Thomas Del Ruth, a notable figure in the world of cinema, entered the world on May 1st, 1942, within the affluent confines of Beverly Hills, California, where his family had cultivated a rich history within the film industry. His father, the illustrious Roy Del Ruth, was a respected and accomplished film producer and director, leaving an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. On the other hand, his mother, the charming and talented Winnie Lightner, was a renowned actress and musical comedy star, captivating audiences with her mesmerizing performances. Interestingly, Roy Del Ruth's contributions to the world of cinema were so significant that he was honored with a star on the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame, a testament to his enduring legacy.
Thomas's childhood was marked by a unique and immersive exposure to the multifaceted world of filmmaking, courtesy of his parents' respective careers within the industry. A regular fixture on set, Thomas would often accompany his mother or father, gaining valuable insight into the intricacies of the craft. As he wandered the production area, his curiosity was piqued by the art and science of cinematography, and he began to develop a profound appreciation for the nuances of the medium.
The influence of the Director of Photography, in particular, had a profound and lasting impact on Thomas. He was struck by the technical expertise and creative vision that these individuals brought to the project, and he soon became determined to follow in their footsteps, dedicating himself to a career in this field.
Thomas, a former US Army Paratrooper, initially embarked on a career in the entertainment industry as a print model and commercial actor in 1965, but soon discovered that his genuine enthusiasm and aptitude lay in the realm of filmmaking. In pursuit of refining his artistic skills, Thomas enrolled in the esteemed University of Southern California (USC) Cinema School, simultaneously balancing his studies with a part-time position at Walt Disney Studios, where he worked diligently in the Mail and Message Department.
Thomas's trajectory in the film industry took an auspicious turn during this pivotal period, as he had the privilege of crossing paths with the esteemed Saul Halprin, the visionary head of the Camera Department at the renowned 20th Century Fox.
This serendipitous encounter blossomed into a life-changing invitation to embark on his professional journey at Fox, an opportunity that Thomas cherishes to this day. He is eternally grateful for the unwavering support and guidance he received from Mr. Halprin and a multitude of other influential individuals, whose collective expertise and mentorship played a pivotal role in his ultimate success within the film industry.
