Quick Read
- Tom Hanks returns as Woody in Toy Story 5, premiering July 2026.
- His classic film ‘The ‘Burbs’ is adapted into a new TV series, premiering on Peacock.
- Hanks’ portrayal in ‘Sully’ (2016) continues to be praised for realism and emotional depth.
Tom Hanks is one of Hollywood’s true mainstays—a name that conjures images of earnest heroes, comedic charm, and a kind of cinematic reliability that’s rare in today’s shifting entertainment landscape. In 2026, Hanks finds himself at the center of both new creative ventures and the continued legacy of his past work, reflecting the actor’s enduring appeal and remarkable versatility.
This year marks the return of one of Hanks’ most beloved characters: Woody, the affable sheriff from Pixar’s ‘Toy Story’ franchise. With ‘Toy Story 5’ set for a summer release, audiences old and new will hear Hanks’ unmistakable voice once again. The new installment, as reported by CityAM, doesn’t just revisit the nostalgia of childhood toys—it probes deeper, exploring how traditional playthings compete in a technology-saturated era. For Hanks, who’s voiced Woody since the first film in 1995, the role is more than mere voice acting; it’s a connection to generations who’ve grown up alongside his characters. Tim Allen reprises Buzz Lightyear, and the story promises a reflection on how even the most cherished icons must adapt to remain relevant.
But 2026 isn’t just about sequels and nostalgia for Hanks. One of his classic comedies, ‘The ‘Burbs’, is getting a fresh spin as a TV series. Nearly four decades after the original film, the show brings new faces—Keke Palmer and Jack Whitehall—as newlyweds navigating the quirky mysteries of suburban life. While Hanks isn’t starring in the series, the fact that his work inspires a modern retelling on Peacock speaks volumes about its cultural staying power, as outlined by Inland 360.
It’s worth pausing to consider how Hanks’ impact stretches beyond current projects. Take his role as Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger in the 2016 film ‘Sully’. Directed by Clint Eastwood, the movie dramatized the emergency landing of US Airways Flight 1549 on the Hudson River. Hanks’ performance, praised by critics and aviation experts alike, captured the quiet resolve of a man thrust into an extraordinary crisis. According to ScreenRant, aviation expert Rob Mark commended both the realism of the landing sequence and Hanks’ portrayal of Sully’s professional yet deeply human response to pressure. The film’s success—nearly $244 million at the box office and a Critics’ Choice nomination for Hanks—underscored his ability to embody real-life heroism without resorting to melodrama.
‘Sully’ also reveals something essential about Hanks’ acting: a capacity to make the complex seem relatable. In the movie, Sully must choose between two terrible options—landing in the water or risking a crash in a densely populated urban area. The logic is simple, yet the stakes are enormous. As Mark put it, “It’s physics. You know that’s not gonna work. And the only open area was the water.” Hanks’ performance doesn’t just depict a technical decision; it conveys the emotional gravity behind every choice, mirroring the split-second calculations that define true leadership.
The continuing resonance of Hanks’ work is apparent not just in the films and shows he headlines, but in the way his projects inspire new generations of storytellers. The upcoming TV adaptation of ‘The ‘Burbs’ is a case in point. The original film, with Hanks in the lead, was a sly satire of suburban paranoia and eccentricity—a theme that still feels relevant as neighborhoods change and new secrets emerge. By reimagining this story for television, producers are acknowledging the film’s timeless relevance and the unique comedic energy Hanks brought to the screen.
Meanwhile, ‘Toy Story 5’ offers a different kind of reflection. In a world where screens and algorithms increasingly shape childhood, Woody’s journey speaks to the emotional value of physical toys and the memories they hold. Hanks’ voice gives life to these themes, inviting audiences to consider what it means to grow up—and what we lose or retain in the process.
Hanks’ influence isn’t limited to his own performances. His work has a ripple effect, shaping how audiences and filmmakers approach stories about courage, community, and change. Whether he’s voicing a cowboy doll, depicting a real-life pilot under duress, or inspiring new takes on suburban comedy, Hanks brings an unmistakable authenticity to every role.
As 2026 unfolds, Tom Hanks remains both a touchstone and a trailblazer in entertainment. He bridges the gap between old and new, nostalgia and innovation, reminding us that the best stories are those that evolve while staying true to their emotional core. His legacy is woven into the fabric of cinema and television, and his latest projects promise to extend that influence even further.
Reviewing the facts, it’s clear that Tom Hanks’ career isn’t just about box office numbers or awards—it’s about trust. Audiences trust Hanks to deliver performances that resonate, whether they’re in animated worlds, real-life dramas, or comedic reimaginings. In an industry where trends shift quickly, Hanks stands as a rare constant: a storyteller who honors the past while inviting us to imagine new possibilities.