Tom Hanks Biography: Net Worth, Age, Height, Weight, Family, TV & Movies, and More
Tom Hanks, born on July 9, 1956, in Concord, California, is one of Hollywood’s most versatile and acclaimed actors. Known for his heartfelt performances in iconic films like Forrest Gump, Saving Private Ryan, and Cast Away, Hanks has won two Academy Awards for Best Actor. His charm, relatability, and ability to bring depth to every role have earned him a lasting place in cinematic history.
Beyond acting, Hanks is also a producer, writer, and philanthropist. Married to actress Rita Wilson since 1988, he is a devoted family man with four children. His work, both on and off-screen, reflects his genuine character and passion for storytelling, making him one of the most respected figures in the entertainment industry.
Full Name: Thomas Jeffrey Hanks
Born: July 9, 1956
Age: 68 years old (as of 2024)
Height: 6 feet (183 cm)
Weight: 190 lbs (86 kg)
Profession: Actor, Producer, Director, Writer
Net Worth: $400 million (estimated 2024)
Nationality: American
Religion: Christian (Greek Orthodox)
Zodiac Sign: Cancer
Early Life and Family Background
Tom Hanks was born on July 9, 1956, in Concord, California, to Janet Marylyn (née Frager), a hospital worker, and Amos Mefford Hanks, a cook. Hanks grew up in a modest, middle-class family and experienced a relatively difficult childhood, with his parents divorcing when he was just five years old. He has two siblings, and his father later remarried.
As a young boy, Hanks developed an interest in acting, and he started performing in his high school theater productions. This passion for acting continued into his college years at California State University, Sacramento, where he majored in drama.
Career Highlights
Tom Hanks’ career spans over four decades, making him one of Hollywood’s most beloved and influential actors. After moving to New York in the late 1970s, Hanks began his acting career in theater and television. His first major role was in the 1984 TV series Bosom Buddies, which gained him some recognition.
However, it was in the late 1980s and early 1990s that Hanks truly broke into mainstream success with films like Big (1988), A League of Their Own (1992), and Sleepless in Seattle (1993). His role in Big earned him his first Academy Award nomination, and his performances quickly established him as one of the most talented actors in Hollywood.
In 1994, Hanks starred in the iconic film Forrest Gump, which became a cultural phenomenon and earned him his first Academy Award for Best Actor. He would go on to win a second consecutive Oscar for his role in Philadelphia (1993), making him the first actor in nearly 50 years to win back-to-back Best Actor awards.
Hanks continued to dominate Hollywood with memorable performances in Saving Private Ryan (1998), The Green Mile (1999), and Cast Away (2000). He also voiced the beloved character Woody in the Toy Story series (1995–2019), a role that endeared him to generations of fans.
Beyond acting, Hanks has proven his versatility as a producer and director. He served as an executive producer on Band of Brothers (2001) and The Pacific (2010), two acclaimed World War II miniseries. He also directed films such as That Thing You Do! (1996) and Larry Crowne (2011).
Net Worth
As of 2024, Tom Hanks has an estimated net worth of $400 million. His fortune has been built through his iconic acting roles, producing, and directing work. Hanks is one of Hollywood’s most consistent box-office stars, earning significant sums for both his film and TV projects. His involvement in the Toy Story franchise and other ventures has further boosted his financial success.
Personal Life: Family, Wife, and Children
Wife: Rita Wilson
Tom Hanks married actress and producer Rita Wilson in 1988. The two met while filming the 1985 movie Volunteers and quickly became one of Hollywood’s most enduring couples. They share two sons together, Chester “Chet” Hanks and Truman Hanks. Their relationship has been one of the most stable in Hollywood, with the pair often seen supporting each other’s career endeavors.
Children:
- Colin Hanks (born November 24, 1977) – Tom’s son from his first marriage to actress Samantha Lewes. Colin is an actor and producer, known for his roles in Fargo, Dexter, and The House Bunny.
- Chester “Chet” Hanks (born August 4, 1990) – The second son of Tom and Rita, Chet has pursued a career in acting and music, though he has attracted attention for his controversial public persona.
- Truman Hanks (born December 26, 1995) – The youngest son, Truman has largely kept out of the public spotlight but has made appearances in a few of his father’s projects.
Grandchildren:
Tom Hanks is also a proud grandfather. His son Colin Hanks has two children, making Tom a grandfather and a doting family man.
TV Shows and Movies
Tom Hanks has had a prolific career in both TV and film. Here are some of his most notable projects:
Movies:
- Forrest Gump (1994) – Hanks won an Academy Award for his portrayal of Forrest, a kind-hearted man who unexpectedly influences the course of history.
- Cast Away (2000) – A transformative role in which Hanks plays a man stranded on a deserted island, earning another Academy Award nomination.
- Saving Private Ryan (1998) – A critically acclaimed war drama directed by Steven Spielberg, where Hanks stars as a World War II captain on a mission to save a soldier.
- Toy Story Series (1995-2019) – Voicing Woody, Hanks’ role in the Toy Story franchise has made him a favorite among children and families.
- The Green Mile (1999) – A supernatural drama in which Hanks plays a prison guard who encounters a death row inmate with extraordinary abilities.
- The Terminal (2004) – Hanks plays a man from a fictional Eastern European country who is stranded in New York’s JFK Airport.
- A League of Their Own (1992) – A heartwarming sports comedy-drama where Hanks stars as a coach in the first women’s professional baseball league.
TV:
- Bosom Buddies (1980-1982) – Hanks’ first major TV series where he starred as one of two men who disguise themselves as women to live in an all-female apartment building.
- Band of Brothers (2001) – A World War II miniseries produced by Hanks and Steven Spielberg, which won multiple awards and was highly acclaimed for its portrayal of soldiers during the war.
- The Pacific (2010) – A companion miniseries to Band of Brothers, also produced by Hanks and Spielberg, this series follows Marines during the Pacific campaign of World War II.
Physical Stats: Height, Weight, and Health
Tom Hanks stands at 6 feet (183 cm) tall and maintains a healthy weight of approximately 190 lbs (86 kg). Hanks is known for his everyman persona and natural charm, both of which have helped him remain a favorite among fans throughout his long career. His weight has fluctuated in the past for specific movie roles, most notably for Cast Away, where he famously lost a significant amount of weight for his portrayal of a man stranded on an island.
Philanthropy and Social Contributions
Tom Hanks is known for his generous spirit and philanthropic endeavors. He has supported numerous causes over the years, including cancer research, AIDS awareness, and programs for homeless children. Hanks is also an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and has worked closely with organizations like the American Cancer Society.
In 2020, Hanks and his wife, Rita Wilson, tested positive for COVID-19 while in Australia, and their openness about the experience helped raise awareness about the pandemic.
Awards and Recognition
Tom Hanks’ career has earned him numerous accolades, including:
- 2 Academy Awards for Best Actor (for Philadelphia and Forrest Gump)
- 6 Golden Globe Awards
- 2 BAFTA Awards
- 4 Screen Actors Guild Awards
- Presidential Medal of Freedom – Awarded by President Joe Biden in 2022
Hanks’ awards reflect his incredible contributions to the film industry and his longstanding influence on pop culture.
FAQs About Tom Hanks
- Why is Tom Hanks so famous?
Tom Hanks is famous for his versatility and remarkable performances in iconic films such as Forrest Gump, Saving Private Ryan, Cast Away, and Toy Story. His ability to connect emotionally with audiences and portray deeply relatable characters has made him a beloved figure in Hollywood. He has also won two Academy Awards for Best Actor and has been a consistent box-office star over four decades. - What is Tom Hanks’ religion?
Tom Hanks is a Christian and follows the Greek Orthodox faith. His religious beliefs are an important part of his personal life. - How do you describe Tom Hanks?
Tom Hanks can be described as a warm, genuine, and humble person both on and off the screen. He is known for his everyman persona, relatable characters, and philanthropy. Hanks’ charm and likability, combined with his talent for portraying complex characters, have made him a beloved figure in both the entertainment industry and among the general public. - What happened to Tom Hanks’ first wife?
Tom Hanks’ first wife was actress Samantha Lewes, whom he married in 1978. They had two children together, Colin and Elizabeth. However, the couple divorced in 1987. Samantha Lewes passed away from cancer in 2002 at the age of 49, several years after their divorce. - What is Tom Hanks’ net worth in 2024?
As of 2024, Tom Hanks has an estimated net worth of $400 million. His wealth is the result of his highly successful career as an actor, producer, and director, with earnings from both film and television projects, as well as his involvement in the Toy Story franchise. - How old is Tom Hanks?
Tom Hanks was born on July 9, 1956. As of 2024, he is 68 years old. - What are some of Tom Hanks’ most famous movies?
Some of Tom Hanks’ most famous movies include Forrest Gump (1994), Cast Away (2000), Saving Private Ryan (1998), Toy Story (1995–2019), The Green Mile (1999), and A League of Their Own (1992). These roles have earned him critical acclaim and solidified his place in Hollywood history. - Who is Tom Hanks married to?
Tom Hanks is married to actress and producer Rita Wilson. The two met while filming the 1985 movie Volunteers and married in 1988. They have two sons together: Chester “Chet” Hanks and Truman Hanks. - What awards has Tom Hanks won?
Tom Hanks has won numerous prestigious awards, including two Academy Awards for Best Actor (for Philadelphia and Forrest Gump), six Golden Globe Awards, two BAFTA Awards, and four Screen Actors Guild Awards. He also received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2022. - What charitable causes does Tom Hanks support?
Tom Hanks is known for his philanthropy and has supported causes such as cancer research, AIDS awareness, and programs for homeless children. He is also an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and has worked with the American Cancer Society. His charitable efforts reflect his commitment to making a positive impact on society.
Conclusion
Tom Hanks is not only one of the most talented actors of his generation but also one of the most beloved. His remarkable career, which spans four decades, includes iconic films, a strong family life, and a deep commitment to charitable causes. With a net worth of $400 million and an enduring legacy, Tom Hanks is a true Hollywood legend who continues to win hearts worldwide with his performances, philanthropy, and personal charm.