Henry Thomas Felt ‘Defeated’ at His “E.T.” Audition, Says He Thought He ‘Lost the Part the Minute I Opened My Mouth’

Henry Thomas, best known for his iconic role as Elliott in the classic 1982 film E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, has revisited his audition experience, shedding light on aspects that many fans may not have been aware of. Recent interviews have reignited interest in his emotional audition, which has garnered significant attention on social media.

In a recent appearance on The Hollywood Reporter’s podcast, Thomas, now 54, reflected on the audition that ultimately convinced director Steven Spielberg to cast him as the lead. Although clips of the audition have circulated widely, revealing a tearful Thomas pleading for his friend not to be taken away by a government agency, he confessed that this viral footage only showcased the latter part of a more complex audition process.

Initially, Thomas did not feel confident about his performance. He shared that he felt he had “done the worst job possible” as soon as he delivered his opening line. His memory of the audition is marked by a sense of uncertainty, recalling how he felt defeated and as though he had already lost the part. “I thought I blew it. So I’m sitting here thinking, ‘Oh man, you just, you had an opportunity and you let it go,'” he explained.

In the early moments of the audition, Thomas appeared visibly downcast, his face reflecting disappointment as he grappled with the belief that he had not impressed Spielberg. It was amidst this self-doubt that he was surprised when Spielberg and casting agent Mike Fenn suggested improvisation. It was this creative pivot that helped salvage the audition, providing the emotional depth that captivated the director and secured Thomas the role.

The full audition showcased this improvisational moment, which ultimately struck a chord with Spielberg. Thomas’s genuine emotional response to the task at hand was evident and left a lasting impact on the selection process. The director’s decision, punctuated by the words, “Okay, kid, you got the job,” marked the beginning of an unforgettable career for the young actor.

Following his success in E.T., Thomas maintained a relatively low profile throughout his life. In a 1998 interview, he expressed a desire to enjoy a normal childhood, stepping away from the limelight that often accompanies early stardom. However, he eventually returned to acting, driven by a renewed passion for his craft.

Over the years, Thomas has taken on a variety of roles in both film and television, demonstrating his range as an actor. He starred in notable projects such as Martin Scorsese’s 2002 film Gangs of New York and the romantic drama Dear John in 2010. More recently, he garnered acclaim for his performance in the popular Netflix series, The Haunting of Hill House, where he played the character Hugh Crain.

Beyond his television and film successes, Thomas received recognition for his acting prowess with a Golden Globe nomination for his portrayal of a man embroiled in controversy in the 1995 HBO film Indictment: The McMartin Trial. This nomination underscored his ability to tackle complex and challenging roles, further solidifying his place in the entertainment industry.

As Thomas continues to reflect on his past, his experiences during the audition for E.T. remain a poignant reminder of the journey from uncertainty to success. The story serves as an inspiration to aspiring actors and a reminder that even the most celebrated performances can stem from deeply human moments of vulnerability and doubt.