Richard Thomas Reflects On His Remarkable Career And Life

Richard Thomas is thrilled to be part of an elite group of veteran actors who have remained beloved figures throughout their entire lives. His journey in the entertainment world has been nothing short of extraordinary.

“To say I’m fortunate would be an understatement. I’ve been fortunate enough to stay in this unpredictable industry for nearly 62 years,” says Richard, whose breakout role as John-Boy on The Waltons made him a household name. In a candid conversation with Closer Weekly, Richard shares insights about his career evolution. “There’s a unique group of us—child actor survivors—who understand the journey: from childhood roles, through adolescence, to leading man status, and now, as I enter my senior years, as a supporting character actor,” explains the 69-year-old. He fondly mentions fellow survivors like Ron Howard and Kurt Russell, emphasizing the camaraderie among those who’ve shared this rare path. “For all of us who’ve walked this road, there’s an incredible sense of shared experience.”

From Walton's Mountain to Showtime

Since bidding farewell to Walton’s Mountain, Richard has maintained a steady career in theater, film, and television. Most recently, he appeared in Showtime's two-part series, The Comey Rule. This holiday season, he’s set to guest-star as the narrator in Christmas With the Tabernacle Choir, PBS’ cherished annual Christmas special. The event, recorded pre-pandemic, premieres on local PBS stations on December 14 and on BYUtv and the free BYUtv app on December 17. Richard’s participation in this festive celebration underscores his enduring charm and versatility.

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Life in New York During the Pandemic

How has life been for you in New York during the pandemic?

Richard admits to feeling a bit grumpy lately. “I’ve gotten a little grumpier, but who hasn’t during these times?” he laughs. Living in the heart of Manhattan, Richard and his wife have rediscovered the beauty of Central Park. “Our son was eight when we moved here, so walking him through the park to school became a cherished part of our daily routine,” he recalls. Now, with their son grown (he’s 24), Richard and his wife have resumed their long walks in the park. “It’s been a delightful way to rediscover parts of Central Park we’ve never explored before. It’s been a wonderful silver lining during these challenging times.”

Family and Roots

Are your children nearby?

Richard and his wife have a blended family of seven children, with two living in California, three in Bend, Oregon, and two in New York. The geographical spread keeps things lively but rewarding.

When did you know you wanted to be an actor?

Born and raised in a theatrical family—his parents were part of the ballet—Richard was practically born into the world of performance. “Being on stage felt natural. I remember being in a show called Remember the Wedding when I was around 8 or 9. Midway through the second act, I realized, ‘This is it. I’m an actor.’ And since I have no other marketable skills, I’ve had no choice but to keep going!” he jokes.

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Reflections on The Waltons

What memories come to mind when you think about your time on The Waltons?

“We were more than just co-stars; we were family. Over time, that bond deepened. We were all committed to making the show as exceptional as possible. Every day, we aimed to deliver our best work. That sense of purpose and camaraderie is something I’ll always treasure,” Richard reflects.

Who do you stay in touch with from the The Waltons cast?

“Michael Learned, who played our mother, is a close friend. She’s special to all the ‘kids,’ but our friendship is particularly strong. However, the entire cast remains connected, creating a beautiful sense of family that extends beyond the screen.”

Current Projects and Holiday Traditions

What kind of roles interest you today?

Richard remains open to diverse roles, seeking variety in his television projects. In theater, he looks forward to working with contemporary playwrights, but he also holds a deep appreciation for the classics. “There’s still plenty of Shakespeare out there for me to explore,” he says with enthusiasm.

What was it like working on the Tabernacle Choir’s Christmas concert?

“I’m a big fan of Christmas, so this opportunity was thrilling. Collaborating with the talented Kelli O’Hara was a dream come true,” Richard shares.

Were you already a fan of the Tabernacle’s annual broadcast?

“Yes, I’ve watched it in the past, but nothing could have prepared me for the grandeur of the actual event. It was an unforgettable experience, even better than I imagined.”

Celebrating the Holidays

How do you celebrate the holidays?

“I handle Thanksgiving dinner, while my wife takes charge of Christmas. We both enjoy cooking and creating memorable meals together. Our family gatherings are filled with love and laughter, especially since we have so many kids who value sharing meals at home.”

Do you have any special family traditions?

“Nothing too elaborate—just focusing on making the tree beautiful and enjoying my wife’s spectacular Southwestern Christmas feast. It’s all about bringing everyone together, even if the grandkids live far away. They always find a way to visit.”

Marriage and Parenting

What’s the secret to your lasting marriage with Georgiana?

“Georgiana is one of the most genuine and straightforward people I know. There’s immense trust between us, and we genuinely enjoy each other’s company. Blending a family of six kids and then having our own