The Legacy of Danielle Spencer, 'What's Happening!!' Child Star
Introduction
Danielle Spencer, best known for her role as Dee Thomas in the hit 70s sitcom "What's Happening!!", has passed away at the age of 60. The news of her death has left fans and former co-stars mourning the loss of the beloved child star. Her role on the show made her a household name at just 11 years old, and she will forever be remembered for her sassy and quick-witted character.
Early Success
Spencer's career took off after being cast in "What's Happening!!", a groundbreaking show that featured an African-American family as the main characters. Her performance as Dee Thomas won over audiences and earned her a Young Artist Award nomination. She quickly became a role model for young girls, showcasing intelligence and independence on screen.
Life Beyond the Show
After the show ended, Spencer continued to work in the entertainment industry, appearing in films and other television shows. She also pursued a successful career as a veterinarian, fulfilling a lifelong passion. Despite her busy schedule, Spencer remained a beloved figure in the hearts of her fans, who will continue to remember her as the sassy and lovable Dee Thomas.
About the People Mentioned
Danielle Spencer
Danielle Louise Spencer (June 24, 1965 – August 11, 2025) was an American actress, best known for portraying Dee Thomas, the wisecracking little sister on the ABC sitcom *What's Happening!!* from 1976 to 1979.[2][3] She reprised the role in the sequel series *What's Happening Now!!* (1985–1988), appearing in select episodes while pursuing higher education, and earned a bachelor's degree in marine biology from UCLA.[2] Her early career included guest spots on shows like *Soul Train* (1987), *Family Feud* (1979), and *The Brady Bunch Special* (1977), as well as *Christmas at Walt Disney World* (1978).[1] In 1977, Spencer survived a severe car crash that killed her stepfather and manager, Tim Pelt, leaving her in a three-week coma with multiple fractures; decades later, lingering injuries from the accident temporarily confined her to a wheelchair until intensive therapy enabled her to walk with crutches.[1] At the 2006 TV Land Awards, she co-won the "Character Most in Need of a Time-Out" award for Dee Thomas, shared with Alison Arngrim.[2][3] Transitioning from acting, Spencer fulfilled a childhood dream by earning her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Tuskegee University in 1993.[1][2][6] She practiced in Santa Clarita, California, before relocating to Richmond, Virginia, in 2014, where she hosted pet care segments on WTVR-TV morning newscasts. Her veterinary perspective was shaped by her spinal injury experience, emphasizing holistic animal treatment.[2] Later film roles included a veterinarian in *As Good as It Gets* (1997) and *Peter Rabbit and the Crucifix* (2001).[1][2] Spencer shared her life story in the 2011 memoir *Through the Fire… Journal of a Child Star*.[1] Planned honors, like a 2016 Smithsonian induction as the youngest African American female sitcom child star, highlighted her legacy.[1] Tuskegee University mourned her passing in August 2025, noting her community service.[6]
