Henry Thomas, the childhood star who captured hearts as Elliott in the iconic 1982 film E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, has come a long way since his days of fame. While many remember him as the boy who befriended an alien, Henry's life has taken him on quite the journey. Growing up quietly on a farm in South Texas, he's now embraced rural life once again—this time with his third wife, Anna, and their three children: Hazel, Evelyn, and Henry III. Nearly four decades after stepping into the spotlight, he's found balance between his acting career and a peaceful family life.
In a candid conversation with Closer Weekly, the 46-year-old shares his experiences and insights. "I always dreamed of living this way," Henry laughs, reflecting on his current lifestyle. "We've got horses, apples—and yes, even horse apples!" Despite being forever linked to one of cinema's most beloved roles, Henry has carved out a successful adult career in Hollywood. "It’s tough when people only remember you for that iconic role," he admits. "But I’ve learned to embrace rejection as part of the game. If you can’t handle it, trust me, you won’t last long in this business."
Henry in E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial.
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These days, Henry is juggling exciting projects, including a Lifetime movie titled Girl in the Bunker, alongside a Netflix series, The Haunting of Hill House, set to premiere in October. In an exclusive Q&A interview, the usually private actor opens up about his childhood, his relationships, and why being a parent has been the most fulfilling chapter of his life.
How Did Acting Become Your Path?
It all started with a clever workaround. "I hated piano lessons," Henry recalls with a grin. "But I discovered that if I joined plays, I could skip those lessons altogether!" Inspired by the release of Star Wars when he was just six years old, Henry realized that imagination could become reality through the magic of filmmaking. "I thought, wow, we can bring these wild ideas to life. That’s what I wanted to do."
What’s Your Favorite Memory from E.T.?
For Henry, one moment stands out vividly: Halloween on set. "It was magical," he says. "The crew dressed up, and it felt like a family gathering. As a kid surrounded by adults, that atmosphere made the set feel lighter and more welcoming." He adds, "It’s important to have moments like that in such a serious environment."
Staying Connected: Keeping in Touch with the Cast
Henry maintains a close bond with Robert MacNaughton, who played his older brother in the film. "We’ve stayed friends over the years," Henry explains. "He lives in Manhattan, and I see him at least once a year. He was a mentor to me back then because I didn’t have siblings, and he had experience with Shakespeare. I’d always turn to him for advice."
