Lecture Notes: Whatever Happened to C. Thomas Howell?

Introduction

• C. Thomas Howell is a well-known actor with a diverse career.
• Famous for roles in The Outsiders and E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial.
• Recently known for music and recurring roles in series like Criminal Minds.

Name Change to Tommy Howell

• Changed professional name to Tommy Howell for personal connection.
• "Tommy" was a personal nickname; "C" stood for Christopher.
• Aimed to be more approachable and focus on music career.

Major Life Events

Ruptured Appendix

• In 2003, suffered a serious health scare with a ruptured appendix.
• Resulted in a long hospital stay and significant weight loss.
• Executive produced the film Sick People based on his health experiences.

Acting Career Highlights

Role in E.T.

• Originally cast to another actor; Howell got the role by demonstrating the ability to smoke a cigarette.

The Outsiders and Red Dawn

• Key role in The Outsiders, noted for a real punch incident during filming.
• Developed close ties with the Sheen family through films like Red Dawn.

Personal Interests

Junior Rodeo Champion

• Excelled as a junior rodeo champion in California.
• Attributes therapeutic and grounding values to horses.

Music Career

• Passionate about music and songwriting.
• Released debut album American Storyteller and performs in Nashville.

Fun Facts

• As a child, 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 Tommy Howell, continues to explore new avenues in his career while maintaining a legacy in acting and music.