Hey guys! Remember the good old days of classic television? Let's dive into the iconic sitcom, What's Happening!!. This show isn't just a piece of television history; it's a cultural touchstone that captured the hearts of many with its relatable characters, hilarious situations, and a groovy 1970s vibe. What's Happening!! aired from 1976 to 1979, and even spawned a sequel, What's Happening Now!!, in the late 1980s. The show primarily revolved around the lives of three African-American teenagers navigating the ups and downs of high school, friendships, and family life in Watts, Los Angeles. The main character, Raj, played by Ernest Thomas, was a bright and somewhat mischievous high schooler with a knack for getting into (and out of) trouble. His best friends, Dwayne (Haywood Nelson) and Rerun (Fred Berry), were always by his side, adding their unique personalities and comedic timing to the mix. Dwayne was the cool, suave friend, while Rerun was the lovable, overweight goofball known for his signature dance moves and insatiable appetite. The show cleverly addressed various social issues relevant to the time, such as racism, economic inequality, and the challenges faced by young people growing up in urban communities. However, it always maintained a lighthearted and comedic tone, making it accessible and enjoyable for a wide audience. What's Happening!! wasn't just a sitcom; it was a reflection of American society during the 1970s, offering viewers a glimpse into the lives and experiences of a segment of the population that was often underrepresented on television. The show's success can be attributed to its talented cast, witty writing, and its ability to strike a balance between comedy and social commentary. It remains a beloved classic that continues to resonate with audiences today, reminding us of a simpler time when laughter and friendship were all that mattered. — Casa De Los Famosos: ¿Quién Fue El Eliminado?
Memorable Characters of What's Happening!!
What's Happening!! wouldn't have been the same without its unforgettable cast of characters. Each character brought a unique dynamic to the show, contributing to the overall humor and heartwarming moments that made it so popular. Let's take a closer look at some of the key players:
- Raj (Ernest Thomas): As the main character, Raj was the glue that held the group together. He was a smart, ambitious high school student with a creative mind and a penchant for writing. Raj often found himself in tricky situations, but his quick thinking and resourcefulness usually helped him find a way out. His character resonated with many young viewers who saw themselves in his struggles and aspirations.
- Dwayne (Haywood Nelson): Dwayne was the smooth-talking, confident member of the trio. He was always impeccably dressed and had a way with words, often using his charm to get himself and his friends out of trouble. Dwayne's character added a touch of sophistication to the group, balancing out Raj's mischievousness and Rerun's goofiness.
- Rerun (Fred Berry): Arguably the most iconic character on the show, Rerun was the lovable, overweight friend with a heart of gold. He was known for his signature dance moves, his love of food (especially hamburgers), and his infectious laughter. Rerun's comedic timing was impeccable, and he often stole the show with his hilarious antics. Despite his sometimes clumsy nature, Rerun was a loyal and supportive friend who always had his buddies' backs.
- Mama (Mabel King): As Raj's no-nonsense mother, Mama was the matriarch of the Thomas household. She was a strong, independent woman who worked hard to provide for her family. Mama was a voice of reason and often dispensed sage advice to Raj and his friends. Her tough love approach was balanced with a deep sense of caring and protectiveness for her son.
- Dee (Danielle Spencer): Dee was Raj's younger sister, a sassy and precocious girl who often got on her brother's nerves. Despite their sibling rivalry, Dee and Raj shared a close bond. Dee was known for her quick wit and her ability to hold her own against the older boys. Her character added a youthful and energetic element to the show.
These characters, along with the talented actors who portrayed them, made What's Happening!! a truly special and memorable sitcom. Their interactions, relationships, and individual quirks contributed to the show's enduring popularity and its ability to connect with audiences on a personal level.
The Enduring Appeal of What's Happening!!
What's Happening!! continues to captivate audiences for several reasons. Its humor is timeless, relying on relatable situations and character-driven comedy rather than topical jokes that might not age well. The show's focus on friendship, family, and the challenges of growing up resonates with viewers of all ages. What's Happening!! also holds a special place in the hearts of those who grew up watching it. For many, it was one of the few shows on television that featured African-American characters in positive and relatable roles. The show's portrayal of a close-knit community in Watts, Los Angeles, offered a glimpse into a world that was often overlooked by mainstream media. What's Happening!! helped to break down stereotypes and promote understanding between different cultures and backgrounds. The show's success paved the way for other sitcoms featuring predominantly black casts, such as The Cosby Show, A Different World, and Martin. What's Happening!! also had a significant impact on popular culture. Rerun's signature dance moves became a national craze, and his catchphrases entered the lexicon. The show's fashion and music styles influenced trends of the time, and its positive message of friendship and community continues to inspire people today. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to the show, What's Happening!! offers a nostalgic and entertaining look back at a simpler time. Its timeless humor, relatable characters, and positive message make it a classic sitcom that will continue to be enjoyed for generations to come. So, grab some popcorn, gather your friends and family, and get ready to groove to the sounds of What's Happening!!. You won't be disappointed! — How A 5% Win In Wisconsin's Popular Vote Could Lead To Electoral Vote Loss Exploring Election Scenarios
Behind-the-Scenes Facts About What's Happening!!
Beyond the laughs and memorable moments, What's Happening!! has some fascinating behind-the-scenes stories that add another layer of appreciation for this classic sitcom. For instance, did you know that Fred Berry, who played Rerun, wasn't originally a dancer? He actually learned those iconic moves specifically for the show! His dedication to the role and his natural comedic talent made Rerun an instant fan favorite. Also, the show faced some controversies during its run. There were disputes over royalties and creative control, which led to some cast changes and ultimately contributed to the show's cancellation. Despite these challenges, the cast and crew remained dedicated to delivering quality entertainment to their viewers. What's Happening!! also served as a launching pad for many of its stars. Ernest Thomas, who played Raj, went on to have a successful career in television and film. Haywood Nelson, who played Dwayne, became a motivational speaker and advocate for youth education. And Danielle Spencer, who played Dee, continued to act and later pursued a career in veterinary medicine. The show's impact extended beyond the screen, inspiring young people to pursue their dreams and make a positive difference in their communities. What's Happening!! remains a testament to the power of television to entertain, educate, and inspire. Its legacy lives on through reruns, DVD releases, and online streaming platforms, allowing new generations to discover the magic of this beloved sitcom. So, next time you watch What's Happening!!, remember the hard work, dedication, and talent that went into making it a classic. It's a show that deserves to be celebrated for its humor, its heart, and its lasting impact on American culture.
What's Happening Now!!: The Sequel
In the late 1980s, fans of What's Happening!! were delighted to see the return of their favorite characters in a sequel series called What's Happening Now!!. This continuation picked up several years after the original, catching up with Raj, Dwayne, and Rerun as they navigated adulthood. While the sequel didn't quite capture the same magic as the original, it still offered plenty of laughs and heartwarming moments for fans. What's Happening Now!! saw Raj working as a writer, Dwayne as a computer programmer, and Rerun managing a burger joint. The show explored the challenges they faced as they balanced their careers, relationships, and responsibilities. One of the notable additions to the cast was Shirley Hemphill, who reprised her role as Shirley, the sassy waitress from the original series. Her character provided a familiar and comforting presence for fans. However, What's Happening Now!! also faced some challenges. The absence of some key cast members from the original series was felt by many viewers. And the show struggled to find its own identity, often relying too heavily on nostalgia and callbacks to the original. Despite these challenges, What's Happening Now!! provided a satisfying conclusion to the stories of these beloved characters. It showed that even as they grew older and faced new challenges, their friendship and loyalty to each other remained strong. The sequel series may not be as well-remembered as the original, but it's still worth checking out for fans who want to see what happened to Raj, Dwayne, and Rerun after their high school days. It's a reminder that even as life changes, the bonds of friendship can endure. — White Allen Honda: New & Used Hondas In Dayton, OH
