The Cavalier Daily
Serving the University Community Since 1890

Hometown Heroes: Sean Patrick Thomas

You may not recognize Sean Patrick Thomas's name, but odds are you would recognize his face. The versatile actor has appeared and starred in a number of hit movies and television shows, including Save the Last Dance and Reaper (CW). Just as notably, Thomas once graced the hallowed halls of the University as a member of the Class of 1992.

The son of Guyanese immigrants, Thomas was raised in Wilmington, Del. He planned to study law but was already dabbling in acting when he arrived at the University, starring in a commercial for the University during his time as a student. Upon graduating, Thomas decided to change his course and enrolled in New York University's graduate acting program at the Tisch School of the Arts.

Fortunately for Thomas, his decision proved to be a good one. He landed bit roles in '90s teen classics Can't Hardly Wait and Cruel Intentions before hitting his big break starring opposite Julia Stiles in Save the Last Dance (2001), for which he received an MTV Movie Award for Best Breakthrough Performance. He continues to enjoy success on both the big and small screens, most recently on Ringer (CW) and the upcoming film Murder on the 13th Floor. He married actress Aonika Laurent in 2006, and they have one son and one daughter.

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