Ernest Thomas - Life After "What's Happening!!" A small town boy from Gary, Indiana, headed to the big city of New York and was accepted into the prestigious American Academy of Dramatic Arts. After that, there was no stopping Ernest Thomas! Next came Broadway, then Hollywood where Thomas would star as Raj in the hit sensation sitcom, What's Happening!! Ernest continued his success with his portrayal of eccentric and hilarious Mr. Omar on Everybody Hates Chris. Now with one published book under his belt and another one on the way, Ernest is in heavy demand to star in ...