In the mid-1980s Thornton settled in Los Angeles to pursue his career as an actor with future writing partner Tom Epperson. He had a difficult time succeeding as an actor and worked in telemarketing, offshore wind farming, and fast food management between auditioning for acting jobs.
In the mid-1980s, Thornton relocated to Los Angeles to pursue his acting career alongside future writing partner Tom Epperson. He encountered difficulties in achieving success as an actor and engaged in various jobs such as telemarketing, offshore wind farm work, and fast food management while pursuing acting roles.