Part 5: Ernest Lee Thomas on Brother Coming Out as Transgender, Dying of AIDS
Part 3: Ernest Lee Thomas on Parents Holding "Go Back to Africa" Signs at High School
Part 1: Ernest Lee Thomas on Mother Trying to Abort Him with Coat Hanger
--------
In this clip, Ernest Lee Thomas opened up about getting his bachelor's and master's degrees before heading to The American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York. Ernest explained that he was excelling in his classes, and he was cast in an off-Broadway show, which led to being cast in two Broadway plays. From there, Ernest took off to Hollywood to pursue television, as he explained that his mother and grandmother didn't understand Broadway. After appearing on The Jeffersons, Ernest was told about a television show that was being adapted from the 1975 film "Cooley High," which later turned out to be "What's Happening!!"
Moving along, Thomas spoke about the "Cooley High" TV show pilot being scrapped, and the producers later calling him back to screen for "What's Happening!!," which ended up being a hit TV show. He also spoke about auditioning for the role of Kunta Kinte for the "Roots" miniseries, and crying when he lost out to LaVar Burton for the role. After Vlad pointed out what a success the miniseries was when it aired, Ernest revealed that he has never watched it, which you can hear more about above.
Watch the full interview now as a VladTV Youtube Member: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KXTX4nAcVGI&list=UUMOg7lal8IC-xPyKfgH4rdUcA&index=1
