What Happened to the Cast of What’s Happening!!? The Tragic Turns and Quiet Triumphs
When What’s Happening!! ended its original run in 1979, fans were left wondering what became of the beloved cast. More than four decades later, the stories of the actors who brought Raj, Rerun, Dee, and the others to life reveal a mix of resilience, hardship, and in some cases, profound tragedy.
While some cast members built new careers and found stability, others faced devastating health declines, addiction, and untimely deaths.
Danielle Spencer (Dee Thomas): From Child Star to Veterinarian
Danielle Spencer played the sharp-tongued little sister Dee, known for her catchphrases “I’m telling Mama!” and “You’re gonna get it!” She was only about 10 years old when the show premiered.
At age 11, Spencer was involved in a serious car accident with her stepfather that killed him and left her in a coma for three weeks with multiple fractures. She recovered in time to return for the next season, though her injuries left lasting effects.
In 2003, she began experiencing numbness in her legs and was diagnosed with a spinal condition linked to the old accident. After surgery, she spent eight months in a wheelchair before learning to walk again with crutches.
In 2014, she was diagnosed with breast cancer and underwent a double mastectomy. Four years later, she required emergency brain surgery, again connected to complications from her childhood injuries.
Despite these challenges, Spencer left acting behind to pursue a career as a veterinarian. She earned her degree from Tuskegee University and has practiced for over 22 years in the Los Angeles area. In 2016, she was inducted into the National Museum of African American History and Culture. She has spoken openly about maintaining a positive outlook, believing there is still a greater purpose for her life.
Shirley Hemphill (Shirley Wilson): The Sharp-Tongued Waitress
Shirley Hemphill played the quick-witted waitress Shirley at the soda shop where Raj, Rerun, and Dwayne hung out. Her sharp tongue and comedic timing made her a fan favorite.
After the original series ended, she starred in her own short-lived sitcom, One in a Million, which was canceled after just a few weeks. She continued working in comedy clubs and made guest appearances on various shows before reprising her role in the sequel series What’s Happening Now!!
By the late 1990s, her health had declined significantly. In December 1999, she was found dead in her home in West Covina, California. She was only 52 years old. Authorities determined she had died of natural causes, and her body was discovered days after her passing.
Mabel King (Mama Thomas): Health Struggles and a Lonely End
Mabel King portrayed the strong, no-nonsense single mother Mama Thomas. A veteran of Broadway, she brought warmth and authority to the role.
After the original series ended, King turned down an offer to return for the sequel, feeling the character was being written as a stereotypical maid and that the show had missed an opportunity to provide better role models.
In her later years, King’s health deteriorated due to diabetes. She underwent multiple amputations, losing both legs and one arm, and suffered a stroke. She also lost her only son, Larry, in 1996.
On November 9, 1999, Mabel King passed away at age 66 from organ failure after years of dialysis. She had divorced her husband in 1989 and died alone. Her death was not publicly announced until two weeks later, and many longtime friends and colleagues were unaware and unable to attend her funeral.
Haywood Nelson (Dwayne): The Steady Presence
Haywood Nelson played the shy, awkward Dwayne and was the only main cast member to appear in every episode of the original series.
After the show ended, Nelson studied architecture and electronics engineering. He made occasional guest appearances but largely stepped away from the spotlight. He has worked behind the scenes in production and consulting.
In his personal life, Nelson has kept a very low profile. He married Canadia Sky, a member of the royal family of Saudi Arabia and Dubai, in 2014. She also serves as his attorney.
Fred Barry (Rerun): Addiction, Redemption, and Early Death
Fred Barry’s portrayal of the beret-wearing, dancing Rerun made him one of the show’s most memorable characters. He even legally changed his middle name to “Rerun.”
Behind the scenes, Barry struggled with the pressure of fame and the constant fat jokes aimed at his character. He developed serious addictions to drugs and alcohol, reportedly spending over a million dollars on partying. He attempted suicide three times.
In 1984, Barry experienced a spiritual awakening, overcame his addictions, and became an associate minister and evangelist. He dedicated the rest of his life to sharing his story of redemption.
Fred Barry passed away in 2003 at the age of 52 from natural causes.
Ernest Thomas (Raj): From Addiction to Faith
Ernest Thomas played the main character Raj, the aspiring writer and voice of reason among his friends.
After the original series ended, Thomas struggled with depression and turned to drugs, including cocaine and crack. He eventually lost everything and was evicted from his home.
Thomas credits his Muslim faith with helping him recover. He has been open about how turning back to God transformed his life. He later wrote a book, From Raj to Riches: Overcoming Life Through Faith, to inspire others.
A Cast Marked by Both Joy and Pain
The cast of What’s Happening!! brought laughter to millions during its original run and its sequel. However, many of the actors faced significant challenges afterward — from serious health issues and addiction to financial struggles and early deaths.
Some, like Danielle Spencer and Haywood Nelson, found new paths and stability. Others, like Shirley Hemphill, Mabel King, and Fred Barry, endured painful declines or passed away far too soon.
Their stories serve as a reminder that behind the laughter of beloved sitcoms often lie real human struggles — and remarkable resilience.
