What's Happening!! (1976–1979)
- Aug 4, 1976
- 2 min read
What's Happening!! is an American sitcom that brought vibrant humor and relatable storytelling to 1970s television, focusing on the lives of African-American teenagers. Airing on ABC, the show stood out for its authentic portrayal of friendship, family, and urban life, offering a comedic lens on everyday challenges. Its engaging cast and cultural resonance made it a beloved classic, inspiring a sequel series and enduring popularity.
Created by Eric Monte, based on his film Cooley High, What's Happening!! was developed with contributions from writers like Sally Wade and Bernie Orenstein. The series premiered on August 5, 1976, and its final episode aired on April 28, 1979. Monte’s vision, rooted in his own experiences growing up in Chicago, crafted a show that balanced humor with heartfelt moments, paving the way for later sitcoms celebrating Black culture.
Plot
Set in the Watts neighborhood of Los Angeles, What's Happening!! follows teenager Roger “Raj” Thomas, his best friends Dwayne Nelson and Freddie “Rerun” Stubbs, and his younger sister Dee. The group navigates high school, family dynamics, and teenage antics, often hanging out at Rob’s Place, a local soda shop run by Shirley. The show explores themes of friendship, ambition, and growing up, with comedy drawn from their misadventures, sibling rivalries, and interactions with parents and authority figures.
Cast
Ernest Thomas as Roger “Raj” Thomas
Haywood Nelson as Dwayne Nelson
Fred Berry as Freddie “Rerun” Stubbs
Danielle Spencer as Dee Thomas
Mabel King as Mabel “Mama” Thomas (seasons 1–2, recurring season 3)
Shirley Hemphill as Shirley Wilson
Thalmus Rasulala as Bill Thomas (recurring)
Seasons and Episodes
Season 1 (1976–1977) – 21 episodes
Season 2 (1977–1978) – 22 episodes
Season 3 (1978–1979) – 22 episodes Total Episodes: 65
Cultural Impact
What's Happening!! was a trailblazer for African-American representation on television, influencing sitcoms like The Jeffersons and Family Matters. Its catchphrases, like Dee’s “Ooh, I’m gonna tell Mama!” and Rerun’s dance moves, became pop culture staples. The show’s authentic depiction of Black teenage life resonated widely, and its syndication on networks like TV One and streaming on platforms like Tubi kept it relevant. The series inspired a sequel, What's Happening Now!! (1985–1988), and its legacy endures through nostalgic fan appreciation.
Honors and Recognition
What's Happening!! earned a Primetime Emmy nomination for Outstanding Writing in a Comedy Series in 1978. The young cast, particularly Ernest Thomas and Fred Berry, received Young Artist Award nominations for their performances. The show’s humor and cultural authenticity were praised, cementing its status as a groundbreaking sitcom of the 1970s.
Conclusion
What's Happening!! remains a cherished classic of 1970s television, celebrated for its humor, heart, and authentic portrayal of Black youth culture. Its influence on sitcoms and its enduring nostalgic appeal ensure its place as a trailblazing series that continues to entertain and inspire.
Copyright/Disclaimer
Report Errors/Contribute to Site
Comments