Michelle Thomas

Michelle Thomas (September 23, 1968 - December 23, 1998) was an American actor and comedian known for her warmth, charm, and memorable performances in television sitcoms. Born in Boston, Massachusetts, and raised in Montclair, New Jersey, Thomas was introduced to the arts at an early age, thanks to her musician father, Dennis Thomas of Kool & the Gang, and her theater-loving mother. Thomas gained widespread recognition for her role as Justine Phillips, the girlfriend of Theo Huxtable, on NBC's iconic sitcom "The Cosby Show" (1984-1992). She continued her rise to fame as Myra Monkhouse, the sweet and devoted girlfriend of Steve Urkel, on ABC's "Family Matters" (1989-1998). Her portrayal of Myra showcased her comedic timing and ability to bring depth to her character, endearing her to audiences. In addition to her television work, Thomas appeared in recurring roles on "The Young and the Restless" (1998), as Callie Rogers Stark, and made guest appearances on popular shows like "Dream Date" and "Thea". She also had a role in the film "Maid in Manhattan" (2002). Michelle Thomas passed away on December 23, 1998, tragically at the age of 30 after a battle with a rare form of stomach cancer. Despite her untimely death, her legacy lives on through her unforgettable performances and the joy she brought to millions.