Kevin Thomas TNT Obituary Death: A Tribute to a Cherished Stagehand
The sudden passing of Kevin Thomas, a beloved stagehand for TNT’s Inside the NBA, has left a void in the hearts of his colleagues and friends. Thomas, who was 70 years old at the time of his death, had been a fixture at Studio J for over 30 years, working behind the scenes to bring joy and laughter to the show’s audience.
His unexpected death was announced during a heartfelt tribute on the May 8, 2025, broadcast of the show, where hosts Ernie Johnson, Charles Barkley, Kenny Smith, and Shaquille O’Neal gathered to honor his memory .
A Legacy of Warmth and Humor
Thomas’s presence on the show was more than just a job; it was a vital part of the show’s identity. He often appeared in comedic skits and lighthearted segments, bringing a sense of playfulness and camaraderie to the set.
Whether it was filing Shaq’s nails or participating in playful wrestling bits, Thomas’s antics brought joy and laughter to both the crew and the audience. His warmth, humor, and dedication to his work earned him the respect and admiration of his colleagues .
Tributes from Colleagues
During the tribute, Ernie Johnson described Thomas as “one great teammate” with a “joyous sense of humor” and a kindness that drew people in. Johnson’s emotional tribute highlighted the impact Thomas had on the show and its crew. “This studio will never be the same,” Johnson said, visibly emotional.
Charles Barkley also paid tribute to Thomas, reflecting on the shock of his sudden passing. “We’ve always said, the people behind us do all the heavy lifting on the show,” Barkley noted. “The world is a sadder place because Kevin’s not here. He was just a really good dude, and we’re going to miss him.”
Kenny Smith highlighted Thomas’s creative contributions, recalling how his behind-the-scenes ideas often made it into the show. “Kevin probably could have pointed to 20 ideas or enhancing ideas and said, ‘No, Kenny. When Shaq comes out, you do this,'” Smith shared, illustrating Thomas’s deep involvement in the show’s production.
Shaquille O’Neal also paid tribute to Thomas, recalling him as his go-to person for any on-set needs. “Kevin was a great man… Whenever I needed something, he was the guy. I need a bird. They come get birds. I need wigs. They come back with a box of wigs,” O’Neal reminisced, highlighting Thomas’s unwavering support and resourcefulness .
A Sudden and Unexpected Passing
Details surrounding the cause of Thomas’s death have not been publicly disclosed, but his passing was described as sudden and unexpected. The family has requested privacy during this difficult time. Thomas is survived by his wife, Cece, his son, Noah, and four grandchildren .
A Lasting Legacy
Thomas’s contributions to Inside the NBA were instrumental in shaping the show’s identity, and his absence will be deeply felt by both the crew and the audience.
As the show prepares for its transition to ESPN next year, marking the end of an era, the tribute to Thomas serves as a poignant reminder of the impact he had on the show and its crew. His legacy will continue to live on in the memories of those who knew him and in the continued excellence of a show he helped build.
