Danielle Spencer, the former child star from the 1970s sitcom What’s Happening!! died, her co-star Haywood Nelson announced on August 12, 2025. Spencer was 60 years old. The late actor-turned-veterinarian was battling a form of cancer during the end of her life, and fans are wondering what her cause of death since Spencer was only 60.

Spencer starred on the show from 1976 to 1979 and later reprised her role as Thomas in the spin-off “What’s Happening Now!!” She largely left Hollywood after that to become a veterinarian. Spencer wound up portraying a veterinarian in the 1997 film “As Good As It Gets.” Spencer was 60 years old.

Child star Danielle Spencer, who portrayed Dee Thomas on the 1970s comedy TV series “What’s Happening!!,” has died at 60, according to former co-star and friend Haywood Nelson.