Remembering Danielle Spencer: From Beloved ‘What’s Happening!!’ Star to Compassionate Veterinarian
You might remember Danielle Spencer as Dee Thomas, the sharp-witted little sister from the 1970s sitcom What’s Happening!! —a role that brought her into millions of homes and hearts. Sadly, Danielle passed away recently at the age of 60 after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Her death was shared by her co-star Haywood Nelson, who spoke warmly of her strength and kindness, describing her as a “brilliant, loving, positive, pragmatic warrior.”
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Danielle’s journey was remarkable and inspiring. She first captured attention as a precocious child actress on What’s Happening!! , which aired from 1976 to 1979 and was loosely based on the 1975 film Cooley High . Danielle’s character, Dee Thomas, was known for her memorable catchphrase, “Ooooh, I’m gonna tell Mama!” and for being the smart-aleck little sister in the Thomas family. The show was a hit and even revived in the mid-1980s as What’s Happening Now!! , where Danielle reprised her role.
But Danielle’s life off-screen was filled with tremendous challenges. During the show’s second season in 1977, she was involved in a devastating car accident on the Pacific Coast Highway that tragically claimed the life of her stepfather, Tim Pelt, who had been driving and trying to protect her. Danielle was left in a coma for three weeks and sustained serious injuries, including broken limbs and pelvis. Though she eventually returned to acting, the accident left lasting effects, including paralysis from a spinal condition that developed later in life, likely related to the crash.
After What’s Happening!! ended, Danielle made a bold career change. She and her family moved to Africa, and later she pursued higher education in veterinary medicine, earning her doctorate in 1993 from Tuskegee University. Her love for animals was profound—so much so that she was even cast as a veterinarian in the 1997 film As Good as It Gets . Danielle worked as a veterinarian for many years, dedicating herself to animal care and advocacy.
In 2014, Danielle was diagnosed with breast cancer and underwent a double mastectomy. She also faced emergency brain surgery in 2018 to stop bleeding. Throughout her health battles, a GoFundMe campaign was set up to help cover her medical expenses, reflecting the deep affection and support from fans and friends alike.
Despite everything she endured, Danielle was known for her positive outlook. In interviews, she spoke about the importance of living life fully, enjoying every moment, and doing what makes you happy. Her resilience, compassion, and spirit touched many lives beyond the TV screen.
Danielle Spencer is survived by her mother Cheryl, her brother Jeremy, and a legacy of courage and kindness that will continue to inspire. She will be remembered not just as the sassy Dee Thomas, but as a devoted veterinarian, a fighter, and a shining example of grace under pressure.
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