# Tom Hanks
**Full Name:** Thomas Jeffrey Hanks
**Date of Birth:** July 9, 1956
**Birthplace:** Concord, California, USA
**Occupation:** Actor, Filmmaker
## Early Life and Education
Tom Hanks was born and raised in California, and his childhood was marked by a passion for acting. He attended California State University, Sacramento, where he studied theater and fine arts. Hanks's early experiences in community theater laid the foundation for his future career in acting.
## Early Acting Career
Tom Hanks started his professional acting career in the late 1970s with roles in television shows like "The Love Boat" and "Bosom Buddies." However, it was his breakout role in the comedy series "Family Ties" (1980–1982) that brought him wider recognition.
## Film Stardom and "Big"
Tom Hanks achieved film stardom with the fantasy comedy "Big" (1988), where his performance as a child in an adult's body earned him widespread acclaim. The success of "Big" marked a turning point in Hanks's career, leading to a string of iconic roles in the 1990s.
## Iconic Roles in the 1990s
The 1990s were a defining decade for Tom Hanks, with critically acclaimed performances in films like "A League of Their Own" (1992), "Sleepless in Seattle" (1993), and "Philadelphia" (1993). His portrayal of a lawyer diagnosed with AIDS in "Philadelphia" earned him the Academy Award for Best Actor.
## Academy Awards and "Forrest Gump"
Tom Hanks made history by winning back-to-back Academy Awards for Best Actor. The first was for his role in "Philadelphia" (1993), and the second for his iconic portrayal of Forrest Gump in the film "Forrest Gump" (1994). "Forrest Gump" became a cultural phenomenon and further solidified Hanks's status as a Hollywood A-lister.
## Collaboration with Steven Spielberg
Tom Hanks has had a longstanding collaboration with director Steven Spielberg. Their partnership has resulted in acclaimed films such as "Saving Private Ryan" (1998), "Catch Me If You Can" (2002), "The Terminal" (2004), and "Bridge of Spies" (2015).
## Broad Range of Roles
Known for his versatility, Tom Hanks has successfully navigated various genres, from drama and romance to comedy and thrillers. His filmography includes beloved classics such as "Toy Story" (1995) and its sequels, where he voices the character Woody, as well as dramatic roles in films like "Cast Away" (2000) and "Captain Phillips" (2013).
## Philanthropy and Social Causes
Tom Hanks is actively involved in philanthropy and social causes. He has supported organizations dedicated to children's health, veterans, and disaster relief efforts. Hanks's contributions to humanitarian causes reflect his commitment to making a positive impact beyond the entertainment industry.
## Later Career and Recent Projects
In recent years, Tom Hanks continues to be a prolific actor with roles in films like "Sully" (2016), "The Post" (2017), and "A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood" (2019), where he portrayed Fred Rogers. Hanks's enduring popularity is evident in his ability to captivate audiences across generations.
## Personal Life
Tom Hanks has been married to actress and producer Rita Wilson since 1988. The couple has two sons. Hanks is known for his down-to-earth demeanor, humility, and enduring professionalism in the entertainment industry.
## Legacy
Tom Hanks's legacy in Hollywood is characterized by his extraordinary talent, diverse range of roles, and contributions to both film and television. Often regarded as one of the greatest actors of his generation, Hanks's impact on popular culture and his reputation as a beloved and respected figure in the industry have solidified his enduring legacy.
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