How is Hollywood remembering Danielle Spencer after her death at 60? Tributes pour in

Danielle Spencer, famous for being the child star in What's Happening, reportedly died on August 11 at the age of 60.

Spencer, who played the role of Dee Thomas in the sitcom, was diagnosed with breast cancer and had emergency surgery in 2018. Her co-star, Haywood Nelson, who portrayed the role of Dwayne in What's Happening, told The Hollywood Reporter:

"She suffered for a very long time but did it with a great deal of courage."

A GoFundMe page was also created in her name to raise donations, which has raised $10,688 to date. She passed away at a hospital in Richmond, Virginia, according to the outlet.

The news has come as a shock to many, including the fans and Hollywood stars, who have been sharing tributes and messages in Danielle Spencer's memory on social media.

Tributes pour in for ‘What’s Happening’ star Danielle Spencer

The news of her death was first announced by What's Happening's Haywood Nelson to The Hollywood Reporter. He added a tribute post on Instagram, remembering the late actress with the caption:

"Dr. Dee, our brilliant, loving, positive, pragmatic warrior, without fail, has finally found her release from the clutches of this world and a body. We celebrate Danielle Spencer and her contributions as we regret to inform her departure and transition from a long battle with cancer."

The caption continued:

"We have lost a daughter, sister, family member, “What’s Happening” cast member, veterinarian animal rights proponent and healer, and cancer heroine."

Spencer's brother, Jeremy Pelt, remembering her sister, wrote on Instagram:

"August 11, 2025 will forever be a reminder of the day that I lost a big part of myself. After many years, my big sister, Dr. Danielle Louise Spencer lost her battle with cancer."

Continuing the caption, he noted:

"Many of you knew her as "Dee", but she was more than a child actress. She was a friend, an auntie to my three children who adored her, she was a daughter- and in many ways, my mother's best friend, she was a veterinarian, she was someone who always remained positive even during her darkest days fighting this disease. And she was MY sister and protector."

American Radio DJ Donnie Simpson wrote on Instagram:

"So sad to learn of Danielle Spencer’s passing. She sadly lost her battle to cancer. We are losing so many of our television icons too soon. We all have great memories of Danielle’s character, “Dee,” on “Whats Happening!” and “What’s Happening Now!” Sending condolences and prayers to the Spencer family, friends, and fans. RIP 🙏🏾dove🕊️"

Fans showed their love for the actress in the comments, sharing memories and saying how much they enjoyed her acting as Dee.

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