Tom Hanks Shares Why He Thinks 35 Is the ‘Toughest Age’

In a recent interview with Entertainment Tonight, legendary actor Tom Hanks shared some candid thoughts about his past, revealing he has little desire to revisit his 30s. While discussing his new film Here, in which he plays characters at various ages thanks to de-aging technology, the 68-year-old Oscar winner reflected on that particular phase of life, calling it “not a great period.”

When asked if there was a specific age he enjoyed portraying in the film, Hanks replied with a definitive “No.” He explained that, if anything, revisiting his 30s was challenging. “Look, I’m 68 years old; the hardest for us was when we were playing 35,” he said. He elaborated on the physical struggles he faced at that age, saying, “That time when your metabolism stops, gravity starts tearing you down, your bones start wearing off. You stand differently.”

Hanks, known for his roles in classics like Forrest Gump and The Terminal, expressed gratitude for his current stage of life, noting that he feels he’s “in better shape now.” He attributes his well-being to a simpler, healthier lifestyle made possible by having more control over his routine. “You know why? Because my kids are grown up, I’m getting decent exercise, and I can eat right,” he shared. “You can’t do that when you’re 35. Life is such a burden!”

The actor’s reflections offer a rare glimpse into his perspective on aging, health, and the balance that comes with life’s later years. Many fans may be surprised by Hanks’ feelings about his 30s, as that decade marked his rise to international fame with roles in hit films like Big and Philadelphia. Yet, Hanks’ comments suggest that the demands of that period came with challenges, both physically and personally.

Here, Hanks stars alongside Robin Wright, exploring themes of time and memory. The film, which makes use of advanced de-aging technology, allows both actors to portray characters across several decades. The storyline and technology-enabled Hanks to reflect on his own experiences at different stages in life, particularly the lessons he’s learned about health and balance over the years.

Hanks’ latest role and his insights on aging resonate with his approach to life off-screen. The actor has been open about prioritizing health after his diabetes diagnosis in 2013, making lifestyle changes, and becoming more mindful about fitness and diet. His perspective underscores a commitment to self-care that he finds easier to manage at 68 than he did at 35.

For audiences, Hanks’ reflections offer both nostalgia and wisdom, showing that while fame may bring opportunity, life’s various stages present unique challenges. The actor’s thoughts on aging add a poignant layer to his role in Here, a film now showing in cinemas worldwide, reminding fans that, sometimes, the best years come later in life.