Thomas Jeffrey Hanks, born on July 9, 1956, is an American actor and filmmaker. He’s famous for his roles in both funny and serious movies, making him one of the most popular film stars globally. He’s considered an icon of American culture. His movies have earned billions of dollars, making him one of the highest-grossing actors in North America.
Hanks became widely known for his roles in comedy films like “Splash” (1984), “Big” (1988), and “A League of Their Own” (1992). He gained critical acclaim and won two Oscars in a row for Best Actor for his roles in “Philadelphia” (1993) and “Forrest Gump” (1994).
He’s also collaborated with director Steven Spielberg on several films and TV series. Hanks has starred in a wide range of movies from romantic comedies like “Sleepless in Seattle” (1993) to dramas like “Apollo 13” (1995) and “Captain Phillips” (2013). He’s also known for voicing Sheriff Woody in the “Toy Story” series.
Besides acting, Hanks has ventured into directing and producing. He founded his production company, Playtone, and has been involved in producing TV series and movies. Hanks has received numerous awards, including the AFI Life Achievement Award and multiple Golden Globe awards.
Born in Concord, California, Hanks had a varied childhood, moving frequently with his family. Despite early struggles in school, he found his passion for acting during college and started his career in theater before moving into movies.
Outside of his career, Hanks is also known for his philanthropy and public speaking. He’s married to actress Rita Wilson and has become a notable figure in both entertainment and humanitarian efforts.