Ernest Lee Thomas net worth is estimated at $500 thousand. He is an American actor best remembered for his portrayal of Roger “Raj” Thomas on the groundbreaking 1970s sitcom What’s Happening!! and its 1980s sequel What’s Happening Now!!. With his trademark glasses and warm comedic style, Thomas became the centerpiece of one of television’s first shows to spotlight the everyday lives of Black teenagers. His career has spanned decades, from Broadway stages to Hollywood films, with later fame as Mr. Omar on Everybody Hates Chris.
Early Life
Ernest Lee Thomas was born on March 26, 1949, in Gary, Indiana. Raised in a working-class household, he gravitated toward performing at an early age. After high school, he pursued professional acting, landing roles on stage. His Broadway credits include the 1974 revival of Love for Love and the 1975 revival of The Member of the Wedding alongside Glenn Close. These formative experiences sharpened his skills and prepared him for his transition into television.
Acting Career
Thomas began building his screen résumé with appearances on shows such as The Jeffersons, Baretta, and The Brady Bunch Hour. His career changed in 1976 when he was cast as Raj Thomas in What’s Happening!!, a sitcom loosely inspired by the film Cooley High. Playing the thoughtful and good-natured leader of a trio of Los Angeles teens, Thomas starred opposite Haywood Nelson as Dwayne and Fred Berry as Rerun. The series ran until 1979, leaving a lasting cultural impact.
In 1985, Thomas reprised his role in the syndicated follow-up What’s Happening Now!!, where Raj was portrayed as an aspiring writer and businessman. The revival ran for three years, keeping the legacy of the original alive.
Outside of the franchise, Thomas appeared in the landmark miniseries Roots and films such as A Piece of the Action (1977), Malcolm X (1992), Dickie Roberts: Former Child Star (2003), and The Lords of Salem (2012). His television credits expanded with guest roles on Martin, The Steve Harvey Show, Soul Food, and All About the Andersons.
Later Career and Recognition
In the 2000s, Thomas enjoyed a resurgence in popularity with his role as the eccentric funeral director Mr. Omar on the hit sitcom Everybody Hates Chris. The character’s memorable catchphrases and offbeat humor made him a fan favorite and introduced him to a younger generation.
He has remained active in entertainment, frequently attending fan conventions, giving interviews, and participating in What’s Happening!! reunions. These appearances have reinforced his place in sitcom history and kept him connected with loyal audiences.
Personal Life and Legacy
Thomas has lived with amblyopia, a condition affecting his vision, but it never slowed his career. He is a proud member of Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity and has been involved in charitable causes.
As Raj, he helped pioneer authentic Black representation on American television, balancing humor with relatability. Decades later, his contributions to sitcom history remain celebrated, and his legacy continues through his diverse body of work.
