C. Thomas Howell has had a long and varied career in Hollywood, starting as a young actor and transitioning through multiple phases of film and television work, as well as behind-the-scenes roles as a director. Over the years, his career has led to a net worth of around $4 million in 2024. This article will break down how he accumulated his wealth, the milestones in his career, and how he has kept his place in the entertainment world, from the highs of his 1980s breakthrough to his ongoing contributions to film and television.

C. Thomas Howell Net Worth

As of 2024,c. thomas howell net worth is estimated to be around $4 million. This wealth has accumulated over decades of work in Hollywood, where he began his career as a child actor and transitioned into a well-rounded performer and director. Howell’s early breakout came with his role in E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982), which launched him into the public eye. 

He solidified his status as a leading actor with films like The Outsiders (1983), Red Dawn (1984), and Soul Man (1986), making him a key member of the 1980s “Brat Pack.” While the 1990s saw a shift towards direct-to-video films, these roles still contributed to his income and kept him active in the industry. 

In the 2000s, Howell experienced a resurgence with appearances in major films such as Hidalgo (2004) and The Amazing Spider-Man (2012), as well as recurring roles on television shows like Southland. In addition to acting, Howell expanded his career by directing films, such as The Land That Time Forgot (2009) and The Day the Earth Stopped (2008), which helped diversify his income streams. 

Beyond his entertainment work, Howell has likely made strategic investments in areas like real estate and technology, which have further contributed to his net worth. His career longevity and smart financial choices have helped maintain his wealth over time, positioning him for future projects and continued success in the industry.

C. Thomas Howell Biography 

C. Thomas Howell is an American actor, director, and producer, best known for his roles in iconic 1980s films such as The Outsiders (1983), Red Dawn (1984), and Soul Man (1986). Born on December 7, 1966, in Van Nuys, California, Howell was introduced to the entertainment world through his father, a stunt coordinator in Hollywood. 

His acting career began at a young age, with a memorable role in E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982), which helped him gain recognition. Throughout the 1980s, Howell was part of the so-called “Brat Pack” — a group of young, talented actors who dominated the era. In the 1990s, while his work shifted to direct-to-video films, Howell remained active in the industry, taking on roles that showcased his versatility. 

His career experienced a resurgence in the 2000s, with appearances in films like Hidalgo (2004) and The Amazing Spider-Man (2012), as well as television roles in shows like Southland and Criminal Minds. Howell has also directed films such as The Land That Time Forgot (2009) and The Day the Earth Stopped (2008), expanding his career beyond acting. With a long and diverse career, Howell has built a lasting legacy in Hollywood and continues to work both in front of and behind the camera.

C. Thomas Howell Age & Height

C. Thomas Howell, born on December 7, 1966, is currently 57 years old in 2024. He gained recognition early in his career as a child actor, with one of his first significant roles being in E.T. 

The Extra-Terrestrial (1982). Over the years, he built a successful career in both film and television, particularly in the 1980s and 2000s. His height is 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm), which is considered average for a male in the United States. This height has contributed to his presence on screen, where he played a variety of roles, from sensitive characters in teen dramas like The Outsiders to more rugged roles in action films like Red Dawn.

C. Thomas Howell Early Life & Family

  

C. Thomas Howell was born on December 7, 1966, in Van Nuys, California, to Christopher and Candice Howell. His father worked as a stunt coordinator, which exposed Howell to the world of Hollywood from a young age. Growing up in Los Angeles, he developed a passion for acting early on, likely influenced by his family’s connections to the film industry. Howell was raised in a supportive environment where creativity and the arts were valued. He was the youngest of three siblings, and his family was relatively private, away from the media spotlight.

His breakthrough into acting came when he was still a child. At the age of 15, Howell was cast in E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982), a role that brought him instant recognition. His early experiences in the entertainment industry set the stage for his successful career in Hollywood. Over time, his father’s background in the film industry and his early exposure to acting allowed him to navigate the complexities of show business and land roles in some of the biggest films of the 1980s.

Early Career Highlights

Born in Van Nuys, Los Angeles, C. Thomas Howell’s early connection to Hollywood was shaped by his father, who was a stunt coordinator in the film industry. While his dad’s work involved physical feats on screen, Howell’s early career took a different route: acting. His big break came when he was just a young teenager, landing a role in E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982), directed by Steven Spielberg. While his role wasn’t as prominent as that of the film’s main characters, his appearance in this beloved science-fiction classic put him on the map, introducing him to a broader audience.

E.T. was a massive success and served as a springboard for Howell’s early career. This role allowed him to begin securing more substantial opportunities in Hollywood, establishing him as a fresh young talent. However, it wasn’t until the 1980s that Howell’s career truly exploded, solidifying his place in Hollywood.

Breakthrough in the 1980s

The 1980s were an essential period for C. Thomas Howell, as he starred in several key films that earned him a reputation as a leading actor of the decade.

The Outsiders (1983) was one of his most significant roles, in which he portrayed Ponyboy Curtis, a sensitive member of a gang called the Greasers. The film was directed by the legendary Francis Ford Coppola and featured a stellar cast of young actors, including Patrick Swayze, Matt Dillon, and Ralph Macchio. Based on the iconic novel by S.E. Hinton, The Outsiders resonated deeply with teenagers, cementing Howell’s popularity and making him one of the faces of the “Brat Pack,” a group of young stars who dominated the 1980s.

The following year, Howell starred in another action-packed film, Red Dawn (1984), which revolved around a group of teenagers defending their town from a Soviet invasion. This action film allowed Howell to show his versatility, as he played a role that was far more physically demanding and intense than his part in The Outsiders.

In 1986, Howell took on another controversial role in Soul Man, where he portrayed a white student who pretends to be African American in order to receive a scholarship. While the film sparked discussions around racial stereotypes, it undoubtedly kept Howell in the public eye, and his willingness to take on challenging roles only added to his growing stature in Hollywood.

These films helped solidify his place in the industry and contributed greatly to the $4 million net worth he would accumulate over the years. During this period, C. Thomas Howell was riding high on the wave of fame, building a career that seemed destined for long-term success.

The 1990s: A Shift in Focus

By the 1990s, the landscape of Hollywood had changed, and so had Howell’s career trajectory. While he was still active in films, many of his roles were in direct-to-video productions. These films, which bypassed traditional theatrical releases and went straight to video or later to streaming platforms, may not have received the same level of attention as his 1980s hits, but they were important for Howell in maintaining his presence in Hollywood.

Although the films of this era were not as widely seen as his previous works, they still allowed Howell to continue working as an actor, particularly in genres like action films, thrillers, and horror. The 1990s also marked a period where Howell took on more leading roles in these films, allowing him to gain financial stability and experience as a headliner.

During this time, Howell’s versatility in different genres helped him develop a diverse career. Even though these films didn’t make as big an impact as The Outsiders or Red Dawn, they still played a crucial role in maintaining Howell’s reputation in Hollywood, and provided him with a steady income stream. These roles were not flashy, but they kept Howell’s name relevant in the business, slowly adding to his career earnings.

Resurgence in the 2000s

As the new millennium began, C. Thomas Howell experienced a resurgence in his career. With the rise of new media and changes in the film industry, Howell found opportunities in both larger films and television.

In 2004, Howell made a significant return to the big screen in Hidalgo, a Western adventure film starring Viggo Mortensen. Although Howell had a supporting role, the film was a commercial success, reminding audiences of his presence in Hollywood. It also contributed to his net worth by putting him back in the spotlight.

Later, in 2012, Howell appeared in The Amazing Spider-Man, a high-profile superhero movie. While his role as Jack wasn’t as significant as some of the other characters, being part of such a popular franchise was a boost to his career. Appearing in a major blockbuster like this added more recognition and was another step in his ongoing journey as an actor.

Television also played a significant role in Howell’s resurgence. He had notable appearances in a number of successful TV shows, including the police drama Southland, where he portrayed Officer Dewey Dudek. His character in Southland was memorable and helped introduce him to a new generation of viewers. The show had a significant fanbase and was critically acclaimed, giving Howell another steady source of income.

He also appeared in guest roles on series like Criminal Minds, where he took on the role of a villain. Playing against type in a role that required him to be the antagonist gave Howell the opportunity to display his acting range.

Directorial Ventures

While C. Thomas Howell’s career is most closely associated with his acting, he has also dabbled in directing. In fact, some of his most recent work has been behind the camera. As an actor, Howell has often expressed an interest in exploring other areas of the filmmaking process, and this passion led him to direct several films.

The Land That Time Forgot (2009) and The Day the Earth Stopped (2008) are two of the films where Howell stepped into the director’s chair. Both are science-fiction movies, showcasing Howell’s ability to handle different genres. In these films, he not only directed but also acted in key roles, further adding to his earnings. Directing is a challenging and rewarding job that allows an artist to take a more significant role in the production of a film. For Howell, directing these films also provided another potential revenue stream in addition to his acting roles.

By expanding his skills to include directing, Howell increased his earning potential. If a film does well, a director typically earns a larger percentage of the profits, not to mention the opportunities that come from directing other projects.

Strategic Investments

In addition to his work as an actor and director, C. Thomas Howell has made some smart financial decisions to secure his wealth for the long term. Many successful celebrities invest their earnings in various ventures, and Howell is no exception.

Real estate is one of the most common investment areas for those in the entertainment industry, as properties tend to appreciate over time. Howell may have used some of his earnings to buy and sell homes or invest in real estate projects, which could yield significant returns.

Tech startups also attract many investors, including Hollywood celebrities. These investments can provide substantial returns if the company becomes successful. While there’s no official confirmation of Howell’s specific investments, it’s possible that he has placed money in growing tech companies, which is a smart move for someone looking to diversify their wealth.

Legacy & Future Prospects

C. Thomas Howell’s career has spanned decades and evolved with the changing landscape of Hollywood. From his iconic role in E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial to his work in The Outsiders and other 1980s hits, Howell became a household name in Hollywood. His steady work in the 1990s, despite the decline in his mainstream visibility, showed his resilience in the industry. The 2000s brought about a resurgence, with bigger roles in films like Hidalgo and The Amazing Spider-Man, as well as successful TV roles.

His work as a director has further expanded his career and wealth, while his smart investments suggest he is taking measures to ensure his financial stability in the long term.

With a net worth of $4 million in 2024, C. Thomas Howell is far from done in the entertainment industry. His legacy is solidified, but his future prospects remain bright. For fans of his work, there’s always something new to look forward to, and perhaps even more exciting projects ahead. Howell’s story shows that success in Hollywood isn’t about one big break, but about sustained effort, versatility, and making the right choices along the way.

Summary

C. Thomas Howell is an American actor, director, and producer, best known for his roles in iconic 1980s films such as The Outsiders (1983), Red Dawn (1984), and Soul Man (1986). Born on December 7, 1966, in Van Nuys, California, Howell grew up in a family involved in Hollywood, with his father working as a stunt coordinator. This early exposure to the entertainment industry led Howell to pursue acting at a young age.

He gained early recognition as a child actor with his role in E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982). However, it was his participation in the popular teen drama The Outsiders that made him a household name. Throughout the 1980s, Howell was part of the “Brat Pack,” a group of young actors known for their roles in coming-of-age films. Despite the shift in his career during the 1990s, when many of his roles moved to direct-to-video films, Howell’s career saw a resurgence in the 2000s with notable film roles like Hidalgo (2004) and The Amazing Spider-Man (2012). He also took on television roles, such as in the hit police drama Southland, which introduced him to a new generation of viewers.

In addition to acting, Howell has expanded his career by directing and producing films, including The Land That Time Forgot (2009) and The Day the Earth Stopped (2008). His career longevity, diverse roles, and behind-the-camera work have helped him maintain a lasting presence in Hollywood.

FAQs

1. How old is C. Thomas Howell?

C. Thomas Howell was born on December 7, 1966, making him 57 years old as of 2024.

2. What is C. Thomas Howell’s height?

C. Thomas Howell stands at approximately 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm) tall.

3. What is C. Thomas Howell’s net worth?

As of 2024, C. Thomas Howell’s net worth is estimated to be around $4 million. This wealth has been accumulated through his acting, directing, and producing work, as well as strategic investments in areas such as real estate and technology.

4. What was C. Thomas Howell’s big break?

Howell’s big break came with his role in E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982), where he played a supporting role that led to further recognition. However, his breakthrough as a leading actor came with The Outsiders (1983), where he played Ponyboy Curtis, a role that made him a star.

5. Is C. Thomas Howell part of the Brat Pack?

Yes, C. Thomas Howell is often associated with the “Brat Pack,” a group of young actors who were popular in the 1980s, including Emilio Estevez, Rob Lowe, Patrick Swayze, and others. The group was known for their roles in coming-of-age movies and teen dramas.

6. What other notable films has C. Thomas Howell been in?

Aside from The Outsiders, Howell starred in several popular films, including Red Dawn (1984), Soul Man (1986), and The Hitcher (1986). He also appeared in Hidalgo (2004), The Amazing Spider-Man (2012), and had memorable TV roles in Southland (2009-2011) and Criminal Minds (2007-2008).

7. Has C. Thomas Howell directed any films?

Yes, Howell has ventured into directing. Some of his directorial works include The Land That Time Forgot (2009) and The Day the Earth Stopped (2008). These are sci-fi films in which he also acted, showcasing his talents both in front of and behind the camera.

8. What are some of C. Thomas Howell’s most recent projects?

In recent years, Howell has continued acting and has appeared in television series and films. His involvement in projects such as Southland and his role in The Amazing Spider-Man helped him maintain his relevance in the entertainment industry. As of 2024, he is likely to continue pursuing both acting and directing roles.

9. Does C. Thomas Howell have a family?

Yes, C. Thomas Howell is married to Sylvie Anderson, and they have children together. Howell keeps his family life relatively private, but he is known to be a family man, balancing his career with his personal life.

10. What was C. Thomas Howell’s role in The Outsiders?

In The Outsiders, Howell played Ponyboy Curtis, the sensitive and idealistic protagonist who navigates life as a member of the “Greasers,” a working-class gang. The film, directed by Francis Ford Coppola and based on S.E. Hinton’s novel, is a key part of his early career and helped solidify his status as a prominent actor in the 1980s.

11. How has C. Thomas Howell’s career evolved over time?

Howell’s career has evolved significantly over the years. After achieving fame in the 1980s, he faced a shift toward direct-to-video films in the 1990s but successfully transitioned to TV roles and films in the 2000s. Additionally, he expanded his skillset by directing and producing films. His ability to adapt to changes in the industry has contributed to his enduring presence in Hollywood.

12. What are some of C. Thomas Howell’s most memorable TV roles?

C. Thomas Howell had notable roles in TV shows like Southland (where he played Officer Dewey Dudek), Criminal Minds (as a guest villain), and he also appeared in Stargate SG-1 and The Wonder Years. These roles showcased his versatility as an actor, taking on both sympathetic and antagonistic characters.

13. What are some of C. Thomas Howell’s investments?

While Howell has not publicly disclosed all of his investments, like many successful actors, he likely has investments in real estate and potentially in technology companies. These kinds of investments are often used by actors to generate wealth beyond their acting careers.

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