Is he honestly that genuine and kind? Tom Hanks is one of Americaβs most popular stars, in part because he seems to darn nice. He has also avoided tabloid scandals, seems to be a hard worker, generous, kind to his children and others.Β
People set out to find out if there are any skeletons in the Oscar winnerβs closet, but it seems β¦ yep, he really is that nice. The mag interviewed friends and coworkers, and hereβs what they βfound.β
RON HOWARD
Longtime friend and collaborator,Ron Howarddirected Hanks inΒ 1984βsΒ SplashΒ and 1995βsΒ Apollo 13, claims that while heβs a nice guy, everyoneβs obsession with that diverts them from his skill as an actor.
βHeβs that good,β says Howard. βHeβs like one of those athletes who is so effortless that you donβt realize that heβs the game-changer.β
The 63-year-old told People that blending in is part of his thing.Β βI like being part of an ensemble. Anybody can make it a miserable day by being cranky or self-centered, by thinking itβs all about them instead of all about the whole.β
Howard goes on:Β βHe loves smart people saying smart things. Whether he likes what theyβre saying or not. β¦ He invites honesty from those who are close to him, not in a self-flagellating, neurotic way, but with a clear-eyed intelligence.β
JULIA ROBERTS
Julia Roberts says Hanks just oozes enthusiasm.Β
βWhat doesnβt change about Tom, he is as happy and excited as ever. About work, about friendships,β says Roberts, who costarred with him in two films. βIt doesnβt change or wane over time.β
MAURA TIERNEY
Maura Tierney, who starred with Hanks inBroadwayβsLucky GuysaysΒ βheβs not afraid to be a goofball,β adding, she would often find βlike, five selfies of Tom making goofy faces on my phone. He would take selfies if anyone left their phone lying around.β
MATTHEW RHYS
Matthew Rhys understands how grossed out everyone is by Hanksβ greatness.Β
βItβs like dear god, itβs sickening!β jokes Rhys. βI get it, youβve got the worldβs generosity and acting talent, thatβs fine, but heβs a real mind. He has a great mind, which is equally as infuriating.β
HanksβA Beautiful Day in the Neighborhoodis out now.