Ernest Lee Thomas was born in an economically-low neighborhood in Gary, Indiana. Thomas's attempt to become a successful person was to move to New York and become a Broadway actor. He made his professional debut as as a Broadway actor appearing in the 1974 revival production of Love For Love, also in the 1975 revival production of 'The Member Of The Wedding'. Thomas also became a graduate of the prestigious American Academy Of Dramatic Arts in New York City. He then moved to Los Angeles to further pursue his career as a television and film actor. Shortly after moving there he received a role on the starting sitcom _"The Jeffersons" .
Is a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated.
Starred in Coca-Colas Columbia Pictures Industrys "Whats Happening!!" and "Whats Happening Now!" .
