

What's Happening!!
What's Happening!! is an American television sitcom that aired on ABC from August 5, 1976 to April 28, 1979. The show premiered as a summer series. With good ratings and reviews, and after the failure of several other shows on the network, What's Happening!! returned in November 1976 as a weekly series. It remained a regular show until 1979; ratings were modest. What's Happening!! was loosely based on the motion picture Cooley High, also written by Eric Monte.
Insights
Plot Summary
Set in Watts, Los Angeles, 'What's Happening Now!!' continues the story of Raj, Rerun, and Dwayne as they navigate adolescence, relationships, and societal issues. The show explores their coming-of-age experiences with humor and heart, often touching upon the challenges faced by young Black men in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Their adventures highlight themes of friendship, family, and striving for a better future amidst everyday life.
Critical Reception
As a spin-off of the original 'What's Happening!!', the series 'What's Happening Now!!' received a mixed to positive reception. While it was praised for continuing the relatable storylines and character development, some critics noted that it didn't always reach the heights of the original. However, it maintained a loyal audience appreciative of its humor and its portrayal of Black life. The show often succeeded in balancing comedic moments with genuinely touching or thought-provoking situations.
What Reviewers Say
- Appreciated for its continuation of beloved characters and relatable humor.
- Successfully tackled relevant social issues with a light touch.
- While not always as groundbreaking as its predecessor, it offered warm, engaging storytelling.
Google audience: Audience reception for 'What's Happening Now!!' was generally positive, with many viewers appreciating the return of the familiar characters and the show's commitment to humor. Fans often cited the show's ability to blend comedy with meaningful storylines as a key strength, finding the characters and their situations to be endearing and authentic.
Fun Fact
While the original series 'What's Happening!!' ended in 1979, 'What's Happening Now!!' is often mistakenly referred to as a continuation or revival. However, 'What's Happening Now!!' is actually a separate series that premiered in 1985, with different producers and a slightly altered premise, though it featured the original actors reprising their roles.
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