Tom Hanks: Fun Facts

 

Tom Hanks. Photo by rottentomatoes.com

Tom Hanks is a household name, known for his remarkable acting skills and affable personality. While many may be familiar with his iconic roles in films like "Forrest Gump" and "Cast Away," there are plenty of fascinating tidbits about this Hollywood legend that often go unnoticed. From his quirky hobbies to his unexpected talents, here are 10 fun facts that shed new light on the man behind the characters.

1. Accidental Screen Debut: Hanks's first role was in a low-budget horror film titled "He Knows You're Alone" (1980). Interestingly, he was cast by chance when he accompanied a friend to the audition and caught the director's eye, kickstarting his illustrious acting career.

2. Voice of Reason: Beyond his acting prowess, Hanks is renowned for his distinctive voice. He provided the voice for Woody, the beloved cowboy doll in Pixar's "Toy Story" franchise, endearing himself to audiences of all ages with his iconic catchphrase, "There's a snake in my boot!"

3. Typewriter Enthusiast: In the digital age, Hanks maintains a passion for typewriters. He's an avid collector and even wrote a book of short stories titled "Uncommon Type" (2017), inspired by his love for these vintage writing machines.

4. Space Odyssey: Hanks's fascination with space exploration isn't just on-screen. In 2002, he reportedly paid $200,000 to send an espresso machine to the International Space Station, ensuring astronauts could enjoy a decent cup of coffee in orbit.

5. Presidential Connection: Hanks shares a distant family connection with one of America's most beloved presidents, Abraham Lincoln. Genealogists have traced his lineage back to Nancy Hanks, who was Lincoln's mother, making him a third cousin, four times removed.

6. Hidden Talents: Besides acting, Hanks is proficient in another art form—playwriting. He co-wrote and directed the film "That Thing You Do!" (1996), showcasing his multifaceted creative abilities beyond just performing on screen.

7. Honorary Ranger: In 2019, Hanks was named an honorary inductee into the Army Ranger Hall of Fame for his realistic portrayal of a World War II Army Ranger captain in the critically acclaimed film "Saving Private Ryan" (1998). This honor underscores his commitment to authenticity in his roles.

8. Road to Recovery: During the filming of "Cast Away" (2000), Hanks underwent a dramatic physical transformation for his role as a marooned FedEx employee. To accurately portray his character's journey, he lost 55 pounds by following a strict diet and exercise regimen—a testament to his dedication to his craft.

9. Tech Savvy: Despite his reputation as a Hollywood veteran, Hanks keeps up with modern technology. He's active on social media platforms like Twitter and often shares candid snapshots from his life, giving fans a glimpse into his off-screen persona.

10. Ordained Minister: In a surprising twist, Hanks is ordained as a minister. He reportedly officiated at the wedding of actress Allison Williams, demonstrating his versatility even extends to performing matrimonial duties.

From his humble beginnings to his diverse talents and interests, Tom Hanks continues to captivate audiences around the world with his charm and versatility. These lesser-known facts offer a deeper insight into the man behind the iconic roles, showcasing his multifaceted personality beyond the silver screen. Whether he's delivering memorable performances or championing causes close to his heart, Hanks's influence extends far beyond Hollywood, solidifying his status as a true cinematic legend.