We all love Tom Hanks, right? He’s the guy who could make you cry over a volleyball or convince you there’s no place like home while stranded on a desert island. But beyond those heartwarming roles, Hanks is also a box office juggernaut. Let’s break down his biggest hits and see what makes them successful.
Key Takeaways
- Voiceover King: It’s no coincidence that many of Hanks’ top earners are animated films. That comforting voice is box office gold.
- History Buff: Hanks is drawn to roles set against significant historical events, and audiences love it, too.
- Collaborator Power: Working with directors like Steven Spielberg and Ron Howard repeatedly proves a winning formula.
Hanks’ Top Ten at the Box Office
10. The Polar Express (2004)
Global Box Office: $315 Million
This visually stunning animated Christmas film has Hanks playing multiple roles, proving his versatility and that iconic voice’s enduring appeal.
9. Apollo 13 (1995)
Global Box Office: $355.2 Million
The true story of a failed moon mission turned into a gripping tale of survival in space. Hanks plays astronaut Jim Lovell with his signature blend of grounded heroism and quiet determination.
8. Cast Away (2000)
Global Box Office: $429.6 Million
Hanks’ transformative performance as a man stranded alone on an island is almost a one-person show. It’s a testament to his ability to carry an entire film.
7. Saving Private Ryan (1998)
Global Box Office: $482.3 Million
This Spielberg-directed WWII epic is unflinching and gut-wrenching. Hanks’ portrayal of a battle-hardened yet compassionate Army Captain earned him critical acclaim.
6. Angels & Demons (2009)
Global Box Office: $485.9 Million
A follow-up to ‘The Da Vinci Code,’ this time, Hanks’ symbologist races through Rome to stop a plot against the Vatican—more action, more intrigue, and, of course, more box office success.
5. Toy Story 2 (1999)
Global Box Office: $497.3 Million
The first sequel proved even more successful than the original. Hanks’ warmth as Woody shines even brighter when faced with tough choices about loyalty and friendship.
4. Forrest Gump (1994)
Global Box Office: $678.2 Million
One of the most quotable films ever, Tom Hanks’ portrayal of the simple yet profoundly wise Forrest is iconic. The film’s sweep through American history gives it a timeless appeal.
3. The Da Vinci Code (2006)
Global Box Office: $760 Million
This adaptation of Dan Brown’s mega-bestseller was always going to be huge. Hanks anchors the thriller as a symbologist caught in a whirlwind of conspiracies and ancient mysteries.
2. Toy Story 3 (2010)
Global Box Office: $1.06 Billion
The bittersweet ending to the Toy Story trilogy (or so we thought!) showed the franchise’s staying power. With Andy off to college, Hanks brought genuine pathos as Woody faced the uncertainty of what would come next.
1. Toy Story 4 (2019)
Global Box Office: $1.07 Billion
The return of Woody, Buzz, and the gang, nine years after we thought their story ended, was still a smash hit. Hanks brings the perfect mix of humor and genuine emotion as our favorite cowboy doll.
Tom Hanks’s Net Worth
Tom Hanks, one of Hollywood’s most beloved and successful actors, has amassed a staggering net worth. Tom Hanks’s net worth is estimated to be $400 million. His career earnings at the domestic box office exceed $4.6 billion, with global earnings nearing $9.7 billion. This consistent box office dominance makes him among the world’s highest-earning actors. Hanks’s wealth stems from his acting career, lucrative endorsements, and savvy brand partnerships.