What Happened to Tom Hanks?

Tom Hanks, a two-time Academy Award winner and widely regarded American cultural icon, continues to be a prominent figure in Hollywood, demonstrating remarkable longevity and versatility in his career. As of April 2026, his professional life is marked by a diverse array of projects spanning film, television, and voice acting, alongside notable personal appearances.

One of his most anticipated upcoming roles is in 'The Comebacker,' a new baseball-themed drama based on a short story by Dave Eggers. Hanks is slated to play an aging sportswriter in the film, which will be directed by Marielle Heller, marking a reunion for the two after their collaboration on 'A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood.' The project, announced in March 2026, is generating significant industry buzz, with potential co-stars like Bad Bunny and Colman Domingo being considered.

Hanks is also deeply involved in the sequel to his 2020 Apple TV+ war film, 'Greyhound.' Titled 'Greyhound 2,' production began in early 2026 in Australia. He not only reprises his role as Commander Ernest Krause but also wrote the screenplay, expanding the narrative beyond the Atlantic battles to the Pacific Theater. This highlights his continued engagement in both acting and screenwriting, a testament to his multifaceted talent.

In the realm of animation, Hanks is set to return as the beloved voice of Woody in 'Toy Story 5,' which is currently in post-production and scheduled for a June 19, 2026 release. Furthermore, he is the host and narrator of a 20-episode historical series, 'World War II with Tom Hanks,' which will premiere on The HISTORY Channel on May 25, 2026. A special screening of the premiere is planned for May 20, 2026, at the National World War II Museum. Another significant film project, 'Lincoln in the Bardo,' where Hanks portrays Abraham Lincoln, has wrapped filming.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Hanks maintains an active personal life. Most recently, on April 25, 2026, he was seen supporting his son, Chet Hanks, at the Stagecoach music festival. His wife, Rita Wilson, also made headlines in February 2026 by attending the Grammy Awards with their granddaughter, Olivia Hanks, and in April 2026, she publicly shared a surprising family secret about her father's past. While his career continues to thrive, Hanks has also faced public scrutiny, with reports in early 2026 discussing his alleged deletion of 'Epstein comments' and cancellation of political appearances amidst the release of Jeffrey Epstein files. Despite these challenges, Hanks remains a highly respected and sought-after talent, consistently taking on diverse and impactful roles that solidify his legacy in cinematic history. His 2021 sci-fi film 'Finch' also experienced a resurgence in global viewership in April 2026, demonstrating the lasting appeal of his work.