Tom Hanks

Tom Hanks is an actor and filmmaker known for his roles in films such as the iconic 1994 film "Forrest Gump," 2013’s "Captain Phillips," and 1993’s "Sleepless in Seattle" with Meg Ryan. Additionally, Hanks has made notable performances in other films such as "Apollo 13," "The Green Mile," and "Cast Away." More recent films include "A Man Called Otto," "Elvis," and "Asteroid City."

Hanks’ other significant contributions include collaborating with directors Steven Spielberg, Ron Howard, Nora Ephron, and Robert Zemeckis. His films have grossed over $4.9 billion in North America and more than $9.96 billion worldwide, making him the fourth-highest-grossing actor in North America.

With his acting prowess, Hanks won two consecutive Academy Awards for Best Actor for his roles in "Philadelphia" and "Forrest Gump." He made his Broadway debut in Nora Ephron's "Lucky Guy" and earned a Tony Award nomination for Best Actor in a Play. Further extending his reach in the entertainment industry, Hanks has also worked in television and has won seven Primetime Emmy Awards for his work as a producer.

Throughout his career, Hanks has received numerous honors, including the AFI Life Achievement Award, the Kennedy Center Honor, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. In 2020, he was awarded the Golden Globe Cecil B. DeMille Award.

Before achieving stardom, Hanks attended Chabot College and studied theater, then transferred to California State University, Sacramento after two years. During his time in college, Hanks met Vincent Dowling, head of the Great Lakes Theater Festival in Cleveland, Ohio. He served a three-year internship there, learning about lighting, set design, and stage management.

Off-screen, Hanks is an outspoken Democrat and supports causes such as same-sex marriage, development of alternative fuels, and environmental conservation. He has also revealed his diagnosis with type 2 diabetes and speaks openly about it. Hanks is an active supporter of NASA’s manned space program and serves as a member of the National Space Society.