5 days ago
Former child star Danielle Spencer, beloved for her role as Dee Thomas, has died following a battle with gastric cancer and cardiac arrest.
Danielle Spencer Death: 'What's Happening!!' Star Dies at 60
Danielle Spencer death has been confirmed by her family, marking a sad day for fans of the beloved 1970s sitcom What's Happening!!. The former child actress, who brought to life the witty and unforgettable Dee Thomas, died on August 11, 2025, at age 60, due to gastric cancer and cardiac arrest.
A Beloved Star from 'What's Happening!!'
Spencer starred in 65 episodes of What's Happening!!, the ABC sitcom set in South Los Angeles' Watts neighborhood, and later appeared in 16 episodes of its sequel What's Happening Now!. Fans remember her sharp one-liners, spirited personality, and the sibling dynamic she portrayed with on-screen brothers Raj and Rerun.
Survivor, Scholar, and Veterinarian
In 1977, Spencer survived a devastating car crash that claimed the life of her stepfather and manager, Tim Pelt. Her resilience led her to pursue a career outside Hollywood, earning a doctorate in veterinary medicine in 1993. She dedicated years to animal care before returning to the public spotlight for fan events and interviews.
Family Tributes and Final Moments
Spencer's younger brother, jazz musician Jeremy Pelt, shared an emotional tribute on Instagram, calling her 'a loving spirit who fought courageously until the very end.' He revealed he was at her side when she took her last breath, describing her as 'my sister and protector.'
She is survived by her mother, Cheryl Pelt, her brother Jeremy, and his three children, to whom she was a devoted aunt.
Cultural Legacy and Smithsonian Honor
In 2016, Spencer's work was immortalized in the Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture, a recognition she described as surreal and deeply meaningful.
The Danielle Spencer death marks the loss of a trailblazer who was more than a TV star—she was a survivor, healer, and inspiration to many.
