Roger "Raj" Thomas (Ernest Thomas), the show's protagonist, is a teenager living in Watts with his divorced mother Mabel and his younger sister Dee. Raj is an intelligent, well-mannered young man who sports large black horn-rimmed glasses and aspires to be a writer. Many episodes involve Raj taking steps to pursue his dream, from saving up for a screenwriting course or a typewriter to trying to impress a TV producer. Eventually, he graduates from high school, moves out, and goes to college. Raj is known for his trademark high-pitched laugh and his bizarre style of dancing. For example, he had one move that involved placing his chin upon his fist, like “The Thinker.” He sometimes tries to impress older women by talking in a baritone voice. Raj sometimes mumbles when there is something that he does not wish to say, but knows he must, especially if it is bad news.