Danielle Spencer Net Worth ,Age,Husband,Career,Height,More
Danielle Spencer net worth in 2025 is estimated to be $1 million. She is an American actress, veterinarian, and author.
Danielle rose to fame as the sassy and unforgettable Dee Thomas on the hit sitcom What’s Happening. Her journey from a child star to a veterinarian is a story of resilience, passion, and success.
Danielle Spencer Bio Table
Full Name | Danielle Spencer |
---|---|
Date of Birth | June 24, 1965 |
Place of Birth | Trenton, New Jersey, USA |
Age (2025) | 59 years |
Height | 5 feet 4 inches |
Weight | Approximately 125 pounds |
Profession | Actress, Veterinarian, Author |
Education | Tuskegee University Veterinary School (1996) |
Net Worth | $1 million |
Marital Status | Divorced (ex-husband: Garry Fields) |
Notable Works | What’s Happening!!, What’s Happening Now!! |
Danielle Spencer Early Life and Childhood
Danielle Spencer was born on June 24, 1965, in Trenton, New Jersey. She was raised by her mother, Cheryl Pelt, who was a writer.
Her parents divorced when she was young, and her mother later married Tim Pelt. Danielle considered Tim her father.
The family moved to the Bronx, New York, where Danielle’s talent for acting began to shine. At just eight years old, she started taking acting classes, preparing herself for a future in the entertainment industry.
Danielle Spencer Height | Danielle Spencer Weight
Danielle Spencer is 5 feet 4 inches tall and weighs approximately 125 pounds. Her height and petite build made her perfect for her role as Dee Thomas during her childhood acting days.
Danielle Spencer Rise to Fame
In 1976, Danielle landed the role of Dee Thomas on the ABC sitcom What’s Happening!!. The show was inspired by the film Cooley High and focused on the lives of three teenagers in Los Angeles.
Danielle’s character, Dee, became an instant favorite. Her sharp wit and sassy one-liners brought humor and charm to the series.
The show was so successful that it ran until 1979, making Danielle one of the most recognized young faces on television.
Danielle Spencer Overcoming Personal Challenges
Danielle’s rise to fame was not without its challenges. In 1977, she was involved in a severe car accident that tragically took the life of her stepfather, Tim Pelt. Danielle herself was in a coma for three weeks.
This tragic event deeply affected her life, but she showed incredible strength and perseverance. After recovering, she returned to acting and continued her education.
Danielle Spencer Education
After What’s Happening!! ended, Danielle focused on her education. Inspired by her late stepfather’s love for animals, she decided to pursue a career in veterinary medicine.
- University of California, Davis: Danielle initially attended UC-Davis to study veterinary medicine.
- Tuskegee University Veterinary School: She transferred to Tuskegee University in Alabama, where she earned her veterinary degree in 1996.
Her transition from Hollywood to veterinary care showcased her versatility and determination.
Return to Acting
Danielle briefly returned to acting during her college years. She reprised her role as Dee Thomas in the sequel series, What’s Happening Now, which aired from 1985 to 1988.
In 1997, Danielle appeared in the film As Good as It Gets, where she played a veterinarian. This role was a perfect blend of her acting and veterinary skills.She also starred in the short film Peter Rabbit and the Crucifix in 2001.
Danielle Spencer Husband
Danielle married Garry Fields in 1999. Garry worked as a marketing manager and also served as her publicist. The couple married in Marina Del Rey, California. Unfortunately, their marriage ended in divorce in 2013.
Despite her personal challenges, Danielle has remained strong and focused on her professional life.
Danielle Spencer Career Highlights
Danielle Spencer Acting Career
- 1976-1979: Starred as Dee Thomas in What’s Happening!!.
- 1985-1988: Reprised her role in What’s Happening Now!!.
- 1997: Appeared in As Good as It Gets.
- 2001: Played a veterinarian in Peter Rabbit and the Crucifix.
Danielle Spencer Writing Career
In 2010, Danielle published her memoir, Through the Fire: Journal of a Child Star. The book gave readers a glimpse into her life as a child star and her journey to becoming a veterinarian.
Danielle Spencer Awards
- 2006 TV Land Award: Danielle received this award for her iconic role as Dee Thomas.
- Recognized as one of the first Black female child stars on American television.
Danielle Spencer Net Worth Breakdown
Danielle Spencer’s $1 million net worth comes from various sources:
- Acting: Earnings from her roles in What’s Happening!! and other projects.
- Veterinary Career: Income from her work as a licensed veterinarian.
- Book Sales: Royalties from her memoir.
- Public Appearances: Participation in events, interviews, and reunions.
Danielle Spencer Social Media Presence
Platform | Handle | Followers |
---|---|---|
@danispencerofficial | 55,000+ | |
@danispencer | 30,000+ | |
Danielle Spencer Official | 25,000+ |
Danielle uses her social media platforms to share updates about her life, career, and love for animals.
Interesting Facts About Danielle Spencer
- She was one of the first Black female child stars on television.
- Danielle is a member of the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority.
- Her role in As Good as It Gets mirrored her real-life veterinary career.
- She survived a coma following a tragic car accident in 1977.
- Danielle continues to inspire fans through her resilience and success.
Conclusion
Danielle Spencer’s journey is one of determination and reinvention. From her childhood fame as Dee Thomas to her success as a veterinarian, she has proved that life after Hollywood can be just as fulfilling.
With a net worth of $1 million, Danielle remains a shining example of resilience and passion.
FAQs
What is Danielle Spencer’s net worth in 2025?
Danielle Spencer’s net worth is estimated to be $1 million.
What is Danielle Spencer best known for?
She is best known for her role as Dee Thomas on What’s Happening!!.
Did Danielle Spencer stop acting?
Danielle shifted her focus to veterinary medicine but has occasionally appeared in films and TV shows.