Leon George Thomas III emerged from a childhood on the Broadway stage to become a central figure in modern R&B production and performance. Born in Brooklyn in 1993, he navigated a dual career, transitioning from a recognizable face in Nickelodeon television hits to a Grammy Award-winning songwriter and solo artist with a significant Billboard presence.
Early Career and Stage Roots
Thomas made his Broadway debut in 2003 at the age of 10 as Young Simba in The Lion King. His musical theater background expanded quickly as he took on roles in Caroline, or Change in 2004 and The Color Purple. Parallel to his theatrical work, he entered film and voice acting, appearing in the 2007 film August Rush and providing the singing voice for Tyrone in The Backyardigans.
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In 2010, Thomas gained widespread recognition for his role as Andre Harris in the Nickelodeon sitcom Victorious. He remained a main cast member until the series concluded in 2013, contributing tracks to the show's soundtrack albums. During this period, he also made appearances on series such as iCarly and True Jackson, VP.
Production and Songwriting Contributions
As part of the production duo The Rascals alongside Khris Riddick-Tynes, Thomas became an influential songwriter and producer. He collaborated with artists including Ariana Grande, Drake, Rick Ross, SZA, and Toni Braxton. His work earned multiple industry accolades, including a Grammy Award for Best R&B Song for his contribution to SZA's hit, Snooze.
Solo Discography and Recent Work
Transitioning to a focus on his solo output, Thomas released several mixtapes, including Metro Hearts in 2012 and V1bes in 2014. In 2022, he signed with Ty Dolla Sign's EZMNY Records and Motown. His 2024 album, Mutt, marked his first entry on the Billboard 200, with its lead single peaking at number six on the Billboard Hot 100.
Fast facts
- Born: 1993, Brooklyn, United States
- Broadway debut: 2003, The Lion King
- Notable TV role: Andre Harris in Victorious
- Production duo: The Rascals
- First Billboard 200 album: Mutt (2024)
- Grammy recognition: Best R&B Song for Snooze
- Label affiliation: EZMNY Records and Motown
- Languages: English
Questions readers ask
What was Leon Thomas III's first major television role?
He gained wide recognition starring as Andre Harris in the Nickelodeon sitcom Victorious, which aired from 2010 to 2013.
Has he won any Grammy Awards?
Yes, he won a Grammy Award for Best R&B Song for co-writing SZA's Snooze and later won Best R&B Album for Mutt at the 68th Annual Grammy Awards.
Achievements
- Notable work: Victorious
- Worked as actor, singer and film actor
