Parents' Guide to

What's Happening!!

By Melissa Camacho, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 10+

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

What's Happening!! Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this TV show.

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Is It Any Good?

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Kids say (1):

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 Details

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