Thomas Michael Reilly III (born June 18, 1959, in Fort Riley North, Kansas) is an American actor, known for his role as Officer Bobby "Hot Dog" Nelson in CHiPs, a television series about the motorcycle officers of the California Highway Patrol.
His first role on CHiPs was Officer Rick Nichols in the May 23, 1982, episode "Force Seven," a rejected pilot for a new series.
After the departure of Larry Wilcox, Tom returned in the role of Officer Bobby Nelson, the new partner of Ponch (Erik Estrada).
His role of Officer Bobby Nelson was featured somewhat less prominently in the final episodes, with Officer Bruce Nelson (Bruce Penhall), his younger brother, eventually becoming Ponch's partner in the episode "Fast Company."
He lives in the Monterey Peninsula and is currently dating singer/songwriter Judy Lynne of the Bay Area, California.