Dee from What’s Happening has died at 60 following complications from cancer, marking the end of an era for fans of the beloved 1970s sitcom. Dr. Danielle Spencer passed away Monday night in a Richmond, Virginia hospital with her mother Cheryl and jazz musician brother Jeremy Pelt by her side.
The actress who brought the sassy, quick-witted Dee Thomas to life on ABC’s “What’s Happening!!” became a household name during the show’s run from 1976 to 1979. Spencer’s portrayal of the younger sister character made her one of television’s most memorable child stars of the decade.
Key Points Summary
- Death: Danielle Spencer died Monday night at age 60 from cancer complications
- Location: Richmond, Virginia hospital
- Family Present: Mother Cheryl and brother Jeremy Pelt were by her side
- Career Transition: Left Hollywood in the 1990s to become a veterinarian
- Health Struggles: Previously battled breast cancer diagnosed in 2014
- Recent Condition: Was in a wheelchair following a car accident
Former costar Haywood Nelson, who played Dwayne on the show, confirmed Spencer’s passing. Nelson described receiving the heartbreaking call while in Dallas, sharing that he always viewed Danielle as his little sister. The two actors had spoken just two weeks before her death, and Nelson noted she sounded upbeat during their conversation.
Nelson honored his former costar on Instagram Tuesday, acknowledging that her battle had taken a heavy toll. He wrote that she had “finally found her release from the clutches of this world and a body”, reflecting the difficult health journey Spencer had endured in recent years.
The entertainment industry remembers Spencer not just for her iconic television role, but for her complete career transformation. After reprising her role as Dee Thomas in the 1980s spin-off “What’s Happening Now!!”, Spencer made the remarkable decision to leave Hollywood entirely in the 1990s.
Her post-acting career focused on veterinary medicine, where she built a second successful profession caring for animals. This career shift demonstrated Spencer’s commitment to making a meaningful difference beyond the entertainment world.
Spencer faced significant health challenges throughout her life. She was diagnosed with breast cancer in September 2014, which came as a shock despite her family history of the disease. Speaking during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Spencer had expressed surprise at the diagnosis, particularly after dealing with a spinal cord injury.
The actress also dealt with mobility challenges in her later years. She was using a wheelchair following a car accident, adding to the health struggles she faced before her final battle with cancer.
During her television career, Spencer became known for her natural comedic timing and ability to hold her own alongside veteran actors. Her character Dee Thomas was often the voice of reason in the Thomas household, delivering witty one-liners that became part of the show’s lasting appeal.
The original “What’s Happening!!” followed the lives of three African American teenagers in Los Angeles, breaking ground as one of the first sitcoms to authentically portray urban Black family life. Spencer’s role as the smart, outspoken younger sister contributed significantly to the show’s cultural impact.
Industry colleagues and fans have begun sharing memories and tributes across social media platforms. Many remember Spencer’s infectious energy and professionalism, even as a young performer working alongside established actors.
Her transition from child star to veterinarian represented a unique path in an industry where many young performers struggle with career changes. Spencer successfully reinvented herself, pursuing education and building expertise in an entirely different field.
The timing of Spencer’s death coincides with renewed interest in classic television shows through streaming platforms and nostalgia programming. “What’s Happening!!” continues to find new audiences who appreciate its humor and cultural significance.
Spencer’s legacy extends beyond her television work to include her advocacy and resilience in facing personal challenges. Her openness about health struggles, including her breast cancer diagnosis, helped raise awareness and inspire others facing similar battles.
The entertainment community has lost a performer who represented both the golden age of family sitcoms and the possibility of successful reinvention. Dee from What’s Happening may have left us at 60, but Danielle Spencer’s impact on television history and her dedication to animal care will be remembered by fans and colleagues alike.