Danielle Spencer, best known for playing Dee Thomas on the groundbreaking 1970s sitcom ‘What’s Happening!!,’ has died at age 60 following a battle with gastric cancer. The former child actress turned veterinarian passed away on August 11, 2025, in the Richmond, Virginia area, leaving behind a legacy as one of television’s earliest prominent Black child stars.
Spencer portrayed the witty younger sister Dee Thomas in 65 episodes of ABC’s ‘What’s Happening!!’ (1976-1979) and 16 episodes of its sequel ‘What’s Happening Now!!’ Her character became iconic for breaking stereotypes, offering one of the first fully realized portrayals of a Black adolescent girl on network television. The show centered on three teenage boys navigating life in Watts, Los Angeles, with Spencer’s Dee serving as both comic relief and moral conscience.
The actress faced significant challenges during her youth, surviving a 1977 car crash that killed her stepfather/manager Tim Pelt. After leaving acting, Spencer earned a Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine in 1993, demonstrating the same determination that characterized her childhood career. She relocated from California to Virginia in 2014, living with her mother Cheryl Pelt while battling recurring health issues including prior breast cancer.
Spencer died due to complications from gastric cancer culminating in cardiac arrest, according to family spokesperson Sandra Jones. At the time of her death, she was residing outside Richmond near family members who provided care during her illness. Her passing occurred just one day before the news became public on August 12.
Her brother, jazz musician Jeremy Pelt, confirmed Spencer fought courageously until the end, describing her as ‘a very loving spirit’ in an official statement. On Instagram, he memorialized her as more than a child star – noting her roles as aunt, daughter, veterinarian, and his personal protector. Tributes highlighted her positive outlook during health struggles and her groundbreaking cultural impact.
Beyond acting, Spencer took pride in her veterinary career and the historical recognition of ‘What’s Happening!!’ at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History. In a 2016 interview, she expressed awe that the show remained culturally relevant decades later, acknowledging its trailblazing representation during television’s formative diversity era.
Spencer’s death marks the loss of a pioneering figure who transitioned successfully from child stardom to professional achievement. Her journey from Hollywood sets to veterinary clinics inspired many, particularly in the Black community where she remained a symbol of resilience. The entertainment industry recognizes her contribution to expanding opportunities for young Black actors in television.
She is survived by her mother Cheryl Pelt and brother Jeremy. No public memorial plans have been announced. Her legacy endures through syndicated reruns of ‘What’s Happening!!’ that continue introducing new generations to her groundbreaking performance as Dee Thomas.
