Tom Hanks, a beloved figure in Hollywood, recently sparked curiosity about his age while discussing his latest film, “Here.” When asked by “Entertainment Tonight” if he would revisit any age he portrayed in the movie, Hanks, with his characteristic candor, revealed an age he’d rather not relive, offering insights into his perspective on aging.
Hanks, pictured at the AFI Fest 2024 premiere of “Here,” candidly discusses the challenges of portraying younger versions of himself in his new film.
“No. Look, I’m 68 years old,” Hanks stated plainly, directly answering the question of How Old Is Tom Hanks. He elaborated on the difficulties of portraying his 35-year-old self for the movie “Here,” explaining, “That time where your metabolism stops, gravity starts tearing you down, your bones start wearing off, you stand differently. I think I’m in better shape now.” This reflection provides a glimpse into Hanks’ personal experience with aging and how it contrasts with societal perceptions of youth.
His comment arose from his involvement in “Here,” a groundbreaking film directed by Robert Zemeckis, which reunites Hanks with his “Forrest Gump” director and co-star Robin Wright. The movie utilizes de-aging technology to depict Hanks and Wright as characters, Richard and Margaret, living in the same house over a century, showcasing them from their 20s and 30s through their later years.
Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson, photographed at the Academy Museum Gala, demonstrate Hanks’ active and healthy lifestyle as he approaches 70.
Despite the challenges of digitally revisiting his younger self, Hanks’ current vitality is undeniable. When the “ET” journalist remarked on how “great” he looks, Hanks attributed it to a healthy lifestyle, “Because my kids are grown up, I’m getting decent exercise and I can eat right. You can’t do that when you’re 35. Life is such a burden!” He jokingly added about managing his Type 2 diabetes, “Dude, I’m just doing what my 68-year-old, Type 2 diabetes … Just maintaining the temple, baby. That’s all I’m trying to do.” This humorous yet honest take on managing health in his late 60s resonates with many.
Interestingly, 1991, the year Hanks was 35, was a productive period in his career. He worked on iconic projects like “A League of Their Own” (released in 1992) and, shortly after, “Sleepless in Seattle” (1993), establishing himself as a leading man. Reflecting on that busy time perhaps adds another layer to why he wouldn’t choose to relive being 35 – career pressures combined with the physical changes he described.
A throwback image of Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson at a play opening in 1991, the year Hanks turned 35, a time he jokingly recalls as physically challenging in retrospect.
“Here” marks a significant reunion for Hanks, Zemeckis, and Wright, thirty years after “Forrest Gump.” Zemeckis described the film’s unique perspective to Vanity Fair, “The single perspective never changes, but everything around it does… It’s actually never been done before.” The innovative use of de-aging in “Here” allows audiences to see these actors across different ages within a single narrative, emphasizing the performances as key to the technology’s success. Zemeckis noted both Hanks and Wright embraced the challenge of channeling their younger selves, including posture and vocal energy.
Tom Hanks appearing at SiriusXM’s “Town Hall,” continues to engage actively with media and fans while promoting his projects.
The movie, also featuring Paul Bettany as Richard’s father, is described as a journey through generations, exploring universal human experiences of “love, loss, laughter and life.” Hanks’ reflection on aging, therefore, is not just a personal anecdote but also thematically linked to “Here,” a film that contemplates the passage of time and life’s ever-changing nature.
Tom Hanks in 1991 attending a “Twelfth Night” performance, representing the era when he was 35, an age he now views with humorous hindsight regarding physical well-being.
As “Here” prepares to hit theaters, Tom Hanks’ candid comments offer a relatable and humorous take on aging. While Tom Hanks’ age is currently 68, his enduring career and willingness to explore innovative projects like “Here” demonstrate a timeless quality that resonates with audiences worldwide. His perspective encourages acceptance of life’s changes and finding well-being at every stage.
