Danielle Spencer, child star on Whats Happening!!, is dead at 60

Published: Wednesday, August 13, 2025 at 1:14 am

Danielle Spencer, Star of "Whats Happening!!" Dies at 60

Danielle Spencer, best known for her role as Dee Thomas in the 1970s sitcom "Whats Happening!!" and its sequel "Whats Happening Now!!", has died at the age of 60. The actress passed away on Monday due to complications from gastric cancer and cardiac arrest.

"Whats Happening!!", which aired from 1976 to 1979, was a pioneering show, one of the first American television series to center on the experiences of Black teenagers. Spencer played the witty and often sassy Dee Thomas, the younger sister of Roger "Raj" Thomas, in 65 episodes of the original series and 16 episodes of the reboot. Her signature line, "Ooh, I'm telling Mama," became a catchphrase for fans.

Born in the Bronx, Spencer began her acting career at a young age. She later pursued a career in veterinary medicine, earning a doctorate from Tuskegee University in 1993. Her love for animals was evident from childhood, and she dedicated several decades to her veterinary practice.

Spencer faced several health challenges throughout her life. She was involved in a car accident during the production of "Whats Happening!!" that resulted in a coma and significant injuries. Years later, she developed spinal stenosis attributed to the accident and was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2014. Despite these hardships, Spencer remained resilient, crediting her family for their support. In 2016, she was inducted into the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture.

BNN's Perspective:

Danielle Spencer's life story is a testament to her versatility and resilience. From her early success as a child actress to her later career as a veterinarian, she navigated different paths with grace. Her contributions to television and her dedication to her profession leave a lasting legacy.

Keywords: Danielle Spencer, Whats Happening!!, Dee Thomas, actress, death, gastric cancer, cardiac arrest, sitcom, Black teenagers, veterinary medicine, Tuskegee University, Bronx, Smithsonian, African American History, culture, television, entertainment

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