Portrait · Dick Thomas Johnson / CC BY-SA 2.5

Tom Hanks

Actor, producer and filmmaker

Born 1956

Tom Hanks is an American actor and film producer born in Concord, California. He developed his craft in repertory theatre with Vincent Dowling, learning backstage work as well as performing Shakespeare. After theatre work in Cleveland, he reached television audiences through Bosom Buddies and moved into leading film comedy with Splash and Big. Philadelphia and Forrest Gump brought consecutive Academy Awards, while Apollo 13, Saving Private Ryan, The Green Mile and Cast Away expanded his dramatic career. As Woody in the Toy Story films, he became a familiar voice across generations; his Disney roles also include Walt Disney in Saving Mr. Banks. His television work extends behind the camera: Band of Brothers combined directing, producing and writing, and later producing credits include John Adams, The Pacific and Olive Kitteridge. He wrote and directed That Thing You Do!, bringing his filmmaking experience to a story about a rising band. Larry Crowne also combined acting, directing, writing and producing. His stage career includes Lucky Guy on Broadway in 2013, playing journalist Mike McAlary. He also wrote the screenplay for Greyhound and starred as its naval commander. Away from the screen, he is the author of The Making of Another Major Motion Picture Masterpiece. His earlier book, Uncommon Type, collects short stories connected by typewriters. Later screen work includes Here, reuniting him with Robert Zemeckis and Robin Wright. He returned as Woody in Toy Story 5. NBC has also announced his return as narrator for the second season of The Americas.

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Connected people

ConnectionRita WilsonSpouse, documented in Parade's relationship review.

ConnectionSteven SpielbergCollaborator on films and Band of Brothers.

ConnectionRobert ZemeckisHere reunites Hanks with the filmmaker.

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Current work, broadcasts and public milestones, each linked to the primary record used for publication.

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Latest Index

2026

NewsChecked against a primary source or trusted newsroom.

ScopeOnly attributable updates about Tom Hanks's work and public record.

Broadcast
A conversation with Barack Obama
Audible's listening guide highlights Hanks as a guest in A Great Book with Barack Obama, discussing reading and fatherhood.
24 Sept 2026Official listening guide
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Broadcast
The Americas returns
NBC renewed the nature series with Hanks returning as narrator. Its second season is announced for 2028.
30 Jun 2026NBC announcement
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Project
Woody returns
Disney lists Hanks as Woody in Toy Story 5, released June 19, 2026.
19 Jun 2026Studio release listing
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Project
Greyhound sequel in production
Production List's May update lists Hanks as writer and producer. A release date is not confirmed in that listing.
20 May 2026Dated production listing
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Project
Joining Wes Anderson's ensemble
Focus announced Hanks among The Phoenician Scheme's cast, with a May 2025 theatrical opening.
11 Feb 2025Distributor announcement
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Latest Index

A conversation with Barack Obama

The Americas returns

Woody returns

Greyhound sequel in production

Joining Wes Anderson's ensemble