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Tom Hanks: From Big to Rich!
Tom Hanks is one of the most beloved actors in Hollywood. With his charming personality and incredible range, he has won the hearts of audiences around the world. Starting as a comedian, he quickly moved on to more dramatic roles, showcasing his versatility as an actor. He has also proved himself as a successful director and producer, and his philanthropic efforts have made him a respected public figure. In this article, we’ll take a look at the actor’s journey from his breakout role in “Big” to his latest ventures in Hollywood and beyond.
Tom Hanks: The Big Star in Hollywood
Tom Hanks was born in Concord, California, in 1956, and raised in a Catholic family. He started his acting career in the late 70s, with small roles on TV shows like “The Love Boat” and “Taxi.” However, it was his portrayal of the lovable Josh Baskin in “Big” (1988) that launched him to stardom. The movie was a huge hit, and Hanks became a household name overnight.
The Rise of Tom Hanks in the Movie Industry
After “Big,” Tom Hanks starred in a series of successful movies, including “Turner & Hooch” (1989), “A League of Their Own” (1992), and “Sleepless in Seattle” (1993). He also won his first Academy Award for Best Actor for his role in “Philadelphia” (1993), in which he played a lawyer who is fired from his law firm after he contracts AIDS.
From Sleepless in Seattle to Forrest Gump
In 1994, Tom Hanks starred in “Forrest Gump,” one of the most successful movies of all time. The movie won six Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and Hanks won his second consecutive Oscar for Best Actor. In the years that followed, Hanks continued to deliver outstanding performances in movies like “Apollo 13” (1995), “Saving Private Ryan” (1998), and “Cast Away” (2000).
The Many Awards of Tom Hanks
Throughout his career, Tom Hanks has won numerous awards for his acting, directing, and producing work. He has won two Academy Awards, four Golden Globe Awards, and seven Primetime Emmy Awards. He has also been honored with the Cecil B. DeMille Award, the Kennedy Center Honors, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
The Voice of Woody in Toy Story
One of Tom Hanks’ most iconic roles is that of Woody, the cowboy doll in the “Toy Story” movies. He has voiced the character in all four movies, and his performance has been praised for its warmth and humor. The “Toy Story” franchise is one of the most successful animated movie franchises of all time, and Hanks’ role in it has cemented his place in pop culture history.
The Philanthropic Efforts of Tom Hanks
Tom Hanks is not only a talented actor, but also a committed philanthropist. He has supported numerous charities throughout his career, including the National Space Society, the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, and the World Wildlife Fund. He has also served as the campaign chair for the United Way of America.
The Broadway Debut of Tom Hanks
In 2013, Tom Hanks made his Broadway debut in “Lucky Guy,” a play by Nora Ephron. The play was a critical and commercial success, and Hanks’ performance was praised for its emotional depth. He was nominated for a Tony Award for Best Actor in a Play, but ultimately lost to Tracy Letts.
The Box Office Success of Tom Hanks
Tom Hanks has starred in some of the most successful movies of all time. His movies have grossed over $9 billion worldwide, making him one of the most bankable actors in Hollywood. He has also proved himself as a producer, with his production company, Playtone, behind successful TV shows like “Band of Brothers” and “The Pacific.”
The Many Talents of Tom Hanks
Tom Hanks is not only a talented actor, but also a skilled writer and director. He wrote, directed, and starred in the movie “That Thing You Do!” (1996), which received critical acclaim for its nostalgic portrayal of the 60s. He has also directed episodes of TV shows like “Band of Brothers” and “From the Earth to the Moon.”
The Circle of Friends of Tom Hanks
Tom Hanks is known for his friendly and approachable personality, and he has formed close friendships with many of his fellow actors and directors. Some of his closest friends include Steven Spielberg, Meg Ryan, and Ron Howard. He has also mentored younger actors, like Emma Watson and Chloë Grace Moretz.
The Latest Ventures of Tom Hanks
In recent years, Tom Hanks has continued to work on a variety of projects. He starred in the movie “Sully” (2016), which tells the story of a pilot who landed a damaged plane on the Hudson River. He also starred in the movie “The Post” (2017), which tells the story of The Washington Post’s decision to publish the Pentagon Papers. He is currently working on several projects, including a movie about Elvis Presley and a TV adaptation of the sci-fi novel “The Martian.”
Tom Hanks: A Hollywood Icon Turned Businessman
In addition to his acting and philanthropic work, Tom Hanks is also a successful businessman. He is the co-owner of the typewriter company, Hanx Writer, and has released a line of personal protective equipment (PPE) during the COVID-19 pandemic. He has also written a collection of short stories, “Uncommon Type,” which was published in 2017.
Tom Hanks has had an incredible career, spanning over four decades. With his talent, charm, and philanthropic efforts, he has become a beloved figure in Hollywood and beyond. As he continues to work on new projects and business ventures, we can’t wait to see what he’ll do next.