What's Happening Cast: Where Are Your Favorite Characters Now?
Do you ever think about those classic television shows that just stick with you, the ones that felt like visiting old friends every week? For many, that special feeling comes from "What's Happening!!", a popular American sitcom that aired its episodes from 1976 to 1979. It was, you know, a pretty big deal back then, bringing laughter and relatable stories into homes across the country.
This show, with its really endearing characters and very relatable themes, has truly earned a lasting spot in television history. It first showed up as a summer series, and then, because other shows got cancelled and it had good ratings and reviews from the people who watch and write about TV, it came back as a regular weekly series. That's actually quite a journey for a show, isn't it?
At the very heart of this series' success, quite honestly, lies its unforgettable group of actors. You might have found yourself wondering, "What happened to the cast of What's Happening?" Well, we're here to find out what's happening with all of them now. We'll revisit the actors who brought these memorable people to life, and you'll get to see where they are today and how their work lives changed after the show ended. From successful acting careers to, perhaps, some unexpected turns, join us as we explore the journeys of the cast of 'What's Happening!!'
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- The Show That Captured Hearts
- Ernest Thomas: Roger "Raj" Thomas
- Haywood Nelson: Dwayne Nelson
- Fred Berry: Freddy "Rerun" Stubbs
- The Enduring Appeal of "What's Happening!!"
- Frequently Asked Questions About the Cast
Introduction
The television landscape of the late 1970s was a rather special time, filled with shows that really tried to mirror the everyday lives of people. "What's Happening!!" was, you know, a shining example of this. It showed the lives of three high school friends, Raj, Dwayne, and Rerun, as they navigated the ups and downs of teenage life in Los Angeles. This show, which aired on ABC, quickly became a favorite for many families, offering laughter and sometimes even a little bit of wisdom.
The stories often centered on school adventures, trying to get dates, and dealing with family stuff, all with a lot of humor. The show's ability to connect with its audience came from its very real portrayal of friendships and the sometimes silly, sometimes serious situations young people find themselves in. It really felt like a peek into a genuine group of friends, and that's a big reason why it resonated with so many viewers, even decades later.
As we look back at this beloved show, it's natural to wonder about the people who brought these memorable characters to life. What have they been doing since the cameras stopped rolling on "What's Happening!!"? Did they keep acting, or did their paths lead them somewhere completely different? We're going to explore just that, giving you an idea of where the whats happening cast members are now, as of late 2023.
The Show That Captured Hearts
"What's Happening!!" first came onto our screens on August 5, 1976, and it ran until April 28, 1979. It was a sitcom that, in some respects, truly captured the spirit of its time. The show's setting in a bustling Los Angeles neighborhood, with its focus on a group of young, mostly Black, friends, offered a perspective that was both specific and universally appealing. You could, for instance, easily see yourself or your friends in their situations.
The storylines were typically lighthearted, often involving the characters' attempts to make money, impress girls, or simply hang out at the local soda shop. Raj, played by Ernest Thomas, was often the more sensible one, trying to keep his friends out of trouble, which, as you might guess, didn't always work out. Dwayne, played by Haywood Nelson, was known for his quiet demeanor and his signature "Hey, hey, hey!" greeting, a phrase that, you know, became quite iconic.
Then there was Rerun, brought to life by Fred Berry, whose character was perhaps the most boisterous and memorable, especially for his dance moves and his sometimes over-the-top schemes. The dynamics between these three friends, plus other characters like Raj's sassy sister Shirley, really made the show feel lived-in and genuine. It's that kind of chemistry that helps a show stick around in people's minds for a long, long time.
The show's enduring charm is a testament to its simple yet powerful storytelling and, more than anything, the talented actors who made us believe in their world. It showed everyday life in a way that felt real and, frankly, quite fun. The way they dealt with common teenage issues, sometimes clumsily, sometimes cleverly, resonated with a lot of people. It's almost as if the show offered a little slice of life, a bit of a comfort for viewers.
It's interesting to consider how a show from that era can still spark so much interest today. People are still asking about the whats happening cast, which tells you something about its lasting impact. The show, you see, was more than just a series of funny situations; it was about friendship, family, and growing up, themes that are, well, timeless. That's probably why it continues to find new fans, even now.
Ernest Thomas: Roger "Raj" Thomas
Ernest Thomas played Roger "Raj" Thomas, the central character who often served as the voice of reason among his friends. Raj was, in a way, the anchor of the group, usually the one trying to do the right thing, even when his friends' antics pulled him into hilarious predicaments. His character was relatable for many who saw themselves as the more thoughtful one in their own circle of friends, always trying to balance fun with responsibility.
Thomas brought a quiet strength and a lot of warmth to the role, making Raj a very believable and likable teenager. His interactions with Dwayne and Rerun were, you know, a core part of the show's appeal. Raj's character development over the series, as he faced various challenges of growing up, really helped viewers connect with him on a personal level. He was, in some respects, the heart of the show.
Biography
Ernest Thomas, the actor who brought Roger "Raj" Thomas to life, started his journey in the performing arts before his time on "What's Happening!!". While specific details about his early life and training are not provided in the source material, it's clear he possessed the talent and presence needed to lead a popular sitcom. His portrayal of Raj showcased a young actor with a natural ability to convey both humor and genuine emotion, which is, honestly, quite a skill.
His role on the show cemented his place in television history, making his face and character recognizable to millions. He became, for many, the very image of a thoughtful, sometimes exasperated, teenager. It's a role that, you know, really stuck with people, defining a generation of TV watchers. The show gave him a platform to really show what he could do as an actor.
Personal Details and Bio Data
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Character Portrayed | Roger "Raj" Thomas |
| Actor's Name | Ernest Thomas |
| Primary Role on Show | Main protagonist, often the voice of reason. |
| Other Details | Information not provided in source material. |
After "What's Happening!!"
After "What's Happening!!" finished its run, Ernest Thomas continued to pursue a career in acting, which is, you know, often the path for actors from popular shows. He has appeared in a variety of television shows and films over the years, showing his range beyond the role of Raj. His career has included appearances in other well-known sitcoms and dramas, allowing him to take on different types of characters, which is, frankly, a sign of a versatile performer.
He's had roles in shows like "Everybody Hates Chris," where he played Mr. Omar, and has been a guest on many other series. This steady work in the entertainment world really shows his dedication to his craft. He has, in some respects, quietly built a very consistent career, showing up in places you might not expect but always delivering a solid performance. It's pretty cool to see actors from your favorite old shows still working.
His presence in various projects has kept him in the public eye, even if not always in a leading role. It's a testament to his talent that he has been able to adapt and find new opportunities in the constantly changing landscape of television and film. For fans of the whats happening cast, seeing Ernest Thomas pop up in new roles is always a pleasant surprise, a little reminder of where he started.
Haywood Nelson: Dwayne Nelson
Haywood Nelson played Dwayne Nelson, the quietest of the trio, known for his signature "Hey, hey, hey!" catchphrase. Dwayne was, in a way, the loyal friend, always there for Raj and Rerun, even if he didn't always have a lot to say. His character often provided a calm presence amidst the more boisterous antics of his friends, which, you know, created a nice balance within the group.
Nelson's portrayal of Dwayne was subtle but effective, making him a very memorable part of the whats happening cast. Despite his reserved nature, Dwayne had a lot of heart and was a truly dependable friend. His quiet reactions to the crazy situations often spoke volumes, earning him a special place in the hearts of viewers. It's almost as if his silence made his occasional outbursts even funnier.
Biography
Haywood Nelson, who brought Dwayne Nelson to life, started his acting career at a young age, gaining recognition for his role on "What's Happening!!". While detailed biographical information is not provided in the source material, his early start in television suggests a natural inclination towards performing. His ability to create such a distinct and beloved character, even with fewer lines than his co-stars, speaks to his skill as a performer, which is, you know, pretty impressive.
His work on the show allowed him to become a familiar face to audiences across the country. He became, for many, the embodiment of that quiet, supportive friend everyone wishes they had. It's a role that, quite honestly, left a lasting impression, showing that even a character of few words can be incredibly impactful. That's a pretty big achievement for any actor, especially a young one.
Personal Details and Bio Data
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Character Portrayed | Dwayne Nelson |
| Actor's Name | Haywood Nelson |
| Primary Role on Show | Loyal and quiet friend in the main trio. |
| Other Details | Information not provided in source material. |
Life Beyond the Sitcom
After his time as Dwayne on "What's Happening!!", Haywood Nelson continued to pursue acting for a period, though perhaps not as consistently as some of his co-stars. He has made appearances in various television shows and films, showing his versatility beyond the role that made him famous. It's pretty common for actors from popular shows to explore different types of projects, and Nelson was no exception, seeking out new creative outlets, you know, to broaden his experience.
He has, in some respects, also explored other areas beyond acting, which is a path many performers take. Sometimes, after being in the spotlight for a while, people find new passions or interests to pursue. His journey after the show highlights the varied paths that actors can take once a successful series concludes. For fans of the whats happening cast, it's always interesting to see how their lives unfold.
His contributions to "What's Happening!!" remain a significant part of television history, and his portrayal of Dwayne is still remembered fondly by fans. He truly helped create a character that felt real and, frankly, quite endearing. It's almost as if his quiet charm made him stand out even more. His legacy from the show is, you know, quite strong, even today.
Fred Berry: Freddy "Rerun" Stubbs
Fred Berry played Freddy "Rerun" Stubbs, arguably the most iconic and recognizable character from "What's Happening!!". Rerun was, you know, known for his distinctive fashion sense, particularly his beret and suspenders, and his truly unforgettable dance moves. He was the lovable, sometimes clumsy, friend who always seemed to get into the most outrageous situations, often with hilarious results.
Berry's portrayal of Rerun was full of energy and charisma, making the character an instant favorite. His dance routines, especially, became a cultural phenomenon, cementing Rerun's place in television lore. He was, in a way, the comedic engine of the show, bringing a lot of physical humor and a very infectious enthusiasm. It's pretty hard to think of the show without thinking of Rerun's antics, honestly.
Biography
Fred Berry, the actor behind the iconic Rerun, had a unique background that contributed
Whats Happening cast signed photo
What's Happening partial cast 1977 Stock Photo - Alamy
Which 'What's Happening!!' Cast Members Are Still Alive?
