Last Updated on 2 months by Vijay Kumar
Danielle Spencer was an American actress best known for her iconic role as Dee Thomas on the hit 1970s sitcom What’s Happening!!. Starting her career as a child actor, she won hearts with her lively and spirited performance. Beyond acting, Danielle was a resilient woman who overcame major health battles and later became a veterinarian. She passed away on August 11, 2025 at the age of 60 in Richmond, Virginia, U.S.
Danielle Spencer – Early life
Danielle Louise Spencer was born on June 24, 1965, in Trenton, New Jersey, to writer Cheryl Pelt. Her parents separated when she was very young, and she considered her stepfather, Tim Pelt, as her father figure. She grew up in the Bronx, New York, and started acting around age eight, taking acting classes early on. In 1976, she landed the role of Dee Thomas, the younger sister, on the sitcom What’s Happening!!, which quickly became a hit despite being a mid-season replacement.
Danielle Spencer – Career
Danielle Spencer began her career as a child actress, gaining widespread recognition for her role as Dee Thomas on the hit sitcom What’s Happening!! from 1976 to 1979, where her energetic and witty portrayal made her a fan favorite. She returned to this role in the sequel series What’s Happening Now!! during the mid-1980s while simultaneously pursuing her education. After stepping back from acting, Danielle made a notable appearance in the 1997 film As Good as It Gets. Beyond entertainment, she shifted her focus to veterinary medicine, earning a doctorate from Tuskegee University in 1996, reflecting her passion for animals. Alongside her veterinary career, she authored a memoir in 2011, Through the Fire: Journal of a Child Star, sharing her experiences in Hollywood and her battles with health issues. Throughout, Danielle balanced multiple roles, showing versatility and determination both on and off screen.
Danielle Spencer – Personal life
Danielle Spencer was married twice and was close to her family, including her brother Jeremy Pelt. She survived a serious car accident in 1977 that affected her health for years. Her first husband was Garry Fields. They married in 1999 and separated in 2013. Later she married with David L. David in 2014.
Danielle Spencer – Death
Danielle Spencer passed away on August 11, 2025, at the age of 60. Her death was confirmed by her brother Jeremy Pelt, who announced she had lost her battle with cancer after facing multiple serious health issues throughout her life. She died from stomach cancer at Chippenham Hospital in Richmond, Virginia.
My name is Vijay Kumar. I work as content writer and founder of this website. I am studying BSC IT. I has been writing content since 2022. I also learn about journalism.