The beloved 1970s sitcom "What's Happening!!" left an indelible mark on the world of television, capturing the hearts of audiences with its relatable humor, vibrant characters, and cultural authenticity. For decades, fans have fondly remembered the exploits of Raj, Dwayne, Rerun, and the rest of the gang as they navigated life in their Los Angeles neighborhood. But what happened to the actors who brought these iconic characters to life? The "What's Happening!!" cast remains a topic of intrigue, nostalgia, and celebration among TV enthusiasts.
With its unforgettable catchphrases, quirky storylines, and timeless representation of African American culture, "What's Happening!!" became a cornerstone of television history. From Raj's witty one-liners to Dee's sassy comebacks, every character contributed to the show's charm. But beyond the screen, the lives of the cast members have been filled with triumphs, challenges, and inspiring stories. As we revisit the "What's Happening!!" cast, we uncover where they are now, their contributions to entertainment, and the legacy they continue to uphold.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the biographies of the cast members, their careers post-"What's Happening!!," and their personal lives. Whether you're a longtime fan of the series or newly discovering its magic, this article provides an in-depth look at the lives of the actors who made the show a cultural phenomenon. Let’s journey through time and celebrate the incredible legacy of the "What's Happening!!" cast.
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Table of Contents
- Biography of the Cast
- Who Played Raj? The Character's Journey
- What Happened to Dwayne?
- Rerun's Iconic Moments
- Dee in "What's Happening!!"
- Spin-offs and Reunions
- Cast Members Behind the Scenes
- How Did the Series Impact TV?
- Where Are They Now?
- What Made "What's Happening!!" Special?
- Guest Stars and Recurring Characters
- How Did Fans React to the Series?
- Cultural Significance of the Show
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Biography of the Cast
The "What's Happening!!" cast was composed of a talented group of actors who brought their characters to life with charisma and authenticity. Each cast member had a unique journey leading up to their role on the show, and their lives have continued to evolve in fascinating ways since the series ended. Below is a glimpse into the personal details of the main cast members:
| Actor | Character | Date of Birth | Other Notable Works |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ernest Thomas | Roger "Raj" Thomas | March 26, 1949 | "Everybody Hates Chris," "Malcolm X" |
| Fred Berry | Freddie "Rerun" Stubbs | March 19, 1951 | Dance performances, appearances on "Scrubs" |
| Haywood Nelson | Dwayne Nelson | March 25, 1960 | "What's Happening Now!!," TV guest appearances |
| Danielle Spencer | Dee Thomas | June 24, 1965 | Veterinarian career, occasional acting roles |
| Mabel King | Mama (Mabel) Thomas | December 25, 1932 | "The Wiz," "Scrooged" |
This table highlights the main actors and their contributions to the series. Let’s dive deeper into their individual stories to better understand their significance.
Who Played Raj? The Character's Journey
Ernest Lee Thomas was the man behind Roger "Raj" Thomas, the lovable and ambitious writer who often found himself at the center of the group’s adventures. Born on March 26, 1949, in Gary, Indiana, Ernest Thomas had a passion for acting from a young age. He studied at the prestigious American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York City before making his way to Hollywood.
In "What's Happening!!," Raj served as the voice of reason among his friends, balancing his dreams of becoming a journalist with the hilarity of everyday life. Ernest Thomas brought humor, depth, and relatability to the role, earning praise for his portrayal. Post-"What's Happening!!," Thomas continued acting, appearing in notable projects like "Malcolm X" and "Everybody Hates Chris." He also became a motivational speaker, inspiring audiences with his journey in the entertainment industry.
What Happened to Dwayne?
Haywood Nelson played the role of Dwayne Nelson, the shy and kind-hearted member of the group whose signature catchphrase, "Hey, hey, hey!," became a fan favorite. Born on March 25, 1960, in New York City, Haywood Nelson began his career as a child actor, appearing in commercials and TV shows before landing his iconic role on "What's Happening!!."
After the show's conclusion, Nelson reprised his role as Dwayne in the spin-off series "What's Happening Now!!," which aired from 1985 to 1988. Although he stepped back from acting in later years, Nelson remained connected to the entertainment industry, occasionally appearing in specials and interviews reflecting on the show’s legacy.
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Rerun's Iconic Moments
Fred Berry, affectionately known as "Rerun," brought laughter and energy to "What's Happening!!" with his larger-than-life personality and unforgettable dance moves. Born on March 19, 1951, in St. Louis, Missouri, Fred Berry was a professional dancer before transitioning to acting. His role as Freddie "Rerun" Stubbs showcased his comedic timing and physicality, making him a standout character in the series.
Berry’s portrayal of Rerun resonated with audiences, and his influence extended beyond the show. He became a pop culture icon, frequently referenced in music, TV, and movies. Despite facing personal challenges, Berry left an enduring legacy before his passing in 2003.
Dee in "What's Happening!!"
Danielle Spencer portrayed Dee Thomas, Raj’s precocious younger sister whose sharp wit and sarcastic remarks often stole the show. Born on June 24, 1965, Spencer was just a child when she was cast in the series, but her performance quickly made Dee a fan favorite. Her character’s quick comebacks and sibling banter with Raj added depth and humor to the show.
After her time on "What's Happening!!," Spencer pursued a career in veterinary medicine while occasionally returning to acting. Her journey reflects her multifaceted talents and resilience, making her an inspiration to fans of the show.
Spin-offs and Reunions
The success of "What's Happening!!" led to a spin-off series, "What's Happening Now!!," which reunited the main cast and introduced new characters. The series allowed fans to see the characters as adults, navigating new challenges and relationships. Additionally, the cast frequently reunited for special appearances, interviews, and conventions, keeping the spirit of the show alive for generations of fans.
Cast Members Behind the Scenes
While the cast of "What's Happening!!" was celebrated for their on-screen performances, their lives off-screen were equally compelling. From charitable work to personal struggles, each actor brought their unique experiences to the table. The bonds they formed during the series extended beyond the set, creating a lasting legacy of friendship and collaboration.
How Did the Series Impact TV?
"What's Happening!!" broke new ground as one of the first sitcoms to focus on African American teenagers and their families. Its authentic portrayal of Black culture, combined with universal themes of friendship and family, resonated with audiences of all backgrounds. The show paved the way for future sitcoms and remains a milestone in television history.
Where Are They Now?
The cast of "What's Happening!!" has continued to make their mark in various ways, from acting and public speaking to pursuing careers outside of entertainment. While some members have passed on, their contributions to the show and their impact on fans remain enduring. Others continue to inspire with their work and personal journeys.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What year did "What's Happening!!" first air?
"What's Happening!!" premiered on August 5, 1976. - Was "What's Happening!!" based on real-life events?
Yes, the show was loosely inspired by the 1975 film "Cooley High." - How many seasons of "What's Happening!!" were there?
The series ran for three seasons from 1976 to 1979. - Is the cast of "What's Happening!!" still active in entertainment?
Some cast members, like Ernest Thomas, remain active, while others have pursued different paths. - What is the legacy of "What's Happening!!"?
The show is celebrated for its cultural significance and its role in diversifying TV programming. - Where can I watch "What's Happening!!" today?
The series is available on various streaming platforms and DVD collections.
Conclusion
The "What's Happening!!" cast left an enduring legacy that continues to resonate with fans old and new. Through their talent, charisma, and authenticity, they brought to life a series that celebrated friendship, family, and culture. As we reflect on their journey, it’s clear that the impact of "What's Happening!!" extends far beyond the screen, reminding us of the power of storytelling and representation in entertainment.
