Hollywood icon Tom Hanks has delivered a poignant tribute to former astronaut Jim Lovell, the man whose harrowing space mission inspired Hanks' unforgettable performance in the 1995 film Apollo 13.
The Oscar-winning actor spoke emotionally about Lovell's courage during the near-disastrous 1970 moon mission, which saw the spacecraft crippled by an oxygen tank explosion. "Jim represents the very best of human ingenuity and bravery," Hanks said during the commemorative event.
A Friendship Forged in Space History
Hanks revealed how his portrayal of Lovell in Ron Howard's acclaimed space drama created a lasting bond between the actor and the veteran astronaut. "Playing Jim changed my perspective on what true heroism looks like," Hanks confessed.
The tribute came as NASA prepares to mark the 55th anniversary of the Apollo 13 mission, which famously required Lovell and his crew to improvise solutions to survive their damaged spacecraft's return to Earth.
The Legacy of Apollo 13
Lovell, now 97, watched as Hanks recounted how the mission became "a testament to human resilience under pressure." The actor praised NASA's ground team and astronauts alike for turning "potential tragedy into one of space exploration's greatest triumphs."
The event also highlighted how Apollo 13 brought the drama of space exploration to millions worldwide, with Hanks noting: "Jim's story made people believe in the power of science, teamwork and cool heads in a crisis."
