Haywood Nelson is an American actor and has an estimated net worth of $500,000. Haywood Nelson is most recognized for his role as Dwayne Nelson on the iconic sitcom What’s Happening!! and the spinoff What’s Happening Now!!, making him one of the first Black teen idols in American television.
Haywood Nelson was the “cool” laid-back guy, the person who had the memorable smile and the catchphrase of “Hey, HEY, Hey!” At that time in the late 1970s, he was the national television idol. Years and years later, he is arguably the sociocultural benchmark of what Black representation looked like at this time and space in history.
Early Life
Haywood Knowles Nelson Jr. was born in New York City on March 25, 1960, and raised in Queens, New York. Nelson began acting at 6 years old, doing national commercials for Campbell’s Soup, Hot Wheels, and Burger King.
That experience laid the foundation for what was to come. It gave him the poise, confidence, and presence that still defines Haywood Nelson.
Acting Career
Prior to Nelson being cast in a breakout role, he had a long run in a handful of acting gigs: guest spots on massive hit shows of the 1970s such as Kojak and Sanford and Son.
He also did theater, performing on Broadway in the play Thieves. In 1976, Nelson was cast as Dwayne Nelson in the sitcom What’s Happening!!, which was based on the film Cooley High. The show followed three teenage friends, Raj, Rerun, and Dwayne, as they lived life in Los Angeles.
The show was on the air for three seasons (1976–1979)
Nelson virtually appeared in every episode. The Dwayne character became a fan favorite because of his upbeat, good-natured personality.
Nelson would return to the role in the sequel show, What’s Happening Now!!, in 1985. This latest version had Dwayne in college, and the Dwayne character was “reintroduced” to a new generation of viewers. The show ran until 1988, furthering the longevity of Nelson’s presence on TV.
Other Work
After the sitcom, Nelson appeared in the TV movie Mixed Blessings and made guest appearances in other shows.
Eventually, he began to work behind the camera in production and technical roles, which allowed him to continue to work in the entertainment business without relying on acting.
Personal Life and Legacy
Outside of acting, Haywood Nelson has always been very approachable and kind with fans. He participates in cast reunions, interviews, and fan events, and keeps the memory of What’s Happening!! alive.
Nelson was one of the first young Black male teen idols on network television, and his career has some historical significance. Nelson’s depiction of Dwayne introduced audiences to a positive, fun, and relatable image of a Black youth, which was a unique perspective in the 1970s.
To this day, fans remember his cantankerous voice, friendly demeanor, and, of course, his catchphrase, “Hey, HEY, Hey!”
Haywood Nelson Net Worth
In 2025 Haywood Nelson’s net worth is estimated to be $500,000. Nelson’s net worth was earned with his salary from What’s Happening!! and What’s Happening Now!!, guest appearances on television and in film, production and technical work behind the camera, and public appearances at fan conventions.
FAQs About Haywood Nelson
What is Haywood Nelson’s net worth?
Haywood Nelson has an estimated worth of $500,000.
What is Haywood Nelson most famous for?
Haywood Nelson is most famous as Dwayne Nelson in the sitcom What’s Happening!! and the continuation of the show What’s Happening Now!!.
Did Haywood Nelson work on other shows or films?
Yes. Haywood Nelson appeared in shows such as Kojak, Sanford and Son, and the TV movie Mixed Blessings before and after appearing in What’s Happening!!.
Did Haywood Nelson keep working in Hollywood?
Yes. Aside from acting, Haywood Nelson worked behind the camera in production and technical work.
Why was Haywood Nelson significant to TV history?
Haywood Nelson was significant to TV history because he was one of the first Black teen idols, and his role broke barriers and uplifted Black youth in prime-time television.
Does Haywood Nelson still communicate with fans?
Yes. Haywood Nelson is active at fan events and cast reunions and celebrates the legacy of What’s Happening!!
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