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What's Happening!! (Syndicated, TV Land)

common sense media says

1970s slapstick comedy hasn't aged all that well.

parents & educators say
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What parents need to know

Parents need to know that this iconic '70s sitcom focuses on three high schoolers growing up in urban Los Angeles. It hasn't aged as well as some of its sitcom peers: Some of the characters behave in stereotypical ways, and while they're not necessarily bad role models, they aren't exactly the most empowering African-American characters, either, particularly not in a modern context. Sarcastic exchanges between characters (particularly Dee) are frequent and may not set an ideal example for kids. Parents should also know that Raj and Dee's dad isn't an ideal father figure, and his relationship with the family isn't always positive.

Positive messages: The show features working-class African-American characters who exhibit some stereotypical characteristics. While the main characters aren't necessarily negative role models, they're not empowering figures, either. The messages behind the show aren't really about social commentary, but rather about humor. Raj is a good student, goes to college, and is pursuing a writing career. Dee is often sarcastic to the point of being rude and often tries to blackmail the boys. Bill Spencer isn't an ideal father figure, but he does try to maintain a relationship with his kids.
Violence: Not applicable.
Sex: Some dating and discussion of teen boy/girl relationships.
Language: Not applicable.
Consumerism: Occasional references to items by product name, such as "Airwick."
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Not applicable.
Our ratings and reviews are informed by child development guidelines. Learn more.

More on What's Happening!!

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
Families can talk about the kinds of social messages that TV shows offer their viewers. What are producers trying to achieve by providing social commentaries? Why do some shows seem to offer no social messages at all? Do you think audiences are more likely to notice that kind of message further down the line, when times have changed? Families can also talk about using stereotypes as a form of humor. Is stereotyping ever appropriate?

What's the story?

What's the story?
WHAT'S HAPPENING!! is an iconic sitcom about three urban African-American teens living in L.A.'s working-class Watts community in the late 1970s. The show centers on Roger "Raj" Thomas (Ernest Thomas), who lives with his obnoxious younger sister, Dee (Danielle Spencer), and his mother, Mabel (Mabel King). A good student and aspiring writer, Raj spends his free time hanging out with jovial, beret-sporting Dwayne Nelson (Haywood Nelson) and the pleasant but rather shy Freddy "Rerun" Stubbs (Fred Berry). The three young men are mostly occupied with typical high school problems -- from dealing with teachers to finding dates -- and often wind up getting into mishaps while finding ways to figure things out. Meanwhile, Raj and Dee are also trying to build a positive relationship with their father, Bill Thomas (Thalmus Rasulala), who ran out on them when they were younger.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 

Unlike its contemporary Good Times, What's Happening!! isn't committed to presenting enlightening social commentary or providing empowering African-American role models. Most of the problems the gang faces here are typical of what kids from any community have to deal with. While the show has its funny moments (especially when Dee offers her strong, often sarcastic opinions), much of the show's humor stems from a slapstick-like comedy style that's reminiscent of the minstrel show stereotypes of the 1930s

But despite their jive-talking (and often silly) banter and somewhat-stereotypical personas, Raj, Dwayne, and Rerun are generally good kids who have supportive, loving families. More importantly, the show highlights the importance of family, friendship, and community. What's Happening!! may not have aged as well as some of its contemporaries, but it could definitely be worse.

TV themes & details

TV Details
TV Rating: NR
Network: Syndicated
Cast: Ernest Thomas, Fred Berry, Haywood Nelson
Genre: Comedy
Where to watch: Syndicated
This review was written by Melissa Camacho
 
 

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Most useful reviews by all members

Lost fan for life
kid, 13 years old
9
 
What's Happening should be on everyone's television
I'm suprised nobody has yet to review this classic sitcom. No slapstick is present in here, just funny comedic jokes is all. Some are judged on body types, but nothing to de-meaning. The cast is mainly kids so anybody will be entertained for the entire show. No cursing is present except for Shut Up. Another thing about this show is the theme song. LOL!!!!
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