faced by many in the entertainment industry.

Revisit the Accomplished Career of Deadra “Dee” Thomas Played by Danielle Spencer

Danielle Spencer rose to fame through her role as Dee Thomas in What’s Happening!!. Following the conclusion of the sequel sitcom in the 1980s, she secured several additional on-screen roles until the early 2000s. Beyond her acting career, Danielle pursued her passion for animals and became a veterinarian. She studied at UC Davis and UCLA, ultimately earning her doctorate degree from Tuskegee University Veterinary School, showcasing her dedication to her new career.

While working on What’s Happening!!, Danielle was involved in a devastating car accident in 1977, which tragically claimed the life of her stepfather, Tim Pelt, and left her in a coma for three weeks. The accident erased her memory of the incident, and she underwent several months of physical therapy to regain her strength and mobility, demonstrating remarkable resilience and determination.

Danielle passed away in August 2025 after enduring multiple health challenges, including cancer and a severe urinary tract infection that escalated into sepsis, as reported by TMZ. Her legacy endures through the impact she made both on-screen and in her community as a veterinarian.

Discover the Career Highlights of Mabel “Mama” Thomas Portrayed by Mabel King

In contrast to many of her co-stars, Mabel King embarked on her acting career relatively late, beginning her journey in her mid-30s with stage productions. Her talent soon led her to the role of Mama Thomas in the 1970s sitcom. After two successful seasons, she departed from the show in 1978 and continued her career with guest appearances in popular TV series such as The Jeffersons and Fantasy Island. Mabel also made her mark in film, appearing in the classics The Jerk, The Jerk, Too, Scrooged, and Dead Men Don’t Die.

Throughout her life, Mabel battled diabetes, which led to several significant health issues, including amputations. Sadly, she passed away in November 1999 at the age of 66, leaving behind a legacy of talent and resilience in the face of adversity.

Celebrate the Legacy of Shirley Wilson as Portrayed by Shirley Hemphill

Shirley Hemphill was not only a talented actress but also a gifted comedian. Her role in What’s Happening!! and its sequel opened doors for her, allowing her to secure various on-screen opportunities throughout her career. Shirley also appeared in the series One in a Million and took on several television roles during the 1990s, showcasing her versatility as a performer.

Tragically, Shirley’s life was cut short when she passed away at the young age of 52. In December 1999, she was found deceased in her home, with the autopsy revealing that she succumbed to kidney failure. Her passing was a significant loss to the entertainment world, and her contributions to comedy and television continue to be remembered.