Danielle Spencer, who played the iconic role of Dee Thomas in the 1970s sitcom “What’s Happening!!”, has passed away at the age of 60 after a years-long battle with cancer. Born in Trenton, New Jersey, and raised in New York, Spencer began her acting career at just nine years old and went on to become a veterinarian and animal rights advocate. Her portrayal of Dee, the intelligent and sassy younger sister, earned her a spot as one of the show’s memorable characters. Spencer also appeared in a 1980s reboot of the series, “What’s Happening Now!!”, before pursuing a career in veterinary medicine. She is survived by her brother, musician Jeremy Pelt, and her mother, Cheryl Pelt.
Source: https://www.npr.org/2025/08/12/nx-s1-5500593/danielle-spencer-who-played-little-sister-dee-on-whats-happening-dies-at-60