Tom Hanks, the Oscar-winning actor, turns 70 on July 9, 2026. Over nearly five decades in Hollywood, Hanks has delivered some of cinema's most memorable performances, earning two consecutive Academy Awards for Best Actor and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. His frequent collaborations with directors like Steven Spielberg, Robert Zemeckis, and actors such as Meg Ryan and Tim Allen have produced iconic films.
Saving Private Ryan (1998)
In Steven Spielberg's World War II epic, Hanks played Captain John H. Miller, a U.S. Army Ranger leading a mission to save a paratrooper. His portrayal of a soldier grappling with PTSD under harrowing combat conditions earned widespread critical acclaim. The film's realistic depiction of war and Hanks' emotional depth are often cited as career highlights.
Forrest Gump (1994)
Hanks won his second Best Actor Oscar for playing Forrest Gump, a kind-hearted man from Alabama with a low IQ. Directed by Robert Zemeckis, the film follows Forrest through decades of American history. Reflecting on the role in 2019, Hanks told USA Today: "It's a really crazy, unique motion picture without a doubt. And it's a movie in which the great moments that resonate are going to change depending on when you're watching it."
Toy Story Series (1995–2019)
As the voice of Woody, the cowboy sheriff, Hanks became a beloved figure for generations. The animated franchise, starting in 1995, has grossed over $3 billion worldwide. Hanks continues to voice Woody, bringing warmth and humor to the character across four films.
Big (1988)
In this classic comedy, Hanks played Josh Baskin, a 13-year-old boy who magically becomes an adult. His performance captured the wonder and awkwardness of childhood in an adult world, earning him his first Oscar nomination. The film's iconic scenes, like the floor piano duet, remain cultural touchstones.
Cast Away (2000)
Reuniting with director Robert Zemeckis, Hanks portrayed Chuck Noland, a FedEx analyst stranded on a deserted island. The film relies almost entirely on Hanks' performance, as he interacts with a volleyball named Wilson. Hanks told the BBC: "Initially, it was fun. But then, it became exhausting, as I had no time away from the camera. Being the sole focus of the film did wear me down after a while." He lost 50 pounds for the role and earned another Oscar nomination.
Other notable performances include Philadelphia (1993), for which he won his first Oscar, Apollo 13 (1995), Saving Private Ryan (1998), and Captain Phillips (2013). Hanks' ability to embody everyman characters with extraordinary empathy continues to define his legacy.
