How did the American actor Richard Thomas get famous?

Richard Thomas gained significant fame through his role as John-Boy Walton, the eldest son in the long-running CBS television series "The Waltons", which aired from 1972 to 1981. The show portrayed the lives of a family living in rural Virginia during the Great Depression. Thomas played the central character throughout its nine seasons, establishing him as a household name and capturing the hearts of millions of viewers.

Prior to his role in "The Waltons," Richard Thomas had already made a name for himself as a child actor. He gained attention for his performance as the title character in the 1969 Broadway production of "You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown" and went on to appear in several other productions, including the film "Winning" (1969) alongside Paul Newman.

However, it was "The Waltons" that propelled Thomas to international fame. His depiction of John-Boy, the sensitive, intelligent, and compassionate eldest son, resonated with audiences of all ages. The character's journey of growing up, facing challenges, and pursuing his dreams of becoming a writer provided a compelling storyline for the series.

Richard Thomas's portrayal of John-Boy and his dedication to the character for over a decade solidified his position as a beloved actor. After "The Waltons," he continued his career in film, television, and theater, taking on diverse roles and proving his versatility as an actor.

Overall, it was the combination of his early successes as a child actor and the enduring popularity of "The Waltons" that brought Richard Thomas to prominence and made him a recognizable figure in the entertainment industry.