Heather Thomas Biography
Heather Thomas, born on September 8, 1957, in Greenwich, Connecticut, is an American actress, author, and political activist.
She gained prominence for her role as Jody Banks in the television series “The Fall Guy,” which aired from 1981 to 1986.
Thomas began her acting career while attending UCLA’s School of Theater, Film, and Television.
Following her success in “The Fall Guy,” she appeared in various films, including “Zapped!” (1982) and “Cyclone” (1987).
In the 1990s, Thomas faced numerous incidents involving stalkers, which significantly impacted her life and career.
She received death threats, had to obtain multiple restraining orders, and even resorted to hiring bodyguards to protect herself and her family.
In one alarming incident, she had to defend herself by shooting a stalker who attempted to break into her home.
These distressing experiences, coupled with the desire to prioritize her family’s safety, led Thomas to step away from acting in 1998.
Transitioning from acting, Thomas pursued a career in writing. She authored the novel “Trophies,” published in April 2008, and became an active political activist, co-founding the “Regime Change Cafe,” a salon that connected politicians and activists.
In her personal life, Thomas married entertainment attorney Harry M. Brittenham in 1992, and they have a daughter together.
After a long hiatus, Thomas made a cameo appearance in the 2024 film adaptation of “The Fall Guy,” marking a brief return to the screen.
Throughout her multifaceted career, Heather Thomas has demonstrated resilience and adaptability, transitioning from on-screen performances to literary and political endeavors, all while navigating personal challenges.
Heather Thomas Wikipedia
- Full Name: Heather Anne Thomas
- Date of Birth: September 8, 1957
- Age: 67 years old (as of 2025)
- Place of Birth: Greenwich, Connecticut, USA
- Nationality: American
- Education: UCLA’s School of Theater, Film, and Television
- Occupation: Actress, Author, Screenwriter, Activist
- Years Active: 1978–1998 (Acting), Later as a writer & activist
- Famous Role: Jody Banks in The Fall Guy (1981–1986)
- Spouse:
- Allen Rosenthal (m. 1985, div.)
- Harry Brittenham (m. 1992 – present)
- Children: 1 (India Rose Brittenham)
- Notable Works: The Fall Guy, Zapped!, Cyclone, Trophies (novel)
- Activism: Women’s rights, political engagement, environmental issues
- Net Worth: Estimated $2 million
- Social Media: Instagram, Bluesky
- Fun Fact: Turned down Playboy magazine multiple times despite being a popular 1980s pin-up icon.
Heather Thomas’s Early Life
Heather Thomas was born on September 8, 1957, in Greenwich, Connecticut, USA.
She developed an interest in acting at a young age and pursued her passion while attending UCLA’s School of Theater, Film, and Television.
During her time at UCLA, she gained early experience in the entertainment industry by working as a co-host on the teen-oriented talk show “Talking with a Giant” in 1978.
Her early exposure to television and film helped shape her career, leading her to land roles in various TV shows and movies, ultimately gaining fame for her role as Jody Banks in The Fall Guy (1981-1986).
Heather Thomas Career
Heather Thomas began her career in entertainment while studying at UCLA’s School of Theater, Film, and Television.
She got her first break in 1978 as a co-host of the NBC series “Talking with a Giant”, a teen-oriented talk show.
Breakthrough Role in “The Fall Guy” (1981-1986):
Her breakthrough came in 1981 when she was cast as Jody Banks in the hit action-adventure TV series The Fall Guy, starring alongside Lee Majors.
The show, which ran until 1986, was about a Hollywood stuntman who worked as a bounty hunter.
Heather’s role as the daring and glamorous Jody Banks made her a fan favorite and a pop culture icon of the 1980s.
Other Acting Roles:
During and after The Fall Guy, Thomas appeared in several films and TV shows, including Zapped! (1982): A teen comedy starring Scott Baio., Cyclone (1987): A sci-fi/action film where she played a lead role, Red Blooded American Girl (1990): A horror-thriller, and Hidden Obsession (1993): A crime thriller.
She also made guest appearances in TV shows and became known for her glamorous on-screen presence.
Retirement from Acting (1998):
In the 1990s, Thomas started facing issues with stalkers, which made her feel unsafe in Hollywood. She received death threats and had to obtain multiple restraining orders.
One incident even led her to shoot a stalker in self-defense. Due to these traumatic experiences and a desire to focus on her family, she retired from acting in 1998.
Career as an Author and Activist:
After stepping away from Hollywood, Thomas focused on writing and political activism.
In 2008, she published a novel titled “Trophies”, a satirical look at Hollywood and fame.
She became involved in political activism, co-founding “Regime Change Cafe,” a salon where activists and politicians gathered to discuss social and political issues.
Recent Activities:
Though largely retired, Heather Thomas made a cameo appearance in the 2024 film adaptation of The Fall Guy, marking a brief return to the screen.
NOTE: Heather Thomas remains a beloved figure from the 1980s TV era, known for her beauty, charisma, and action-packed performances in The Fall Guy.
Her transition to writing and activism showcases her ability to reinvent herself beyond Hollywood.
Heather Thomas’s Personal Life
Marriage and Family:
Heather Thomas has been married twice.
1. Allen Rosenthal (1985 – Divorced): Her first marriage was to Allen Rosenthal, a businessman, but it ended in divorce.
2. Harry M. Brittenham (1992 – Present): In 1992, she married Harry M. Brittenham, an entertainment attorney. The couple has a daughter, India Rose Brittenham.
Struggles with Stalkers:
During the 1990s, Thomas faced severe stalking incidents, received death threats, and even found disturbing packages in the mail.
She had to obtain multiple restraining orders and even hired bodyguards to protect herself and her family. In one frightening case, she was forced to shoot a stalker who attempted to break into her home.
These terrifying experiences played a major role in her decision to retire from acting in 1998 to prioritize her safety and family.
Life After Hollywood:
After leaving acting, Thomas focused on:
- Writing: She published her novel “Trophies” in 2008.
- Political Activism: She co-founded “Regime Change Cafe,” a forum for political discussions.
- Philanthropy: She became involved in various charitable causes and advocacy work.
Hobbies and Interests:
Heather Thomas enjoys writing, activism, and spending time with her family.
She has remained relatively private since stepping away from Hollywood, occasionally making public appearances for charitable and political causes.
Watch The Video of Heather Thomas: From Child Star to Hollywood Icon | Actors & Actresses Biography Below:
Heather Thomas Activism
After stepping away from Hollywood in the late 1990s, Heather Thomas became actively involved in political activism and philanthropy.
She has used her platform to advocate for social, political, and environmental issues.
Political Engagement
She co-founded the “Regime Change Cafe”, a salon where politicians, activists, and intellectuals gathered to discuss pressing social and political issues.
She has been an outspoken Democratic supporter, attending fundraisers and advocating for progressive policies.
Thomas has contributed to political campaigns and participated in discussions on topics such as human rights, environmental protection, and gender equality.
Philanthropy and Social Causes:
- Women’s Rights: She has been a strong advocate for women’s empowerment and safety, inspired by her own experiences with stalking and harassment.
- Environmental Activism: She has supported organizations focused on climate change and sustainability.
- Children’s Welfare: She has been involved in charitable efforts to help underprivileged children and families.
Even though she stepped away from the entertainment industry, Heather Thomas has remained committed to making a positive impact through her activism, philanthropy, and advocacy work.
Heather Thomas’s Net Worth
Heather Thomas, an American actress, screenwriter, author, and activist, has an estimated net worth of $2 million.
She gained prominence in the 1980s for her role as Jody Banks in the television series “The Fall Guy.”
Beyond acting, Thomas has ventured into screenwriting, authoring, and political activism, contributing to her overall wealth.
Additionally, she and her husband, entertainment attorney Harry “Skip” Brittenham, own significant real estate properties, including a home in Santa Monica purchased in 1987 for $2.9 million, now valued at approximately $10 million, and a 7,000-square-foot mansion on 20 acres in Jackson, Wyoming, built in 2008 and currently worth around $15 million.
Heather Thomas Trivia
1. Early Start in TV: She began her television career in 1978 as a co-host on the teen talk show “Talking with a Giant” while studying at UCLA.
2. Fame from “The Fall Guy”: Her role as Jody Banks in The Fall Guy (1981-1986) made her a 1980s TV icon and a favorite among action-adventure fans.
3. Turned Down Playboy: Thomas was frequently approached by Playboy magazine for photoshoots during her peak fame, but she consistently refused.
4. Struggles with Stalkers: She faced several stalking incidents in the 1990s, leading to restraining orders and even having to shoot a stalker in self-defense.
5. Battled Substance Abuse: During her Hollywood career, she struggled with drug addiction but successfully overcame it after entering rehab in 1985.
6. Author of “Trophies”: In 2008, she published “Trophies”, a novel satirizing Hollywood’s obsession with fame and power.
7. Married to an Entertainment Attorney: She has been married to Harry Brittenham since 1992, and they have one daughter, India Rose Brittenham.
8. Political Activist: She co-founded “Regime Change Cafe”, a political salon where activists and politicians gathered to discuss social and political issues.
9. Wealth from Real Estate: She and her husband own multi-million-dollar properties in Santa Monica and Jackson, Wyoming.
10. Brief Return to Acting: After retiring in 1998, she made a cameo appearance in the 2024 film adaptation of The Fall Guy.
Heather Thomas remains a fascinating figure, transitioning from a Hollywood starlet to an author and activist while overcoming personal struggles along the way
Heather Thomas Quotes
Heather Thomas, known for her role as Jody Banks in the 1980s television series The Fall Guy, has shared various insights and remarks throughout her career. Here are a few notable quotes attributed to her:
On maintaining modesty in her career choices: “I won’t take my clothes off because I can’t believe it’s necessary. You can be sexy with your clothes on just as well as you can by taking off your blouse.”
On resilience and personal growth: “Life is toughest when you’re leveling up. Keep going and don’t get discouraged. The challenges are just signs that you’re growing and getting closer to where you want to be.”
On dealing with challenging individuals: “If he wasn’t such a horrible person, I would call this pathetic.”
On her determination and sense of humor: “I’m never giving up. But I’m also stocking up on tequila.”
On her aversion to phone calls: “I’ve been called a lot of bad things in my life, but nothing compares to being called on the phone.”
These quotes reflect Heather Thomas’s perspectives on professionalism, personal challenges, and her candid sense of humor.
Heather Thomas’s Legacy
Heather Thomas remains a beloved icon of the 1980s, remembered for her acting, resilience, activism, and writing. Her legacy spans multiple fields, making her an influential figure in Hollywood and beyond.
1. Television Icon:
Best known for her role as Jody Banks in The Fall Guy (1981-1986), she became a household name and one of the most recognized female action stars of the era.
Her character broke stereotypes, proving that women could be both strong and glamorous in action-packed roles.
She became a poster icon, with her images selling millions of copies during the 1980s.
2. Resilience and Personal Growth:
Despite the challenges of Hollywood fame, including stalker incidents and substance abuse struggles, she managed to overcome adversity and transition to a new phase of life.
Her decision to leave acting in 1998 for her safety and personal well-being showed courage and prioritization of mental health.
3. Contributions to Literature:
Published “Trophies” in 2008, a novel that provided a satirical take on Hollywood culture, proving her talent beyond acting.
4. Activism and Philanthropy:
Used her platform for social and political activism, co-founding “Regime Change Cafe”, a space for discussions on progressive political change.
Advocated for women’s rights, environmental protection, and children’s welfare, making her impact felt beyond entertainment.
5. Hollywood Influence and Inspiration:
Served as inspiration for future generations of women in television, especially those in action-oriented roles.
Her brief return in the 2024 The Fall Guy movie adaptation was a nostalgic nod to her lasting impact on pop culture.
NOTE: Heather Thomas’s legacy is one of talent, strength, and reinvention. She transitioned from an 80s TV star to a writer, activist, and advocate, proving that personal growth and resilience define true success.
Heather Thomas’s Filmography
Television:
- The Fall Guy (1981–1986): Jody Banks (Main role, 112 episodes)
- Co-Ed Fever (1979): Sandi (6 episodes)
- The Misadventures of Sheriff Lobo (1981): Jill McGraw (Guest role)
- T.J. Hooker (1983): Lisa (Guest role)
- Cover Up (1984): Stacy Collins (Guest role)
- Ford: The Man and the Machine (1987): Evie Ford (TV Movie)
- Swamp Thing (1992): Crown Investigator (Guest role)
- Pointman (1995): Lauren Davis (TV Movie)
Films:
- Zapped! (1982): Jane Mitchell
- Cyclone (1987): Teri Marshall
- Red Blooded American Girl (1990): Paige
- The Naked Truth (1992): Robin
- Hidden Obsession (1993): Joanna Bartlett
- My Giant (1998): Morganna (Final film before retirement)
- The Fall Guy (2024): Cameo Appearance
NOTE: Heather Thomas’s career is best known for her role in The Fall Guy, but she also had a successful run in films and guest TV appearances before retiring from acting in 1998.
Heather Thomas’s social media
- Instagram: @heatherthomasofficialInstagram
FAQs
1. Who is Heather Thomas?
Heather Thomas is an American actress, author, screenwriter, and activist, best known for her role as Jody Banks in the hit 1980s TV series The Fall Guy (1981–1986).
She was a popular television star, and pin-up icon, and later transitioned into writing and activism.
2: What is Heather Thomas best known for?
She is best known for playing Jody Banks in the 1980s action TV series The Fall Guy (1981–1986).
3: When and where was Heather Thomas born?
She was born on September 8, 1957, in Greenwich, Connecticut, USA.
4: Did Heather Thomas pose for Playboy?
No, despite being a popular 1980s pin-up icon, she turned down multiple offers from Playboy magazine.
5: Why did Heather Thomas retire from acting?
She retired in 1998 due to stalking incidents and to focus on her family, writing, and activism.
6: What is Heather Thomas doing now?
She is an author, activist, and political advocate, focusing on women’s rights, environmental causes, and philanthropy.
7: What book did Heather Thomas write?
She wrote the novel “Trophies” (2008), a satirical take on Hollywood’s obsession with fame and power.
8: Who is Heather Thomas married to?
She has been married to Harry M. Brittenham, an entertainment attorney, since 1992.
9: Does Heather Thomas have children?
Yes, she has a daughter named India Rose Brittenham.
10: What is Heather Thomas’s net worth?
Her estimated net worth is $2 million.
11: Has Heather Thomas made a comeback in Hollywood?
She made a cameo appearance in the 2024 film adaptation of The Fall Guy but remains focused on activism and writing.
Conclusion
Heather Thomas is a multifaceted personality who transitioned from a 1980s TV star to an author and activist.
Best known for her role as Jody Banks in The Fall Guy, she gained fame as an action star and pin-up icon.
However, her career took a different turn when she chose to retire from acting in 1998 to focus on writing, family, and activism.
Beyond Hollywood, she made a mark as a political activist and philanthropist, advocating for women’s rights, environmental issues, and social justice.
Her novel Trophies (2008) showcases her literary talent, offering a satirical take on Hollywood culture.
With an estimated net worth of $2 million, Heather Thomas remains an influential figure, remembered for her contributions to entertainment, literature, and activism.
Her journey exemplifies resilience, reinvention, and the power of using one’s platform for a greater cause.
