Acting legend Tom Hanks expressed interest in playing a role in aMarvel Studiosproject. The two-time Oscar winner has never appeared in an MCU film or show before, despite starring in all types of projects, including big Hollywood blockbusters.
In response to the assumption thatMarvel Studioshad presented him with an opportunity for a role at some point, Hanks said no such offer has ever been made. Hanks then went on to express his interest in a Marvel Studios role by bringing up an interesting point about the superhero franchise’s market dominance.
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During an interview on theHappy Sad Confusedpodcast, Hanks compared the overwhelming popularity of the Marvel Cinematic Universe franchise tothe popularity of Western filmsin the 1950s and ’60s. “You can maybe say that the John Ford universe of Westerns is not that different, perhaps, than the Marvel universe of motion pictures,” Hanks said. The actor went on to ask, “If it’s a bodacious John Ford Western, would you do it?” Moments later, Hanks answered his own question, saying, “You might do that.” Clearly, Hanks is implying that if the right opportunity presented itself, he would be open to a role.
Hanks also expressed his admiration forthe actors in the MCU. “Look, I haven’t seen [every MCU movie]. I’ll give you that right now,” Hanks said, “but the ones I’ve seen I’ve never come away from [them] without thinking, ‘There are a couple of great performances in there. Man, those people really gave their all.'” It seems that Hanks is not only open to an MCU role at some point in the future but also respects the actors currently involved in the MCU and would be excited to work alongside them.
The question becomes: what role in the MCU would fit Hanks? Thankfully, there are lots of options to choose from, since Marvel Studios has a number of projects that are expected to be released in the next few years. Phase five of the MCU is expected to begin in 2023, with 3 films currently in post-production and 3 films in pre-production. This means that there are still opportunities for Hanks to be offered a role for the films currently in pre-production, such asBlade,Captain America: New World Order,andThunderbolts.If none of the roles in those films suit Hanks, there are plenty of additional MCU films and TV shows still in development for years to come.
Regardless of what role Hanks plays, his acting pedigree would greatly benefit any Marvel Studios movie or show he appears in. Hanks’ legendary career spans 45 years, where he has starred in a number of classic films includingThe Green Mile,Forrest Gump,and Saving Private Ryan, along with many others. In addition to his Oscar wins, Hanks has received 53 total awards for acting, 7 Emmy Awards, and 4 Golden Globes. His wide range of acting abilities and veteran presence would make him a shoo-in to joinestablished MCU actors like Benedict Cumberbatch, Tom Hiddleston, and Chris Hemsworth. Hopefully, someone atMarvel Studioswill respond to Hank’s interest and make him an offer he can’t refuse.