Biographie
Philip Michael Thomas, renowned for his role as Detective Rico Tubbs in the iconic 1980s TV series Miami Vice (1984), made his Broadway debut in 1971 with the Pulitzer Prize-winning play No Place to Be Somebody and has been active ever since.
Over nearly four decades, PMT has collaborated with leading figures in theater, film, and music.
His TV career began with a guest appearance in the 1973 pilot Pilot, followed by roles in Good Times (1974), Police Woman (1974), Medical Center (1969), Wonder Woman (1978), Starsky and Hutch (1978), and Trapper John, M.D. (1979). In 1984, he gained widespread fame with Miami Vice, which brought him global recognition and opportunities to meet prominent figures such as President Ronald Reagan and Nelson Mandela, as well as numerous celebrities and devoted fans.
Though internationally acclaimed as an actor, PMT’s greatest passion is music. He wrote his first song at 11 and has since composed and performed a diverse range of genres, including Gospel, R&B, pop standards, and rock. A longtime friend has described his musical talent as “an undiscovered diamond.”
During Miami Vice’s peak years (1984-1989), PMT released two well-received albums: Livin' the Book of My Life (1985) and Somebody (1988), both under his Starship Records label with Atlantic Records distribution. While beloved by fans, the albums didn’t achieve expected commercial success, possibly due to their eclectic styles, and are now out of print but sought after on eBay. PMT is considering reissuing these albums with bonus tracks in 2007 or 2008.
Imagination and love overcoming adversity are central themes in his life. He recalls singing “The Impossible Dream” from Man of La Mancha at Oakwood College in 1967 as a pivotal moment.
Friends and family describe PMT as compassionate, spiritual, and generous. He attributes his positive outlook to a vegetarian diet, regular exercise, lifelong learning, meaningful friendships, and inspirational books such as The Holy Bible, Napoleon Hill’s Think and Grow Rich, and Paramahansa Yogananda’s Autobiography of a Yogi.
Choosing Florida as his home over entertainment hubs like Los Angeles or New York, PMT prefers a life away from the spotlight. However, he remains active in 2007, working on his autobiography, managing his official website, reading scripts, performing, composing music, and mentoring aspiring performers—all with his characteristic charm, energy, and the motto “Treasure beyond measure!” proudly displayed.
