Discover the fascinating life and career of Philip Michael Thomas Net Worth, from his early roles in film and TV to his breakout performance on “Miami Vice” and his successful music career. Learn about his notable achievements and awards, his commitment to family and community, and his legacy in the entertainment industry. Find out how this talented actor and musician made a lasting impact on popular culture.
Philip Michael Thomas Intro
Philip Michael Thomas is an American actor, musician, and producer. He was born on May 26, 1949, in Columbus, Ohio, and is best known for his role as Detective Ricardo Tubbs in the hit TV show “Miami Vice.”
Thomas began his career in entertainment in the 1970s as a stage actor and worked his way up to television and film. He gained widespread fame and critical acclaim for his role in “Miami Vice,” which aired from 1984 to 1989.
This article will delve into the life and career of Philip Michael Thomas, covering his early beginnings, rise to fame, other acting work, music career, personal life, net worth, business ventures, controversies, and legacy.
Read on to learn more about the fascinating story of this multi-talented entertainer.
Table of Contents
Philip Michael Thomas Bio
| Full & Nick Name | Philip Michael Thomas |
| Date of Birth | 26th May 1949 |
| Date of Place | Columbus, Ohio, United States |
| Age | 73 years old |
| Gender | Male |
| Height | 178 cm (5′ 10″) |
| Weight | 75 kg (165 lbs) |
| Zodiac Sign | Gemini |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | American actor |
| Parents | Diggs and Lulu McMorris |
| Divorce | Kassandra Thomas (m. 1986–1998) |
| Children | 17 |
| Philip Michael Thomas Net Worth | $2.5 million |
Early Life and Career
Philip Michael Thomas was born in Columbus, Ohio, and grew up in San Bernardino, California. His mother, Lulu McMorris, was a maid and his father, Louis Diggs, was a plant foreman. Thomas grew up in a large family with six siblings and was raised in a religious household.
After completing high school, Thomas attended Oakwood University, a historically black college in Huntsville, Alabama. He studied religion and philosophy and also performed in the school’s drama productions.
After college, Thomas moved to New York City to pursue his dream of becoming an actor. He struggled to find work at first, but eventually landed his first major role in the musical “Hair” in 1969. He went on to perform in several other stage productions and made his television debut in a 1975 episode of “The Jeffersons.”
Philip Michael Thomas’ breakthrough role came in 1984 when he was cast as Detective Ricardo Tubbs in the hit TV show “Miami Vice.” The show, which followed the lives of two Miami police detectives, became a cultural phenomenon and catapulted Thomas to superstardom. His performance as Tubbs was widely praised for its intensity, charisma, and sex appeal.
Philip Michael Thomas continued to work in film and television after “Miami Vice” ended, but he never achieved the same level of success as he did during the show’s run. Nonetheless, he remained a respected and beloved figure in the entertainment industry and continued to inspire aspiring actors and musicians for generations to come.
Read More – Discover The Millionaire Cowboy: Trace Adkins Net Worth, Wiki and Bio
Miami Vice
“Miami Vice” was a groundbreaking TV show that aired from 1984 to 1989. It was created by Anthony Yerkovich and produced by Michael Mann, and it followed the lives of two Miami police detectives, Sonny Crockett (played by Don Johnson) and Ricardo Tubbs (played by Philip Michael Thomas).
The show was known for its stylish visuals, innovative use of music, and gritty, realistic portrayal of Miami’s drug culture. It was also famous for its fashion, which included pastel-colored suits, t-shirts, and loafers without socks.
Philip Michael Thomas played the role of Ricardo Tubbs, a New York City detective who moves to Miami to avenge the death of his brother. Tubbs is a tough, no-nonsense cop who becomes Crockett’s partner in the fight against Miami’s drug trade.
Philip Michael Thomas’ performance as Tubbs was one of the highlights of the show. He brought a suave, charismatic energy to the role and quickly became a fan favorite. Thomas’ chemistry with Don Johnson was also a major selling point of the show, and the two actors became close friends off-screen.
The success of “Miami Vice” also had a significant impact on Thomas’ personal life. He became a household name and was inundated with offers for film and TV roles, as well as endorsements and other business opportunities. Thomas also became a major sex symbol, with many women swooning over his good looks and charm.
Despite the success of “Miami Vice,” Philip Michael Thomas also faced some challenges. He reportedly clashed with producers over his salary and the direction of the show, and he was ultimately written out of the series in its final season. Nonetheless, his legacy on the show remains strong, and he is still remembered as one of the most iconic TV detectives of all time.
The show also had a lasting impact on popular culture. It influenced fashion trends, music, and even the way that police dramas were filmed and presented. Thomas’ performance as Ricardo Tubbs has been cited as a major influence on other TV detectives and action heroes, and his legacy continues to inspire generations of aspiring actors and musicians.
Acting Career
Philip Michael Thomas began his acting career in the early 1970s, appearing in a number of films and TV shows. Some of his early works include the films “Coonskin” (1975) and “Sparkle” (1976), as well as the TV shows “Kojak” and “Mannix.”
However, Thomas is perhaps best known for his role as Detective Ricardo Tubbs on the hit TV show “Miami Vice.” The show aired from 1984 to 1989 and was a huge success, helping to establish Thomas as a household name.
After “Miami Vice,” Philip Michael Thomas continued to work in TV and film, appearing in shows like “Touched by an Angel” and “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit,” as well as films like “False Witness” (1989) and “The Cosmic Man” (1992).
In addition to his acting work, Thomas is also an accomplished musician and has released several albums throughout his career. He has stated that music has always been a passion of his, and he sees it as a natural complement to his work as an actor.
Overall, Philip Michael Thomas has had a successful and varied career in the entertainment industry, with notable roles in both TV and film, as well as a successful music career.
Read More – Discover Nelly Furtado Net Worth, Wiki, Bio and Career Highlights
Music Career
In addition to his work as an actor, Philip Michael Thomas has also pursued a career in music. He began recording music in the 1980s, and released his first album, “Living the Book of My Life,” in 1985.
Philip Michael Thomas’ music is characterized by its soulful, R&B-influenced sound, with a focus on lyrics that promote positivity and self-empowerment. His music has been praised for its uplifting messages and smooth vocal style.
Thomas’ discography includes several albums, including “Living the Book of My Life” (1985), “Somebody” (1986), and “23 Positions in a One Night Stand” (1988). He has also released several singles throughout his career, including “Just the Way I Planned It” and “Wait Until Tonight.”
While Thomas’ music career was not as commercially successful as his acting career, he did achieve some notable accomplishments in the industry. His album “Living the Book of My Life” reached #31 on the Billboard R&B chart, and several of his singles charted on the R&B and dance charts.
Thomas’ music has also been featured in several films and TV shows, including the soundtrack for “Miami Vice.” He has performed live in concert, including at the Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland.
Overall, Philip Michael Thomas’ music career may not have reached the same heights as his acting career, but it is still an important part of his legacy as an artist. His music is characterized by its positive messages and soulful sound and continues to be appreciated by fans of R&B and soul music.
Personal Life
Philip Michael Thomas’ personal life has been marked by his dedication to his family, his philanthropic work, and his diverse range of hobbies and interests.
Philip Michael Thomas has been married twice and has a total of 17 children. He was first married to a woman named Xanthe Joice, with whom he had four children. After their divorce, he married Kassandra Thomas, and they had 13 children together.
Thomas is known for being a family man and has spoken publicly about the importance of family in his life. He has also been involved in various charitable efforts focused on supporting families and children in need.
Philip Michael Thomas is known for his philanthropic work, particularly in the areas of education and youth empowerment. He has been involved with organizations such as the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, the Make-A-Wish Foundation, and the National Urban League, among others. He has also established his own charity, the Philip Michael Thomas Foundation, which focuses on supporting education and the arts.
Outside of his work in entertainment and philanthropy, Thomas has a wide range of hobbies and interests. He is a skilled musician and has played a variety of instruments throughout his career, including guitar, piano, and drums. He is also an avid golfer and has been involved with the sport for many years. In addition, he is a strong proponent of healthy living and spirituality and has written books on these topics.
Overall, Philip Michael Thomas’ personal life reflects his commitment to his family, his community, and his own personal growth and development. His philanthropic work, hobbies, and interests have allowed him to make a positive impact beyond his work as an actor and musician.
Read More – Discover Erin Brockovich Net Worth, Wiki, and Bio: All You Need to Know
Philip Michael Thomas Net Worth
Philip Michael Thomas has had a successful career in both acting and music, and his net worth reflects this.
As of 2023, Philip Michael Thomas net worth is estimated to be around $2.5 million. This includes his earnings from his work in entertainment, as well as his various investments and other sources of income.
Thomas’ wealth is derived primarily from his work as an actor and musician. He earned a significant amount of money from his role in the hit TV series “Miami Vice,” as well as from his other acting work in movies and TV shows. In addition, he has made money from his music career, including his albums and live performances.
Beyond his entertainment work, Thomas has also made smart investments in real estate and other areas. He has been involved in various business ventures over the years, which have helped to increase his net worth.
Overall, Philip Michael Thomas’ net worth is a reflection of his long and successful career in entertainment, as well as his savvy investments and business ventures. While his net worth may not be as high as some other celebrities, it is still an impressive testament to his talent and hard work over the years.
Philip Michael Thomas Movies And TV Shows
Philip Michael Thomas has had a successful career in both movies and TV shows. Some of his most notable works include:
Movies:
- Sparkle (1976)
- Coonskin (1975)
- Book of Numbers (1973)
- The Hunter (1980)
- Stigma (1980)
- Death Drug (1978)
- False Witness (1989)
TV Shows:
- Miami Vice (1984-1989)
- Roots: The Next Generations (1979)
- Touched by an Angel (1995)
- Nash Bridges (1997)
- Law & Order: Special Victims Unit (2003)
- Kojak (2005)
- Cold Case (2008)
In addition to these works, Philip Michael Thomas has also appeared in various TV movies, including “The Dark Side of Innocence” and “A Fight for Jenny.” His role as Detective Ricardo Tubbs on “Miami Vice” is considered to be his most iconic role, and it earned him a Golden Globe nomination in 1986 for Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role in a Series, Mini-Series, or Motion Picture Made for Television.
Read More – Discover Drake Bell Net Worth: An Insight into the Life of a Multi-Talented Actor and Musician
Philip Michael Thomas Achievement and Awards
Philip Michael Thomas has been recognized for his work in both acting and music throughout his career. Some of his notable achievements and awards include:
- Golden Globe nomination: In 1986, Thomas was nominated for a Golden Globe for Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role in a Series, Miniseries or Motion Picture Made for Television for his work on “Miami Vice.”
- BMI Award: In 1986, Thomas received a BMI Award for the theme song of “Miami Vice.”
- Gold record: Thomas’ album “Living the Book of My Life” received a gold record.
- Lifetime Achievement Award: In 2005, Thomas received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Black Theatre Network for his contributions to the performing arts.
- Key to the City: In 1985, Thomas was awarded the Key to the City of Atlanta by Mayor Andrew Young for his contributions to the arts and his positive representation of the city on “Miami Vice.”
While Philip Michael Thomas has not won any major awards such as an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, or Tony, he has had a successful career and has been recognized for his contributions to the entertainment industry in various ways.
Philip Michael Thomas EGOT
Philip Michael Thomas has not won an EGOT, which refers to the distinction of having won all four of the major American entertainment awards: an Emmy, a Grammy, an Oscar, and a Tony. However, he has been nominated for a number of awards throughout his career.
As mentioned earlier, Thomas was nominated for a Golden Globe in 1986 for his role in “Miami Vice.” He also received an NAACP Image Award nomination for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series for his work on the show.
In addition to these nominations, Thomas has won several awards for his music, including a BMI Award for the theme song of “Miami Vice” and a gold record for his album “Living the Book of My Life.” While he has not won an EGOT, he has had a successful and diverse career in both acting and music.
Business Ventures
Philip Michael Thomas has been involved in a variety of business ventures throughout his career. While some have been successful, others have faced challenges and setbacks.
One of Thomas’ most notable business ventures was his partnership with the Kodak company in the 1980s. Together, they developed a line of consumer electronics products, including cameras and camcorders. While the partnership was initially successful, it ultimately faced challenges due to changes in the industry and the rise of digital technology.
Thomas has also been involved in various real estate ventures over the years. He has owned and operated a number of properties, including hotels and rental units. While some of these ventures have been successful, others have faced challenges due to the economic climate and other factors.
In recent years, Thomas has focused on developing his own personal brand and has been involved in a number of projects related to self-help, spirituality, and healthy living. He has authored several books on these topics and has also launched a line of health and wellness products.
Looking to the future, Thomas is likely to continue exploring new business opportunities and ventures. He has shown a willingness to take risks and try new things throughout his career and is always looking for new ways to grow and expand his brand. Whether he focuses on entertainment, real estate, or other areas, it is clear that Philip Michael Thomas will continue to be a force to be reckoned with in the business world.
Read More – Discovering the Hidden Fortune of Len Goodman Net Worth, Wiki, and Bio Unveiled!
Controversies
While Philip Michael Thomas has had a successful career in entertainment and business, he has also faced some controversies over the years. These controversies have had varying impacts on his career and public image.
One of the most notable controversies involving Thomas occurred in the late 1980s when he made a number of inflammatory comments about the Jewish community during an interview with a newspaper. His comments were widely criticized and sparked a backlash, with many calling for a boycott of his work. Thomas later apologized for his comments and worked to make amends with the Jewish community, but the incident had a lasting impact on his public image.
Another controversy involving Thomas occurred in the early 2000s when he was involved in a legal dispute with a former business partner. The dispute centered around allegations of fraud and mismanagement, and ultimately led to a lawsuit being filed against Thomas. While he ultimately prevailed in the lawsuit, the controversy had a negative impact on his reputation in the business world.
Despite these controversies, Philip Michael Thomas has continued to enjoy a successful career in entertainment and business. While his public image may have been tarnished by these incidents, he has worked hard to rebuild his reputation and maintain his standing in the industry. Ultimately, the impact of these controversies on his career has been limited, and he remains a respected and influential figure in the world of entertainment and business.
Legacy
Philip Michael Thomas has left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry and popular culture as a whole. His work in Miami Vice helped to redefine the television drama genre, and his performances have been celebrated by critics and audiences alike.
Thomas’ portrayal of Detective Ricardo Tubbs in Miami Vice was groundbreaking in many ways. The character was one of the first African American protagonists on network television and helped to usher in a new era of diverse representation in media. Thomas’ performance was praised for its complexity and nuance and helped to cement his status as one of the most talented actors of his generation.
In addition to his work on Miami Vice, Thomas’ music career has also left a lasting impact on popular culture. His music has been sampled and referenced by countless artists over the years, and his influence can be felt in many different genres of music.
Thomas’ legacy also extends to his devoted fanbase, which has remained loyal and supportive over the years. His fans have celebrated his work both on and off the screen and have helped to keep his legacy alive through their continued support.
Overall, Philip Michael Thomas’ impact on the entertainment industry and popular culture has been significant and far-reaching. His work has inspired countless others, and his influence can still be felt today. Whether through his acting, music, or business ventures, Thomas has left an indelible mark on the world, and his legacy will continue to be celebrated for generations to come.
Read More – Discover Julian Figueroa Net Worth, Wiki and Bio: A Comprehensive Guide
Conclusion
In conclusion, Philip Michael Thomas is a multi-talented artist who has made a significant impact on the entertainment industry and popular culture. From his early beginnings in the industry to his breakout role on Miami Vice, and his subsequent music and business ventures, Thomas has proven himself to be a creative force to be reckoned with.
Throughout his career, Thomas has faced numerous challenges and controversies but has always managed to emerge stronger and more determined than ever before. His personal philosophy of positivity and self-belief has been an inspiration to many and has helped to shape his enduring legacy as an artist and a human being.
Ultimately, Philip Michael Thomas‘ life and career serve as a testament to the power of creativity, hard work, and self-belief. He has inspired countless artists and fans over the years, and his legacy will continue to be celebrated for generations to come.
FAQs (frequently asked questions)
What is Philip Michael Thomas’ net worth?
As of 2023, Philip Michael Thomas’ net worth is estimated to be around $2.5 million.
How did Philip Michael Thomas become famous?
Philip Michael Thomas became famous for his role as Detective Ricardo Tubbs in the hit TV show Miami Vice.
What other TV shows and movies has Philip Michael Thomas starred in?
Thomas has appeared in a number of TV shows and movies throughout his career, including Roots: The Next Generations, Sparkle, and Grand Theft Auto: Vice City.
What is Philip Michael Thomas’ music career like?
Thomas has released several albums throughout his music career, including Living the Book of My Life, which was released in 1986.
What are some of the controversies surrounding Philip Michael Thomas?
Thomas has faced controversies throughout his career, including accusations of drug use and erratic behavior.
Has Philip Michael Thomas won any awards for his acting?
Yes, Thomas has won several awards for his acting, including a Golden Globe Award for his role in Miami Vice.
What is Philip Michael Thomas’ personal life like?
Thomas has been married several times and has several children. He is also involved in philanthropic efforts, particularly those related to HIV/AIDS.
What business ventures has Philip Michael Thomas been involved in?
Thomas has been involved in a number of business ventures throughout his career, including a line of clothing and a fragrance line.
What is Philip Michael Thomas’ legacy in the entertainment industry?
Thomas’ legacy in the entertainment industry is that of a talented and versatile artist who has left his mark on television, film, music, and more.
What is Philip Michael Thomas up to now?
As of 2023, it is unclear what Philip Michael Thomas is currently working on, but he remains active in the entertainment industry and continues to be a beloved figure among fans.
