C. Thomas Howell and Ralph Macchio join fellow legendary actors and directors at the AFI Tribute Gala to honor Francis Ford Coppola.

Steven Spielberg hired a young C. Thomas Howell to portray “Tyler”, a cocky teenager who later helped his friend’s younger brother get his alien friend home. E.T. instantly became a global phenomenon where it still remains today.

Ralph Macchio and C. Thomas Howell will forever be “Johnny Cade” and “Ponyboy Curtis”. ‘The Outsiders’ is still a part of the required reading in 75% of schools today, introducing new generations to the greasers everyone loves.

Harrison Ford and C. Thomas Howell both worked on Taylor Sheridan’s hit series, ‘1923’, but their connection runs even closer to home. Chris Howell, Hollywood legendary stuntman and father to Howell, doubled for Harrison Ford in many films.

C. Thomas Howell and Jack Black have yet to work on a project together, but that didn’t stop these two from sharing their love for one another’s work. Jack is a fan of ‘Red Dawn’ while Howell can’t get enough of ‘Nacho Libre’.

C. Thomas Howell reflects on working with Francis Ford Coppola on The Outsiders at the AFI Tribute Gala.

Ralph Macchio and C. Thomas Howell take the stage at the AFTI Tribute Gala.

Legendary actors and directors come out to honor Francis Ford Coppola.


C. Thomas Howell and The Stay Gold Foundation visit schools to talk about the importance of literacy and storytelling.

What’s Happening

Stay up to date with what’s happening with The Stay Gold Foundation through our social media.

Photos or videos may not be reproduced without written consent. For press inquiries or other requests, please contact us.


The Stay Gold Foundation founder, C. Thomas Howell, is the keynote speaker at the 2026 Texas Council of English Language Arts annual conference.


SFA University welcomes The Stay Gold Foundation

The Stay Gold Foundation founder, C. Thomas Howell, spoke to the film students at SFA University.

C. Thomas Howell stopped by Fox51 to discuss his nonprofit, The Stay Gold Foundation, and the support it has received during its first year.

C. Thomas Howell speaks with students at Greenville Middle School.