Thomas is a popular and important character on The Bold and the Beautiful. Currently, Matthew Atkinson plays the bad boy fashion designer. However, the actor and character have been MIA in recent months. When and if Thomas does return, viewers might see another actor in the role.
Key Takeaways
- Atkinson has played Thomas since 2019.
- Drew Tyler Bell played Thomas from 2004 to 2010.
- Bell recently visited the set, sparking speculation of a return.
Surprise Set Visit
There have been many actors who’ve portrayed Thomas. One of the most memorable is Drew Tyler Bell, who played a teenage Thomas from 2004 to 2010.
During Bell’s tenure on the show, Thomas faced a lot of turmoil. From feuding with Rick (Jacob Young) over Caitlin (Kayla Ewell) to the death of his sister Phoebe (MacKenzie Mauzy) to trying to kill Rick, there was much drama for Thomas. Bell’s emotional performances were applauded by fans and earned him the 2010 Daytime Emmy for Outstanding Younger Actor.
It’s been 16 years since his departure, but Bell has remained close to the cast and crew. Recently, he reunited with his castmates during a visit to the set. On the boldandbeautifultv Instagram page, photos of Bell’s visit were posted.
The actor was smiling as he posed with John McCook, Heather Tom, Don Diamont, and producer Casey Kasprzyk. “Throwing it back with a blast from the past! Drew Tyler Bell (Thomas Forrester from 2004-2010) swings by the new studio to catch up and relive the good old days with the cast and crew of B&B,” the caption read.
Thomas’ Switch
Bell’s visit was a treat for many fans, but it also raised suspicion. Since Atkinson has been MIA as Thomas, many are wondering if Bell will reprise his former role.
“Can’t believe it. The original Thomas. Hope he is back,” one fan wrote.
“He looks exactly like Thorsten. It would be perfect casting!” declared one viewer. “Bring him back as Thomas,” one user suggested.
While most fans were on board with Bell reprising his role, others preferred Atkinson. “The OG Thomas. He has changed a lot and looks better. However, even if he was a great Thomas, I want Matthew Atkinson back.”
Atkinson, who’s played Thomas since 2019, has won fans over with his portrayal. Although there’s been some criticism about Thomas being a villain, Atkinson has excelled in his gripping performance as the reformed designer.
Atkinson’s last appearance as Thomas came in December 2025, when he returned to work on the Hope For the Future collection. Since then, Thomas has been missing during the Forrester Creations drama and Taylor’s (Rebecca Budig) relationship with Deacon (Sean Kanan).
With Hope (Annika Noelle) leaving Forrester and heading to Logan, now would be a good time for Thomas to return. But when fans see him the next time, will it be Atkinson, Bell, or someone else in the role?
