Overview

Haywood Knowles Nelson Jr. (born March 25, 1960) is an American actor. He is best known for his role as Dwayne Nelson in the television series ‘What’s Happening!!’, which aired from 1976 to 1979, as well as in its spin-off series ‘What’s Happening Now!!’, from 1985 to 1988. Nelson began his career at a young age, appearing in numerous national commercials. Besides ‘What’s Happening!!’, Nelson has also appeared in various other television series and films, including ‘Sanford and Son’, ‘Grady’, ‘The White Shadow’, and ‘Evilspeak’. Beyond acting, Nelson has also been involved in work behind the scenes, including as a digital media executive. Nelson is considered by some to be one of the first Black teen idols on television.

What Is Haywood Knowles Nelson Jr.’s Net Worth

Haywood Knowles Nelson Jr., an American actor recognized for his role as Dwayne Nelson in the sitcom “What’s Happening!!”, has accumulated a net worth estimated at $500,000. This figure reflects his earnings from acting roles spanning several decades, as well as his current position as a digital media executive at IEG Holding. While concrete details regarding the breakdown of his net worth, such as specific income from acting, investments, or his executive role, are not publicly available, this estimate provides a general understanding of his financial standing.

Early Career and Acting Roles

Haywood Nelson began his professional acting career in the early 1970s, initially securing a role on the daytime soap opera “As The World Turns”. The exact duration and compensation details for his stint on “As The World Turns” remain undisclosed, but this early experience laid the foundation for his subsequent acting endeavors. Beyond his role in the soap opera, Nelson secured co-starring and guest-starring positions in various television projects. Some of these include appearances on shows like “Mixed Company,” “Sanford and Son,” “Grady,” and “Kojak.” His resume also includes a participation in “The Brady Bunch Variety Hour.” Details about the specific episodes, duration of roles, and associated earnings for each of these appearances are not publicly accessible.

In 1976, Haywood Nelson was cast as Dwayne Nelson in “What’s Happening!!”, a role that significantly boosted his recognition. He remained with the show for its entire run. While specific salary figures for his role in “What’s Happening!!” aren’t publicly available, it is understood that a starring role in a successful sitcom would have provided a consistent income stream. Following “What’s Happening!!”, Nelson broadened his acting portfolio with roles in projects such as “The White Shadow” and “Evilspeak.” Again, the exact financial terms associated with these roles remain private.

Later Career and Transition to Digital Media

Haywood Nelson had the opportunity to reprise his role as Dwayne Nelson in “What’s Happening Now!” in 1985, which was a continuation of the original series. The financial specifics related to his involvement in “What’s Happening Now!” are not publicly documented. In the early 1990s, Nelson made a guest appearance on “Dragnet” before stepping away from acting to pursue a career behind the camera. Nelson transitioned to a career in digital media, eventually assuming the role of a digital media executive at IEG Holding. Details about his compensation package, equity, or other benefits associated with his role at IEG Holding are not publicly available. However, executive positions typically offer a combination of salary, bonuses, and potential equity or stock options, which contribute to an individual’s overall net worth.

Summary of Haywood Knowles Nelson Jr.’s Net Worth

In summary, Haywood Knowles Nelson Jr.’s estimated net worth of $500,000 reflects his career in acting and his transition to a digital media executive. While the specific figures for his earnings from various roles are not fully transparent, the estimated net worth provides insight into his financial standing in 2025.

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