Dr. Danielle Spencer, the actress who became a household name in the 1970s as Dee Thomas on the hit sitcom What’s Happening!!, has died at the age of 60 after a long battle with cancer.
Her passing was confirmed by her close friend and former co-star Haywood Nelson, who played Dwayne Nelson on the show. Nelson paid tribute to Spencer in an emotional social media post, calling her “our brilliant, loving, positive, pragmatic warrior” and a “cancer heroine.”
“We celebrate Danielle Spencer and her contributions as we regret to inform her departure and transition from a long battle with cancer. We have lost a daughter, sister, family member, What’s Happening cast member, veterinarian, animal rights proponent and healer. Danielle is loved. She will be missed in this form and forever embraced,” Nelson wrote.
From Child Star to Cultural Icon
Born in Trenton, New Jersey, and raised in the Bronx before moving to California, Spencer began acting at just 11 years old. She joined What’s Happening!! in 1976, delivering sharp wit and memorable one-liners as the cheeky younger sister, Dee Thomas.
The sitcom, loosely inspired by the 1975 film Cooley High, followed three Black teenagers navigating life in Los Angeles. Running until 1979, it became a cultural touchstone, with Spencer’s quick comedic timing making her a fan favourite.
She reprised her role in the sequel series What’s Happening Now!! from 1985 to 1988, portraying Dee as an adult managing life’s challenges while staying connected to her childhood friends.
A Second Act in Veterinary Medicine
After stepping away from the entertainment industry, Spencer pursued her long-held dream of working with animals. She enrolled at Tuskegee University’s School of Veterinary Medicine, graduating in 1993.
Over the next three decades, she built a respected career in California, caring for pets, championing animal welfare causes, and mentoring aspiring veterinarians. Her dedication to both her patients and their owners earned her a loyal following.
A Legacy of Resilience and Advocacy
Beyond her professional achievements, Spencer was known for her resilience. She navigated the challenges of transitioning from child stardom to a new career with grace, often speaking openly about perseverance, purpose, and the importance of following one’s passion.
Friends, fans, and former colleagues have flooded social media with tributes, remembering her as a trailblazer for young Black actresses in television, a tireless advocate for animals, and a beloved figure in both Hollywood and veterinary circles.
Funeral arrangements have yet to be announced.
