Tom Hanks is not sick, but he has faced some health challenges. The veteran Hollywood actor has type 2Â diabetes and, like many others, tested positive for COVID-19 during the pandemic. Fortunately, he made a swift recovery, easing the worries of his devoted fans.
What Disease Does Tom Hanks Have?
Tom Hanks has type 2 diabetes and shed light on his health struggles during a promotional tour for his movie “Elvis” back in 2013. He candidly discussed the circumstances leading to his diagnosis and the lifestyle choices that played a role in his health condition.
Hanks revealed that his journey with diabetes began with high blood sugar levels that he had been grappling with since the age of 36. During an appearance on the Late Show with David Letterman, he shared how his doctor broke the news: “You’ve got type 2 diabetes, young man.”
Despite previous warnings about his pre-diabetic state, Hanks admitted to disregarding the signs. His approach to managing the situation was minimal, thinking that removing buns from cheeseburgers would suffice. However, he soon realized the gravity of his situation, acknowledging his ignorance in an interview with Radio Times, where he referred to himself as ‘a total idiot’ for his earlier neglect.
Type 2 diabetes, affecting about 90 percent of people with diabetes, is particularly prevalent in individuals over 60. Hanks, determined to confront his diagnosis head-on, made significant lifestyle changes. His doctor advised him to attain the weight he had in his teenage years, a suggestion initially met with skepticism. Despite his initial doubts, Hanks committed to daily physical activity, ensuring at least an hour of exercise, ranging from treadmill sessions to walks or hikes with his dog.
Moreover, Hanks adopted a stringent approach to his diet, meticulously monitoring his food intake, occasionally indulging but also expressing self-reproach for such lapses. Despite the challenges, his efforts paid off, and this was evident in his noticeably slimmer appearance during the Cannes Film Festival, where he showcased his film “Elvis.”
In an interview with Radio Times in 2016, Hanks acknowledged his own contribution to his health struggles, attributing them to a combination of genetics and poor lifestyle choices. He described himself as part of the “lazy American generation” that had ignored health warnings and faced the consequences.
Does Tom Hanks have Parkinson’s Disease?
Despite rumors circulating after an incident at the movie premiere of Baz Luhrmann’s Elvis Presley biopic, Tom Hanks has not been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.
During Hanks’s speech at the premiere, he was seen gripping his microphone with both hands to steady his hand tremors. The Oscar winner for Philadelphia (1993) and Forrest Gump (1994), who plays Elvis Presley’s manager, Tom Parker, in the film, was promoting the movie in Australia’s Gold Coast, near the filming location.
Following the video clip of Hanks’s shaky hand going viral on social media, fans began to speculate about his health. Some fans expressed concern on platforms like Twitter, suggesting various possibilities ranging from nervousness to Parkinson’s disease. Others, however, defended Hanks, emphasizing the need for understanding and kindness rather than speculation about his health.
In 2020, Tom Hanks shared his harrowing battle with Covid-19. The renowned Hollywood star, along with his wife Rita Wilson, faced the deadly virus in March of that year and eventually recovered. During a virtual appearance on The Late Show, Hanks revealed the severe toll the virus took on his body, describing the experience as “bone-crushing.”
Despite both testing positive, Hanks and his wife experienced distinct symptoms. Hanks recounted his bafflement, stating, “We had no idea how it could have happened, where it could have happened.” He vividly described his physical distress, explaining, “Every time I moved, it felt like something was cracking inside me.”
Alongside this discomfort, he battled overwhelming fatigue, which he likened to having his bones crushed. Hanks, a father of four, detailed how he suffered from body aches and extreme tiredness. His weakness was so profound that he could only manage 12 minutes of a simple 30-minute workout before being completely exhausted. Fortunately, he and his wife survived
What Disease Did Tom Hanks Have in the Green Mile?
In The Green Mile, Tom Hanks portrays Paul Edgecomb, a compassionate prison guard suffering from a chronic bladder infection. Set in 1930s Louisiana, the story revolves around Edgecomb’s experiences as the commanding officer of the death row cellblock at Cold Mountain Penitentiary.
At the age of 44, while working at Cold Mountain Penitentiary, Edgecomb encounters John Coffey, a remarkable inmate with extraordinary healing abilities. Coffey not only cures Edgecomb’s long-standing bladder infection but also performs miracles like reviving the dead and healing illnesses. Throughout the narrative, Edgecomb faces challenges from sadistic guard Percy Wetmore and confronts notorious murderer William Wharton.
As the story unfolds, Edgecomb and his fellow heroes, including guard Brutal, witness Coffey’s incredible powers. Coffey heals the warden’s wife, Melinda, of cancer, displaying his innocence in the process. In the film adaptation, Coffey reveals the truth about his wrongful conviction to Edgecomb, while in the book, Edgecomb pieces together the evidence through his investigation.
Coffey’s healing touch not only cures Edgecomb’s bladder infection but also extends his life, leaving him with mixed feelings of both blessing and curse. Following Coffey’s execution, Edgecomb and Brutal leave Cold Mountain Penitentiary and work at a youth detention center. Additionally, Mr. Jingles, a mouse in the story, also experiences an extended life due to Coffey’s healing powers.
Edgecomb’s encounter with Coffey profoundly impacts his perspective on life and mortality. Despite the prolonged existence, Edgecomb grapples with the complexities of living in a world filled with suffering. Yet, he cherishes the blessing of having met Coffey, recognizing the extraordinary nature of their connection.
Was Tom Hanks Sick at the Golden Globes?
Tom Hanks graced the stage at the Golden Globes despite battling a significant cold, showcasing his humanity amid his remarkable acting career. The iconic actor, celebrated for his roles in classics like “Philadelphia” (1993) and “Forrest Gump” (1994), demonstrated his genuine nature during his acceptance speech for the Cecil B. DeMille Award.
Apologizing for his raspy voice at the beginning of his speech, Hanks humorously confessed, “I have a cold the size of Merv Griffin’s Jeopardy! royalties.” He candidly admitted to consuming numerous bright orange drinks, leading to his slightly jittery state. Mid-speech, his microphone briefly cut out, prompting him to take a step back before continuing, albeit with muffled words.
Despite his illness, Hanks delivered a heartfelt speech, expressing gratitude to his family for accompanying him on his journey in the film industry. Emotions ran high as he spoke about his loved ones, a sentiment that resonated with both him and his audience. Onstage, he fondly remembered past colleagues, such as Denzel Washington and Julia Roberts, further emphasizing the impact of relationships in his life.
Dressed impeccably in a tuxedo and Oliver Peoples glasses, Hanks graciously accepted the Cecil B. DeMille Award at the Beverly Hilton Hotel. This incident not only highlighted his resilience but also endeared him further to his fans, showcasing his down-to-earth nature despite his immense fame. Through his genuine and light-hearted approach, Hanks proved once again that he is not only a legendary actor but also a relatable and humble individual, earning admiration and respect from audiences around the world.
Where is Tom Hanks Now?
Tom Hanks currently resides in Pacific Palisades, a picturesque neighborhood nestled in Los Angeles. This iconic actor, alongside his wife Rita Wilson, has established their home in this serene locale. Hanks, at the age of 67, remains a prominent figure in Hollywood, showcasing his remarkable talent and versatility since he embarked on his professional acting journey in 1977.
The actor continues to captivate audiences with his upcoming projects, including the eagerly anticipated film “Here” scheduled for release in 2024. This drama, based on Richard McGuire’s graphic novel, promises a unique narrative that spans various time periods within a single room. The film “Here” marks a reunion of Hanks and Robin Wright on the screen after nearly three decades, reigniting the chemistry that charmed audiences in “Forrest Gump.” The film boasts a stellar cast featuring talents like Paul Bettany, Kelly Reilly, and Michelle Dockery. What sets “Here” apart is its utilization of cutting-edge technology, including de-aging and face-swapping techniques pioneered by the innovative tech company Metaphysic, poised to revolutionize the future of filmmaking.
Tom Hanks’ enduring legacy in Hollywood is exemplified by his extensive filmography. His remarkable talent has seen him share the screen with some of the industry’s finest, collaborating with luminaries such as Leonardo DiCaprio, Denzel Washington, Matt Damon, Vin Diesel, Stanley Tucci, and Catherine Zeta-Jones.
Beyond his cinematic achievements, Hanks’ financial success is reflected in his substantial net worth, exceeding $400 million. This considerable wealth, which includes the assets of his wife, Rita Wilson, affords him the opportunity to invest wisely. Despite owning multiple residences in coveted locations like Malibu, California, Sun Valley, Idaho, and even Greece, the couple’s primary abode is their opulent $26 million mansion in Pacific Palisades, a testament to their refined taste and discerning choices in real estate.
