William Thomas Jr. was a versatile actor who appeared in several TV shows and movies, most notably as Vanessa Huxtable’s fiancé Dabnis Brickey on The Cosby Show. He also had roles in Star Trek: The Next Generation, Bruce Almighty, and Surviving Christmas. He died on November 14, 2020, at the age of 73. What was the cause of his death? Here are some facts you need to know.
Early Life and Career
William Thomas Jr. was born on November 8, 1947, in Columbus, Ohio. He was the only son of William Thomas Sr., a janitor at the Wilton Apartment Building in Hollywood, California. He was picked out of several kids to fill in the role of Stymie Beard who was leaving Our Gang as he neared his teenage years.
He started his acting career as a child star in the popular comedy series Our Gang, also known as The Little Rascals. He played the role of Buckwheat, a lovable and mischievous kid who often uttered the catchphrase “O-tay!” He appeared in 93 installments of the series from 1934 to 1944.
After leaving Our Gang, he pursued a successful post-Rascals career as a film laboratory technician. He worked for Technicolor and MGM Studios for over 20 years. He also served in the Army during the Korean War.
He returned to acting in the late 1970s and appeared on Broadway in musicals such as Godspell, Your Arms Are Too Short to Box with God, and La Cage aux Folles. He also had guest roles in various TV shows such as Frank’s Place, Cop Rock, Family Matters, The West Wing, and Gilmore Girls.
Death and Legacy
William Thomas Jr. died on November 14, 2020, in Burbank, California. The cause of his death was not disclosed by his family or representatives. However, some sources speculated that he might have suffered from a heart attack or a stroke.
He was survived by his wife, Gloria Thomas, whom he married in 1971, and his two daughters, Angela and Monica. He also had a sister, Janice Thomas Parks.
He was remembered by his fans and colleagues as a talented and kind-hearted actor who brought joy and laughter to many people. His former co-star Tim Reid said that he was “a wonderful human being” and “a great friend” who “always had a smile on his face”. His former co-star Daphne Maxwell Reid said that he was “a gentle soul” and “a lovely man” who “always had something positive to say”.
He was also honored by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in their In Memoriam segment at the 93rd Oscars ceremony on April 25, 2021.
William Thomas Jr. was a beloved actor who left behind a legacy of laughter and entertainment. He will be missed by many people who grew up watching him on screen or worked with him on stage.
