In a shocking turn of events that has sent ripples through Hollywood and beyond, Tom Hanks, the two-time Academy Award-winning actor beloved by generations, has announced his withdrawal from all current Oscar nominations.

The 69-year-old star, known for iconic roles in films like Forrest Gump and Cast Away, cited profound disillusionment with the state of American politics as the driving force behind his decision.

Speaking from what appeared to be a quiet coastal retreat, Hanks delivered a heartfelt message that has left fans and industry insiders reeling.

Hanks’ statement came via a poignant Instagram video posted late Wednesday evening, where he sat on a weathered wooden bench reminiscent of his famous Forrest Gump scene. With tears welling in his eyes, he declared, “I’ve had enough.

This isn’t the America I fought to portray in my stories—the one built on hope, kindness, and unity.

After the recent election results, I can no longer in good conscience participate in a system that feels so divided.” The video, which has garnered over 10 million views in under 24 hours, ends with Hanks packing a simple suitcase, symbolizing his imminent departure from the U.S.

The timing of Hanks’ announcement is particularly striking, coinciding with the buzz around the 2025 Oscar nominations, set to be revealed on January 17.

Hanks was widely tipped as a frontrunner for Best Actor nods in three major releases this year: A Better Tomorrow, a gritty drama about redemption in post-war America; A Kind Nation, a heartfelt ensemble piece exploring immigration struggles; and The Last Good Man, a thriller delving into political corruption.

Sources close to the actor confirm he personally contacted the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences to request the withdrawal of his name from all categories, a move unprecedented in the awards’ nearly century-long history.

The Academy responded swiftly with a terse statement: “Tom Hanks has always been a pillar of integrity in the entertainment industry. We respect his personal choices, though we are deeply saddened by this development.

His contributions to cinema remain unparalleled.” Industry analysts speculate that this could disrupt the awards season, as Hanks’ films were expected to dominate the conversation.

Producers of A Better Tomorrow, directed by close collaborator Steven Spielberg, expressed devastation, noting that reshoots or promotional efforts might now falter without their star’s endorsement.

Hanks’ frustration stems from a culmination of political tensions exacerbated by Donald Trump’s reelection in November 2024. The actor, a longtime Democrat supporter, had been vocal during the campaign, hosting fundraisers for Kamala Harris and narrating documentaries highlighting democratic erosion.

In recent interviews, he lamented the rise of misinformation, hate speech, and cultural polarization, themes he wove into his latest projects. “I’ve played heroes who overcome impossible odds,” Hanks said in the video, “but how can I pretend when the real world feels like the villain in my scripts?”

This isn’t the first time Hanks has clashed with conservative elements. His 2020 COVID-19 diagnosis and subsequent advocacy for public health measures drew ire from right-wing commentators. More recently, his Greek heritage—shared with wife Rita Wilson, who holds dual citizenship—has fueled speculation about relocation.

Insiders reveal the couple has been quietly scouting properties in Athens and on the island of Antiparos, where they own a vacation home. “Greece represents a fresh start,” a family friend told reporters, “a place where history and humanity coexist without the daily barrage of division.”

Hanks’ exit has ignited a firestorm on social media, with hashtags like #TomHanksLeaves and #HollywoodExile trending worldwide. Fans expressed heartbreak, with one viral tweet reading, “Tom Hanks was the glue holding America’s feel-good stories together.

Who will play the everyman now?” Celebrities rallied in support: Meryl Streep, his co-star in multiple films, posted, “Tom, your heart is as big as your talent.

Wherever you go, take the light with you.” Meanwhile, Robert De Niro, another outspoken critic of Trump, hinted at similar sentiments, though he stopped short of confirming any plans to leave.

Critics on the other side of the aisle were less sympathetic. Conservative pundit Ben Shapiro quipped on his podcast, “Goodbye, Mr. Hanks.

Maybe try acting in a country that appreciates free speech without the virtue signaling.” President-elect Trump himself weighed in on Truth Social, posting a meme of Hanks as Forrest Gump running away, captioned, “Run, Tom, run! America’s better without the lectures.” The post amassed millions of likes, underscoring the deep cultural chasm Hanks referenced in his farewell.

Beyond the immediate drama, Hanks’ decision raises broader questions about the role of artists in turbulent times. Hollywood has long been a liberal bastion, but high-profile departures could signal a larger exodus.

Reports suggest other stars, including Cher and Barbra Streisand, are considering extended stays abroad, while musicians like John Legend have voiced similar disillusionment.

For Hanks, who built a career on relatable, optimistic characters, this feels like a poignant full-circle moment—echoing the bench where Forrest waited for a bus that never symbolized escape until now.

Reflecting on his legacy, Hanks leaves behind a filmography that has grossed over $10 billion worldwide. From Philadelphia’s AIDS activist to Saving Private Ryan’s weary soldier, his portrayals often mirrored societal wounds while offering healing.

In A Kind Nation, released just months ago, Hanks played a border patrol agent grappling with empathy amid policy debates—a role that now seems eerily prophetic. “Storytelling was my way of fighting back,” he noted in past interviews, “but words alone aren’t enough when actions tear us apart.”

As details emerge, questions swirl about the practicalities. Will Hanks retain his U.S.

citizenship? How might this affect ongoing projects, like the sequel to Greyhound or his voice work in Toy Story spin-offs? Legal experts point out that withdrawing nominations doesn’t erase past wins—Hanks’ Oscars for Philadelphia and Forrest Gump remain intact—but it does forfeit potential future accolades.

The Academy, facing backlash for its own diversity controversies, may use this as a catalyst for reform, though skeptics doubt it.

Hanks’ family remains steadfast. Rita Wilson, his wife of 37 years, shared a joint statement: “We’ve built a life rooted in love and resilience. This chapter closes one door but opens many more.” Their sons, Chet and Truman, both aspiring filmmakers, echoed the sentiment, praising their father’s courage.

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis even extended a warm welcome, tweeting, “Greece opens its arms to a true philhellene. Tom, your stories will find new audiences here.”

The entertainment world braces for aftershocks. Streaming platforms, which relied on Hanks’ draw for prestige content, may see viewership dips for his nominated titles. Awards shows could pivot to international talent, boosting global representation.

Yet, for many, this feels like the loss of an era—the end of the “nice guy” archetype in a coarsening landscape.

In his final words from the video, Hanks urged unity: “Don’t let anger win. Find your bench, your story, and keep running toward light.” As he boards a flight—destination unconfirmed—the nation watches, wondering if this is goodbye or just intermission.

Tom Hanks may have left the U.S., but his influence lingers, a reminder that even heroes have limits.