Heather Thomas, the stunning actress who captured hearts in the 1980s, had it all. She was known for her role opposite Lee Majors in the hit TV show, The Fall Guy, and was destined for a successful Hollywood career. But everything changed one fateful day when her personal problems almost cost her everything. Today, at 66 years old, Heather Thomas has overcome adversity and is an inspiration to us all. Let’s take a look at her incredible journey.
The Early Years and Rise to Fame
Even at a young age, Heather Thomas had star potential. At just 14 years old, she hosted a popular NBC series called Talking with a Giant, where she interviewed celebrities alongside four other teenagers. This early taste of success fueled her ambition to pursue a career in film and theater.
Heather studied film and theater at UCLA and made her first significant appearance in the 1979 comedy series, Co-Ed Fever. However, it was her breakthrough role as Jody Banks in The Fall Guy in 1980 that catapulted her to stardom. As a stuntwoman-bounty hunter, Heather became a sex symbol and a favorite among male viewers.
The Dark Side and Road to Recovery
Behind the glitz and glamour, Heather was battling personal demons. Her struggles with substance abuse began at a young age, and her addiction escalated while filming The Fall Guy. Cocaine became her drug of choice, and she developed an unhealthy obsession with weight, resorting to extreme measures to stay slim.
Her drug use took a toll on her health and career. Heather’s weight dropped dangerously, and she would often fall asleep on set. It all came crashing down when she passed out in front of Lee Majors, who alerted her manager and ultimately led to her intervention.
Heather’s family and friends rallied around her and supported her decision to seek help. She checked into a three-week drug program and discovered she had pneumonia, scarred lungs, and inflamed kidneys. Determined to turn her life around, she committed to her recovery.
A New Beginning and Continued Success
With her newfound sobriety, Heather was determined to rebuild her life and career. She divorced her husband and co-founder of Cocaine Anonymous, Allan Rosenthal, and underwent surgery to repair her legs after a serious car accident.
Heather returned to work with smaller roles in TV series and films. She worked on projects like Cyclone in 1987 and Red Blooded American Girl in 1990. Despite facing personal and professional challenges, Heather persevered and found love again, marrying entertainment lawyer Skip Brittenham.
Heather’s focus shifted towards writing, but she did make a brief comeback in the 2017 movie, Girltrash: All Night Long. Sadly, persistent stalkers forced her to prioritize the safety and upbringing of her two daughters over her acting career.
An Inspiring Journey of Recovery
Today, Heather Thomas is an activist and continues to inspire others with her story of triumph over adversity. She has served on the board for the Rape Foundation and the Amazon Conservation Team, dedicating herself to causes she believes in.
Heather identifies as a feminist and has a powerful message to share. She believes in the power of owning your body and not compromising your values. Her journey is a testament to resilience and the ability to overcome even the darkest of times.
Heather Thomas may not have achieved the Hollywood success she once envisioned, but she has found something far more valuable – a lifelong journey of recovery and personal growth. We will always remember her as the beautiful and talented actress who graced our screens in the 1980s. Share your thoughts and memories of Heather Thomas and celebrate her inspiring journey!
