He was born in Los Angeles, California, the son of composer Alfred Newman (1901-1970) (who scored Battle of Midway, My Friend Flicka, Song of Bernadette, Gentleman’s Agreement, All About Eve, and The Robe) and his wife Martha Louise, née Montgomery. He was educated at Yale University.
His uncle Lionel Newman scored Hello, Dolly!. His brother David Newman scored Daddy Day Care, Death to Smoochy, and Ice Age. His cousin Randy Newman is noted for series of popular albums.
Thomas Newman's credits include music for: