Tom Hanks. Overview and main events
Overview and main events
Tom Hanks, born Thomas Jeffrey Hanks on July 9, 1956, in Concord, California, is a renowned American actor and filmmaker. Known for his versatility in both comedic and dramatic roles, Hanks has become an iconic figure in Hollywood, earning numerous accolades including two Academy Awards, seven Emmy Awards, and four Golden Globe Awards. Here is a timeline of significant events and milestones in his career:
July 9, 1956
Birth
Tom Hanks was born in Concord, California, to Janet Marylyn (née Frager) and Amos 'Bud' Hanks. His parents divorced when he was five years old, and he was raised by his father and stepmother.
1977
Early Acting Career
Hanks began performing with the Great Lakes Shakespeare Festival in Ohio. This period marked the beginning of his serious involvement in acting.
1980
Move to New York City
Hanks dropped out of college and moved to New York City to pursue a career in acting. He was cast as Kip Wilson on the sitcom "Bosom Buddies", which provided him with early exposure in the industry.
1984
Breakthrough Role in "Splash"
Hanks starred in Ron Howard's film "Splash" opposite Daryl Hannah, a role that significantly boosted his career and established him as a rising star in Hollywood.
1988
Star-Making Role in "Big"
Directed by Penny Marshall, "Big" earned Hanks his first Academy Award nomination for Best Actor and solidified his reputation as both a box-office draw and a talented actor.
1993-1994
Academy Awards for "Philadelphia" and "Forrest Gump"
Hanks won consecutive Academy Awards for Best Actor for his performances in "Philadelphia" and "Forrest Gump". This achievement made him the second actor to win back-to-back Oscars, after Spencer Tracy.
1998
Collaboration with Steven Spielberg in "Saving Private Ryan"
Hanks worked with Steven Spielberg on "Saving Private Ryan", a critically acclaimed war film that earned Spielberg his second Academy Award for direction and Hanks another Best Actor nomination.
2002
AFI Life Achievement Award
Hanks was honored with the American Film Institute's Life Achievement Award, recognizing his significant contributions to the film industry.
2014
Kennedy Center Honor
Hanks received the Kennedy Center Honor, a prestigious award that acknowledges individuals for their lifetime contributions to American culture through the performing arts.
2016
Presidential Medal of Freedom
Hanks was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Barack Obama, the highest civilian honor in the United States, for his contributions to the arts and culture.
2020
Golden Globe Cecil B. DeMille Award
Hanks received the Golden Globe Cecil B. DeMille Award, which honors outstanding contributions to the world of entertainment.
