Holly Robinson Peete Speaks Out Against Emmys Snub
Holly Robinson Peete is standing up for late actress Dr. Danielle Spencer after the Emmys left her out of this year’s “In Memoriam” tribute. The 77th Emmy Awards, held September 14, honored stars who passed away this past year, but viewers noticed Spencer was missing from the televised segment.
Peete, an actress and philanthropist, took to social media to call out the oversight. She paid tribute to Spencer, best known as Dee Thomas on the sitcom What’s Happening!!, and demanded more respect for Black women in Hollywood legacies.
“How could the Emmys forget to mention my friend Dr. Danielle Spencer—our beloved & HILARIOUS Dee Thomas from What’s Happening!! in their ‘In Memoriam’??💔 We will honor her, even if they didn’t. ✊🏾” Peete wrote.
Danielle Spencer Remembered for Her Legacy
Danielle Spencer died in August at age 60 from gastric cancer and cardiac arrest. She left behind a unique legacy, not only as a beloved actress but also as a veterinarian who inspired many. Fans remember her wit and humor on What’s Happening!!, where she became a household name during the 1970s.
Peete reminded followers that Spencer’s cultural impact was too important to be overlooked. She expressed disappointment that Spencer’s memory was relegated to a website list, rather than being included in the primetime broadcast.
“And putting it on the website is even more insulting bc who looks at that?” she wrote. “They are ALL important. But we can celebrate them all with a little more time and a little less production. That package should be only about those who are gone. Fix it!”
Peete Suggests Fix for Emmy Memorials
Beyond her criticism, Peete offered solutions for improving the “In Memoriam” segment in future shows. She suggested cutting the live performances to give more time to focus on the photos of those being honored.
“Easy solution: don’t have a performer at all and just run the package with one song in the background,” she advised. “That gives more time and more coverage! Nobody will mind 30 more seconds.”
Her remarks highlight ongoing concerns about how Hollywood chooses to honor talent. Many feel production choices often overshadow the respect that should be shown to the deceased.
Other Stars Also Left Out of Tribute
Danielle Spencer was not the only omission. Actor Tony Todd, known for Candyman, Final Destination, and decades of television roles, was also missing from the televised memorial. His widow, Fatima Cortez Todd, publicly criticized the snub and called attention to the lack of respect for his long career.
“Tony had a long list of TV credits, but he was not respected as much by the industry he gave his artistic life,” she said. “The award shows look over many who should be honored. That’s on them.”
The double omission raises questions about who gets prioritized during televised tributes, and whether the industry does enough to honor diverse voices and contributions.
A Call to Honor Black Cultural Icons
For Holly Robinson Peete, the issue is about more than a missed name. It’s about honoring Black cultural icons who helped shape American television. She made it clear that Spencer deserved better recognition, not just from the industry but from the culture as a whole.
Peete’s public stand echoes a larger push for equity and respect in Hollywood, ensuring that Black women who paved the way are never forgotten. “We will honor her, even if they didn’t,” Peete declared—a powerful reminder of the responsibility communities hold to protect legacies.
