What's Happening Now!! (1985–1988)
- Sep 6, 1985
- 2 min read
What's Happening Now!! is an American sitcom that served as a sequel to the 1970s hit What's Happening!!, bringing back beloved characters with a fresh take on their adult lives. Airing in first-run syndication, the show retained the original’s lighthearted humor and focus on friendship, while updating the setting to reflect the characters’ growth. Its nostalgic charm and engaging cast made it a notable part of 1980s television.
Created by Eric Monte, with development by Larry Wilmore and others, What's Happening Now!! was produced to capitalize on the original series’ popularity, overseen by executive producers like Michael G. Moye. The series premiered on September 7, 1985, and its final episode aired on March 26, 1988. The revival kept the spirit of the original, blending comedy with relatable stories about young adulthood and community.
Plot
Set in Los Angeles, What's Happening Now!! follows Raj Thomas, now a married aspiring writer, along with his childhood friends Dwayne Nelson and Rerun Stubbs, as they navigate adult life. Raj and his wife, Nadine, run a diner, while Dwayne works as a computer programmer, and Rerun chases various schemes. The show explores themes of friendship, career struggles, and family life, with humor drawn from their misadventures and the return of familiar faces from the original series.
Cast
Ernest Thomas as Roger “Raj” Thomas
Haywood Nelson as Dwayne Nelson
Fred Berry as Freddie “Rerun” Stubbs (seasons 1–2)
Danielle Spencer as Dee Thomas (recurring)
Shirley Hemphill as Shirley Wilson
Anne-Marie Johnson as Nadine Hudson Thomas
Martin Lawrence as Maurice Warfield (season 3)
Seasons and Episodes
Season 1 (1985–1986) – 22 episodes
Season 2 (1986–1987) – 22 episodes
Season 3 (1987–1988) – 22 episodes Total Episodes: 66
Cultural Impact
What's Happening Now!! capitalized on the nostalgia of its predecessor, resonating with fans through its familiar characters and updated storylines. The show’s focus on an African-American cast navigating adulthood continued the original’s legacy of representation, influencing later sitcoms like Living Single. Its syndication on networks like BET and streaming on platforms like Tubi kept it alive for new audiences, with Martin Lawrence’s early role adding to its historical significance.
Honors and Recognition
What's Happening Now!! received a Young Artist Award nomination for Best Young Actor for Martin Lawrence in 1988. The ensemble, particularly Ernest Thomas and Shirley Hemphill, was praised for recapturing the original’s charm, with the show earning appreciation for its lighthearted take on adult life and community.
Conclusion
What's Happening Now!! remains a nostalgic extension of its 1970s predecessor, celebrated for its humor, heart, and portrayal of friendship and growth. Its connection to the original series and its relatable stories ensure its place as a charming chapter in 1980s sitcom history.
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