Christopher Thomas Howell was born on December 7, 1966 in Los Angeles, California, USA.

The 6' 0" son of stuntman Chris Howell, his early introduction into showbusiness came at the tender age of four, when he appeared on NBC-TV's "The Little People".

In the early 80's, he made his regular television series debut in the short-lived "Two Marriages", and subsequently won a small role in the movie classic "E.T. - The Extra Terrestrial", before being cast by Frances Ford Coppolla as the lead in cult hit "The Outsiders" alongside fellow Hollywood brat-packers Tom Cruise, Rob Lowe and Matt Dillon.

1986 was to prove a red flag year for C. Thomas, when he endured a double whammy box office splash, terroised out of his car seat by Rutger Hauer in the psychological thriller "The Hitcher" and pretending to be black to gain a scholarship in the memorable comedy flick "Soul Man".

Other notable films were to include: "Grandview USA", "Red Dawn", "A Tiger's Tale", "Kid", "Return of The Musketeers", "Side Out", "That Night", "Acting On Impulse", "Payback", "Dangerous Indiscretion", "Suspect Device" and "Last Lives".

In his personal life, C. Thomas has been married three times. Formerly to co-stars Lori Loughlin ("Secret Admirer") and Rae Dawn Chong ("Soul Man"). Presently to Sylvia, with whom he shares a six-year-old daughter Isabelle.

In addition, he recently ventured behind the camera to co-write and direct some of his more recent projects (such as "Hourglass", "Pure Danger" and "The Big Fall"). He also owns his own production company, entitled Buckwheat Films.