"What’s Happening!" aired on ABC from August 5, 1976, to April 28, 1979, documenting the lives of three African-American teens in the Watts neighborhood of Los Angeles, focusing on themes of friendship, family, and social issues.
Ernest Thomas played the role of Raj, whose character was inspired by the common experiences of youth navigating life’s challenges, making him relatable to a broad audience.
Fred Berry portrayed Rerun, a character known for his dance moves and catchphrase "Hey, hey, hey." Berry later became a well-known figure in other television series, but his performance as Rerun remains iconic.
Haywood Nelson Jr.
played Dwayne, providing a more intellectual foil to the more carefree characters, and his character dealt with real-life challenges such as self-identity and peer pressure, reflecting social dynamics of the time.
Mabel King played the matriarch Mama, who was central to the family-centric storyline, often providing wisdom and guidance to the younger characters, showcasing the struggles of single-parenthood during that era.
Shirley Hemphill portrayed Dee, a character who was both a friend and a source of comic relief, often balancing the show’s heavier themes with humor and showcasing the importance of friendship.
The show was inspired by the film "Cooley High," which also focused on African-American youth in the same era, emphasizing the socio-economic realities of their lives while integrating humor.
"What’s Happening!" faced challenges in its writing process; early episodes included elements based on the actors' real-life experiences, blending reality with scripted comedy to create authenticity.
The series broke ground for African-American representation on television by focusing on the everyday lives of Black teens, offering a narrative that was often overlooked in mainstream media during the 1970s.
The show's popularity led to a sequel, titled "What’s Happening Now!!", which aired from 1985 to 1988, bringing back many of the original characters and continuing their stories as young adults.
Fred Berry famously advocated for better working conditions and pay for the cast, reflecting the broader struggles of actors at the time, particularly those from minority backgrounds.
Shirley Hemphill later pursued comedy, performing stand-up routines and securing guest spots on other television series, showcasing her versatility as an actress and comedian.
Ernest Thomas featured in the multi-camera sitcom "Everybody Hates Chris," as Mr.
Omar, demonstrating his continued relevance in the television industry decades after "What’s Happening!"
The show’s setting in the Watts neighborhood was significant because it highlighted the cultural experiences of that community, while also addressing social issues like unemployment and educational inequality.
The laugh track used during episodes enhanced the comedic elements but also reflected the traditional sitcom formats of the time, which were designed to invoke a sense of community and shared experience among viewers.
The use of music in "What’s Happening!" played a crucial role in establishing the show’s mood, often featuring popular songs of the 1970s, which connected with younger audiences and brought a lively atmosphere to the scenes.
Rerun’s character popularized a dance move known as “The Rerun,” contributing to dance culture and the influence of television on youth trends during the late 1970s.
The writing staff, which included the legendary Bud Yorkin, played a vital role in shaping the show’s direction, infusing episodes with humor that was both relevant and reflective of contemporary societal issues.
The show’s cancellation in 1979 was largely attributed to shifting viewer preferences and network strategies, but it has since gained a cult following, reflecting the show's lasting impact and resonance with audiences.
"What’s Happening!" serves as a historical artifact, conveying insights about race relations, socio-economic conditions, and youth culture of the 1970s, making it a valuable subject for sociological and cultural studies.