Lecture Notes: Whatever Happened to C. Thomas Howell?

Introduction

• C. Thomas Howell is a well-known actor with a diverse career spanning from early roles to more recent appearances.
• Famous for roles in movies like The Outsiders and E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial.
• Known more recently for music and recurring roles in series like Criminal Minds.

Name Change to Tommy Howell

• Howell changed his professional name to Tommy Howell for a more personal connection.
• "Tommy" was a nickname used personally; the "C" stood for Christopher.
• Wanted to be more approachable and focus on a music career.

Major Life Events

• Ruptured Appendix:
  • In 2003, Howell suffered a serious health scare with a ruptured appendix, resulting in a long hospital stay and significant weight loss.
  • Later executive produced the film Sick People based on his health experiences.

Acting Career Highlights

• Role in E.T.:
  • Originally the role was cast to another actor, but Howell got it after demonstrating the ability to smoke a cigarette.
• The Outsiders and Red Dawn:
  • Howell was a key part of The Outsiders, known for a real punch incident during filming.
  • Developed close ties with the Sheen family through work on films like Red Dawn.

Personal Interests

• Junior Rodeo Champion:
  • Howell excelled as a junior rodeo champion in California.
  • Attributes therapeutic and grounding values to his experience with horses.
• Music Career:
  • Howell has a passion for music and songwriting.
  • Released a debut album, American Storyteller, and performs in Nashville.

Fun Facts

• As a child, Howell taught John Travolta to ride a mechanical bull for the film Urban Cowboy.
• Connected with Patrick Swayze early in his career.

Conclusion

• C. Thomas Howell, now known as Tommy Howell, continues to explore new avenues in his career while maintaining a legacy in acting and music.