Tom Hanks can easily be described as one of the best actors of our time, with roles in some of the most iconic films to date. Starring in cult classic films such as Forrest Gump, Cast Away and Saving Private Ryan, he knows a thing or two about starring in a leading role.
There is no doubt that his acting has influenced many others who have followed suit, but he too must have inspirations of his own.
So, who is Hanks’ favourite actor?
He has openly spoken about his admiration for Robert Duvall, describing him as the “man who keeps entire movies together, as in The Godfather pictures” when asked if he had a favourite actor.
Now age 94, Duvall has starred in many of Hollywood’s biggest films, including To Kill a Mockingbird and Apocalypse Now, alongside The Godfather.
In an interview with Film Comment, Hanks said: “Though he’s not particularly a chameleon, it took me a long time to recognise him from one movie to another.
“He’s not unique looking – doesn’t put a hump in his back or do much more than walk a little different.”
Duvall’s versatility has made him one of the big-time players in Hollywood, just like Hanks.
On his performance in To Kill a Mockingbird, Hanks said: “As Boo Radley in To Kill a Mockingbird, he stood behind a door and communicated something worse than your worst nightmares. He made you feel sorry for him, too. To me, this is a film actor: a man who conveys so much without saying anything.”
Duvall’s most recent work includes The Pale Blue Eye and Hustle, both released in 2022.
Duvall won the Oscar award for Best Actor for his performance in Tender Mercies in 1983, he has only won a BAFTA award for Best Actor in a Supporting Role for Apocalypse Now.
Hanks’ latest upcoming project is The Phoenician Scheme, Wes Anderson’s most recent film, which will be released later this month on May 23.