The Canadian Encyclopedia — neutral, cited, updated
July 26, 2026Sources cited
Canadianwire.
Canada’s encyclopedia & explainer
Home›Entertainment›Actor›Henry Thomas
Entertainment • Actor

Henry Thomas

Henry Thomas is an American actor best known for playing Elliott in *E.T.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Henry Thomas is an American actor best known for playing Elliott in *E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial* (1982), a role that brought him early international recognition. He has continued to work in film and television as an adult, with roles in projects such as *The Haunting of Hill House*, *Doctor Sleep*, and *Midnight Mass*.

Early life and breakthrough

Henry Thomas was born in San Antonio, Texas, in 1971 and started acting as a child. He became widely known for playing Elliott in Steven Spielberg’s *E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial* (1982).

Film career

After *E.T.*, Thomas continued acting in films through the 1980s, 1990s, 2000s, and 2010s. His film work includes both leading and supporting roles in genre, drama, and historical productions.

Television work

Thomas has also worked in television, including an award-nominated performance in *Indictment: The McMartin Trial*. More recently, he has been associated with Mike Flanagan’s horror projects, including *The Haunting of Hill House* and *Midnight Mass*.

Awards and recognition

His performance in *E.T.* earned early industry recognition, including a Young Artist Award and major nominations. Later recognition included a Golden Globe nomination for *Indictment: The McMartin Trial*.

Key facts

  • Henry Thomas is best known for his childhood role as Elliott in *E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial* (1982).
  • He won a Young Artist Award and received Golden Globe, BAFTA, and Saturn Award nominations for *E.T.*.
  • His later film credits include *Legends of the Fall*, *Gangs of New York*, and *Doctor Sleep*.
  • He has appeared in television projects such as *The Haunting of Hill House* and *Midnight Mass*.
  • Thomas has also been identified as a musician.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Henry Thomas?
Henry Thomas is an American actor known for his child role as Elliott in *E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial* and for later work in film and television.
When was Henry Thomas born?
He was born on September 9, 1971.
What is Henry Thomas best known for?
He is best known for playing Elliott in *E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial* (1982).
Did Henry Thomas win any awards for *E.T.*?
He won a Young Artist Award and received Golden Globe, BAFTA, and Saturn Award nominations for the role.
What are some later projects Henry Thomas appeared in?
His later credits include *Legends of the Fall*, *Gangs of New York*, *The Haunting of Hill House*, *Doctor Sleep*, and *Midnight Mass*.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Henry_Thomas
    Supports: Birth name, birth date, birthplace, career overview, *E.T.* role, award nominations, and selected filmography.
  2. IMDb — https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0001794/
    Supports: Birth date, birthplace, occupation, known roles, selected film credits, and awards/nominations summary.
  3. Biography.com — https://www.biography.com/actors/henry-thomas
    Supports: Early life, breakout role in *E.T.*, later film roles, and music activity.
  4. Wikipedia (French) — https://www.fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Henry_Thomas
    Supports: Birth name, nationality, occupations, notable films, and television work including *The Haunting of Hill House*.