Danielle Spencer, a child star best known for her role on the ABC sitcom "What's Happening!!" in the 1970s, has reportedly died. She was 60.Danielle Louise Spencer (June 24, 1965 – August 11, 2025) found fame early as Dee Thomas, the hilarious, wise-cracking younger sister in ABC’s 1970s sitcom What’s Happening!! (1976–1979). Her portrayal, complete with the catchphrase “Ooooh, I’m gonna tell Mama!”, made a lasting impression and placed her among the era’s most memorable child sitcom characters.
Spencer reprised her role in the sequel What’s Happening Now!! (1985–1988), earning a recurring presence in 16 episodes.
Early Life and Acting Breakthrough
Born in Trenton, New Jersey, and raised in the Bronx, Spencer began acting around age 9. A few years later, she landed the role of Dee, which launched her into the national spotlight.
Tragedy and Health Challenges
While filming the second season of What’s Happening!! in 1977, Spencer and her step-father, Tim Pelt—who had managed her career—were involved in a devastating car accident. The crash killed him, left her in a three-week coma, and resulted in severe injuries.
These injuries had long-term consequences, including spinal stenosis that left her paralyzed for nearly a year after surgery in 2004.
Further health struggles followed in 2014, when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. She underwent a double mastectomy and chemotherapy, later battling a brain bleed that required emergency surgery in 2018.
A Remarkable Second Career
Despite these challenges, Spencer embraced a new path. She attended UC Davis, followed by Tuskegee University Veterinary School, earning her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine in 19. She practised as a veterinarian for many years and became a passionate advocate for animal rights.
Notably, she became the first child actor inducted into the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture, a testament to her lasting cultural impact.
Final Years and Legacy
Danielle Spencer passed away on August 11, 2025, in Richmond, Virginia, after a prolonged battle with cancer. She was 60.
Her “brilliant, loving, positive, pragmatic warrior” spirit was honoured by her former co-star Haywood Nelson, who praised her as a “Shero,” beloved across family, television, and veterinary communities.
Spencer is survived by her mother, Cheryl Pelt, and her brother, jazz musician Jeremy Pelt.
In summary, Danielle Spencer’s life embodied resilience, reinvention, and heart. From early fame to profound tragedy, from academic achievement to advocacy, and ultimately her enduring legacy—Watt’s Love, humour, and compassion defined her journey.
Source: Some or all of the content was generated using an AI language model
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