Intriguing Behind-the-Scenes Of "What's Happening!!" Cast

Step into the vibrant world of 1970s television with "What's Happening!!" and get to know the remarkable cast behind this iconic sitcom. As one of the pioneering shows that highlighted African-American culture, "What's Happening!!" charmed viewers with its humor and relatable storylines. The series became a cultural touchstone, leaving a lasting legacy in the annals of television history. In this article, we will delve into the lives and careers of the talented actors who brought these beloved characters to life.

The sitcom, which aired from 1976 to 1979, revolved around the lives of three African-American teenagers navigating the ups and downs of adolescence in Los Angeles. Its relatable themes and comedic elements resonated with audiences, making it a staple of American television. But behind the laughs and light-hearted plots, there lies a rich tapestry of stories about the actors who portrayed Raj, Rerun, Dee, and the rest of the gang. Join us as we explore their journeys, both on and off the screen.

From the breakout performances to the behind-the-scenes dynamics, the "What's Happening!!" cast members have each left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. In this comprehensive article, we will provide an in-depth look at the cast's personal lives, career milestones, and the show's enduring impact. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the series, this exploration of the "What's Happening!!" cast promises to offer fascinating insights and a deeper appreciation for the beloved sitcom.

Table of Contents

• Biography of the Main Cast
• Ernest Thomas as Raj Thomas
• Frederick Berry as Rerun
• Danielle Spencer as Dee Thomas
• Haywood Nelson as Dwayne Nelson
• Shirley Hemphill as Shirley Wilson
• Mabel King as Mama Thomas
• Career After "What's Happening!!"
• Legacy and Impact of the Show
• Behind the Scenes Insights
• Fan Favorites and Memorable Episodes
• Reunion and Revivals
• Cultural Significance
• What Happened to the Cast?
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Conclusion

Biography of the Main Cast

The main cast of "What's Happening!!" consisted of talented actors who brought their characters to life with charisma and authenticity. Below is a table summarizing the personal details and biodata of the primary cast members:

Ernest Thomas as Raj Thomas

Ernest Lee Thomas, born on March 26, 1949, in Gary, Indiana, is best known for his role as Roger "Raj" Thomas in "What's Happening!!". Raj is depicted as the intelligent and ambitious leader of the group, often finding himself in humorous predicaments. Thomas's portrayal of Raj was characterized by his endearing delivery of witty dialogues and his dynamic presence on screen.

Prior to his breakthrough role, Thomas had a strong theatrical background, having studied at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts. His dedication to his craft was evident in his performances, which resonated with audiences across the country. Following the success of "What's Happening!!", Thomas reprised his role in the sequel series "What's Happening Now!!" and appeared in various television shows and films, including a notable role in Spike Lee's "Malcolm X".

Outside of acting, Ernest Thomas has been involved in motivational speaking, sharing his experiences and insights with aspiring actors and fans. He has also written a memoir detailing his journey in the entertainment industry, offering readers a glimpse into his life beyond the screen.

Frederick Berry as Rerun

Frederick Allen Berry, affectionately known as "Rerun", was born on March 19, 1951, in St. Louis, Missouri. His character, Frederick "Rerun" Stubbs, became an iconic figure in pop culture, known for his vibrant personality, signature dance moves, and colorful beret. Berry's energetic performances and comedic timing made Rerun a fan favorite, cementing his place in television history.

Before joining the cast of "What's Happening!!", Berry was a member of the dance troupe The Lockers, where he honed his skills and gained recognition in the entertainment industry. His dance background was seamlessly integrated into his character, adding an extra layer of charm to Rerun's persona.

Following the conclusion of the series, Berry continued to embrace his role as Rerun, making appearances in commercials and television specials. He also participated in the sequel series "What's Happening Now!!". Despite facing personal challenges, Berry remained a beloved figure among fans until his passing in 2003.

Danielle Spencer as Dee Thomas

Danielle Spencer, born on June 24, 1965, in Trenton, New Jersey, portrayed Dee Thomas, the quick-witted younger sister of Raj. Spencer's character was known for her sassy comebacks and playful banter with her brother and his friends. Dee's clever remarks and humorous presence added a delightful dynamic to the show.

Spencer began her acting career at a young age, joining the cast of "What's Happening!!" when she was just a child. Her natural talent and charm shone through in her performances, earning her a special place in the hearts of viewers. After the series ended, Spencer took a step back from acting to pursue a career in veterinary medicine, demonstrating her versatility and passion for helping animals.

Despite her shift in career focus, Spencer has occasionally returned to the spotlight, participating in reunions and reflecting on her time on the show. Her contributions to "What's Happening!!" continue to be celebrated by fans and critics alike.

Haywood Nelson as Dwayne Nelson

Haywood Nelson, born on March 25, 1960, in New York City, portrayed Dwayne Nelson, the charming and level-headed member of the trio. Known for his signature catchphrase, "Hey, hey, hey!", Dwayne was the voice of reason among his friends, often navigating their antics with a cool and composed demeanor.

Nelson's career began at a young age, with early appearances in television shows and commercials. His role in "What's Happening!!" catapulted him to fame, and he quickly became a recognizable face in the entertainment industry. After the series, Nelson reprised his role in "What's Happening Now!!" and continued to act in various projects.

Beyond acting, Nelson has been involved in producing and directing, showcasing his multifaceted talents in the industry. He remains a respected figure among fans, appreciated for his contributions to the beloved sitcom and his continued involvement in the arts.

Shirley Hemphill as Shirley Wilson

Shirley Hemphill, born on July 1, 1947, in Asheville, North Carolina, brought to life the character of Shirley Wilson, the sassy and outspoken waitress at the local hangout, Rob's Place. With her sharp wit and no-nonsense attitude, Shirley became an integral part of the show's comedic fabric.

Before joining the cast of "What's Happening!!", Hemphill made a name for herself in the world of stand-up comedy, performing in clubs and on television. Her comedic prowess translated seamlessly to her role on the show, earning her acclaim and recognition from audiences and critics alike.

After the series, Hemphill continued to perform stand-up comedy and appeared in various television shows, including her own sitcom, "One in a Million". She remained a beloved figure in comedy until her untimely passing in 1999, leaving behind a legacy of laughter and joy.

Mabel King as Mama Thomas

Mabel King, born on December 25, 1932, in Charleston, South Carolina, portrayed Mabel Thomas, the loving and stern mother of Raj and Dee. Known for her commanding presence and heartfelt performances, King brought depth and authenticity to her character, making Mama Thomas a cherished part of the series.

King's career spanned across stage, television, and film, with notable performances in productions such as "The Wiz" and "Scrooged". Her versatility and talent made her a respected figure in the entertainment industry, earning her a dedicated fanbase.

Throughout her career, King was an advocate for representation and diversity in media, using her platform to inspire and uplift others. Her legacy continues to be celebrated, both for her contributions to "What's Happening!!" and her broader impact on the arts.

Career After "What's Happening!!"

The cast of "What's Happening!!" each embarked on unique career paths following the conclusion of the series. While some continued to work in the entertainment industry, others pursued different passions and interests. Ernest Thomas, for instance, remained active in acting, appearing in various television shows and films, while also engaging in motivational speaking and writing.

Frederick Berry continued to embrace his role as Rerun, participating in reunions and making guest appearances on television. Despite facing personal challenges, he remained a beloved figure among fans until his passing. Danielle Spencer transitioned to a career in veterinary medicine, demonstrating her versatility and dedication to helping animals. She occasionally returned to the spotlight for reunions and special events related to the show.

Haywood Nelson pursued opportunities in producing and directing, showcasing his multifaceted talents in the industry. He continued to act in various projects, maintaining a respected presence in the entertainment world. Shirley Hemphill furthered her career in comedy, performing stand-up and appearing in television shows until her untimely passing.

Mabel King continued to act in stage and film productions, using her platform to advocate for representation and diversity in media. Her legacy as a talented actress and advocate continues to be celebrated.

Legacy and Impact of the Show

"What's Happening!!" holds a special place in television history as one of the pioneering sitcoms that highlighted African-American culture and experiences. Its relatable themes, comedic elements, and memorable characters resonated with audiences, making it a staple of American television. The show's impact extends beyond its humor and entertainment value, as it played a significant role in shaping representation and diversity on screen.

The series tackled various social issues and challenges faced by its characters, providing a platform for important conversations and reflections. Its portrayal of African-American teenagers and their families offered a refreshing and authentic perspective, challenging stereotypes and paving the way for future shows with similar themes.

The legacy of "What's Happening!!" is evident in its continued popularity among fans and its influence on subsequent generations of television creators and viewers. The show's enduring appeal and cultural significance are a testament to its timeless quality and the talent of its cast and creators.

Behind the Scenes Insights

Behind the scenes, the cast and crew of "What's Happening!!" formed a close-knit and supportive community, working together to bring the show's stories and characters to life. The camaraderie and collaboration among the cast members were evident in their performances and contributed to the show's success.

Ernest Thomas, Frederick Berry, Danielle Spencer, Haywood Nelson, Shirley Hemphill, and Mabel King developed strong friendships and bonds, both on and off the screen. Their chemistry and rapport translated into their characters' interactions, adding an authentic and relatable dimension to the show.

The production team, led by creators Eric Monte and Michael Leeson, worked diligently to ensure the show's quality and authenticity. Their commitment to storytelling and representation helped establish "What's Happening!!" as a pioneering series that broke new ground in television.

Fan Favorites and Memorable Episodes

"What's Happening!!" featured numerous fan-favorite episodes that continue to be celebrated for their humor and relatability. One memorable episode is "The Burger Queen," where the gang enters a talent contest to win a trip to Hollywood. The episode showcases the characters' unique talents and comedic timing, making it a standout moment in the series.

Another beloved episode is "Dwayne's Dream," in which Dwayne imagines himself as a famous basketball player. The episode creatively explores themes of ambition and self-discovery, resonating with viewers of all ages. The show's ability to balance humor with meaningful messages contributed to its enduring popularity.

Throughout its run, "What's Happening!!" delivered countless laughs and heartwarming moments, leaving a lasting impression on fans and making it a cherished part of television history.

Reunion and Revivals

The success and popularity of "What's Happening!!" led to the creation of a sequel series, "What's Happening Now!!", which aired from 1985 to 1988. The show reunited the original cast, exploring their characters' lives as adults while maintaining the humor and charm of the original series.

The reunion series was well-received by fans, who were eager to see their favorite characters return to the screen. It provided an opportunity for the cast to reconnect and continue their legacy, further cementing the show's place in television history.

In addition to the sequel series, the cast has participated in various reunions and special events, celebrating the show's impact and connecting with fans. These gatherings serve as a testament to the enduring appeal and cultural significance of "What's Happening!!".

Cultural Significance

"What's Happening!!" holds significant cultural importance as one of the first sitcoms to focus on African-American teenagers and their experiences. The show broke new ground in television, offering a refreshing and authentic portrayal of African-American culture and family dynamics.

Its impact extends beyond entertainment, as it provided a platform for important conversations about representation and diversity in media. The show's success paved the way for future series with similar themes, contributing to a more inclusive and diverse television landscape.

The cultural significance of "What's Happening!!" is evident in its continued popularity and influence, as it remains a beloved and cherished part of television history.

What Happened to the Cast?

Over the years, the cast of "What's Happening!!" has experienced various career developments and personal milestones. Ernest Thomas continued to act and engage in motivational speaking, sharing his experiences and insights with audiences. Frederick Berry embraced his role as Rerun, participating in reunions and making guest appearances on television.

Danielle Spencer pursued a career in veterinary medicine, demonstrating her versatility and dedication to helping animals. She occasionally returned to the spotlight for reunions and special events related to the show. Haywood Nelson explored opportunities in producing and directing, showcasing his multifaceted talents in the industry.

Shirley Hemphill furthered her career in comedy, performing stand-up and appearing in television shows until her untimely passing. Mabel King continued to act in stage and film productions, using her platform to advocate for representation and diversity in media.

Despite the passage of time, the cast remains a beloved and respected part of television history, appreciated for their contributions to "What's Happening!!" and their broader impact on the entertainment industry.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What was "What's Happening!!" about?

"What's Happening!!" was a sitcom that followed the lives of three African-American teenagers navigating adolescence in Los Angeles. The show featured relatable themes, comedic elements, and memorable characters, making it a staple of American television.

2. Who were the main cast members of "What's Happening!!"?

The main cast included Ernest Thomas as Raj Thomas, Frederick Berry as Rerun, Danielle Spencer as Dee Thomas, Haywood Nelson as Dwayne Nelson, Shirley Hemphill as Shirley Wilson, and Mabel King as Mama Thomas.

3. What was the impact of "What's Happening!!" on television?

"What's Happening!!" played a significant role in shaping representation and diversity on screen, offering a refreshing and authentic portrayal of African-American culture and family dynamics. Its success paved the way for future series with similar themes.

4. Was there a sequel to "What's Happening!!"?

Yes, the success of "What's Happening!!" led to the creation of a sequel series, "What's Happening Now!!", which aired from 1985 to 1988 and reunited the original cast.

5. What happened to Frederick Berry after the show?

Frederick Berry continued to embrace his role as Rerun, participating in reunions and making guest appearances on television. He remained a beloved figure among fans until his passing in 2003.

6. Did Danielle Spencer pursue a career outside of acting?

Yes, Danielle Spencer pursued a career in veterinary medicine, demonstrating her versatility and dedication to helping animals. She occasionally returned to the spotlight for reunions and special events related to the show.

Conclusion

The "What's Happening!!" cast brought to life a beloved sitcom that continues to resonate with audiences decades after its original airing. Through their performances, they offered a refreshing and authentic portrayal of African-American culture, leaving an indelible mark on television history. The legacy of the show and its cast members serves as a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring appeal of relatable characters and themes. As we celebrate the contributions of the "What's Happening!!" cast, their impact on the entertainment industry and popular culture remains significant and cherished.

For further reading on the influence of African-American sitcoms in the 1970s, consider exploring resources available through the Museum of Broadcast Communications.