J. Karen Thomas (1965 – March 26, 2015) was an American actress, singer, and voice artist. Her numerous television credits included her role as Audrey Carlisle on the dramatic television series, Nashville.^[1] Other television roles included recurring roles and guest appearances on Drop Dead Diva, The Ellen Show and Criminal Minds.^[1] Thomas' cinematic credits included The Identical (2014), Captive (2015), and a co-starring role in the 2014 film, Boulevard, which was shot in her native Nashville, opposite Robin Williams.^[1]

Thomas was born in Nashville, Tennessee, and graduated from Memphis State University, now known as the University of Memphis.^[1] During the mid to late 80's, she was the midday DJ at popular Nashville radio station WYHY, Y107 (now WRVW, 107.5 The River). She was a valuable member the Nashville theater community. In 2013, Thomas won the Circle Award for Best Supporting Actress for her portrayal of Shug Avery in The Color Purple.^[1] She also released two albums during her career.^[1]

J. Karen Thomas was diagnosed with multiple myeloma in January 2015. Thomas died from the disease on March 26, 2015, at the age of 50.^[1] She is survived by her partner of 18 years, Colette Divine.^[1]