Haywood Nelson, a legendary figure in the entertainment industry, is most notably recognized for his iconic role as Dwayne in the groundbreaking TV show "What's Happening!!". Dwayne, a charming and down-to-earth teenager, won over audiences with his catchphrase "Hey, HEY, Hey!" and became a beloved character. Haywood's portrayal of Dwayne earned him the distinction of being the first Black TV teenage sex symbol, showcasing his unique blend of sweetness, humor, wit, and likability that endeared him to both girls and guys.
With a career spanning over 40 years, Haywood Nelson has been an integral part of the entertainment community, starting as a child actor in the 1960s with numerous national commercials under his belt. He made his feature film debut in 1972's "Mixed Company" and soon transitioned to Broadway, starring in Herb Gardner's "Thieves" at the Broadhurst and Longacre Theaters. Haywood's versatility has led him to guest-star in various TV shows, including "Sanford and Son" and "Grady", before landing the role of Dwayne in "What's Happening!!".
After a successful three-season run, Haywood pursued his passion for architecture and electronics engineering, even returning to the stage in the mid-2000s with a production at Lincoln Center's Alice Tully Hall. He has also made appearances in TV shows like "The Parkers" and films like "Dickie Roberts" for Adam Sandler's Happy Madison Productions.
Today, Haywood continues to work in the entertainment industry, making personal appearances as himself and consulting for various production companies as an analyst and data scientist. As an active humanitarian, Haywood is dedicated to promoting artistic growth, exemplary education, and ethical behavior, as well as providing youth with access to historical heroes and their achievements.
