Tom Hanks is one of the rare Hollywood stars that has transcended the decades and turned into an icon, but remains loved by film critics, colleagues, and virtually anyone. The star of Forrest Gump and Saving Private Ryan has also been known for his genuine interest in connecting with people.
The stories of fans meeting Hanks in the streets, restaurants, and anywhere, really, are treasured like tales that take on a life of their own on social media. Read about the stories of people encountering Hanks in real life in Bored Panda's previous article right here. Many lucky fans stressed that Hanks’ magic has to do with what a down-to-earth and simple guy he really is.
Hanks' down-to-earthness also explains why he was named America's Dad. According to Esquire, which first presented Hanks in a dad persona for their 2016 cover, “Hanks' star persona has always depended on his ability to embody the white Americana spirit the Esquire spread referenced; it only makes sense that he'd come to also embrace the image of the All-American Dad on-screen.”
In fact, “It strikes one as the only logical next step for the actor in his third decade as a Hollywood leading man.” Moreover, Esquire emphasizes that “Hanks' recent roles have made the righteous and saintly father the latest iteration of the Everyman mode that made him a star.” This was especially apparent in his portrayal of Walt Disney in the 2013 film Saving Mr. Banks.
