Tom Hanks sits next to actor Denzel Washington during filming of the 1993 film “Philadelphia.” ©TriStar Pictures/Courtesy Everett Collection.

In the early 80s, Hanks became a household name with his comic roles that highlighted his inherent wit and charisma. His role ...

Hanks’ great moment would come in 1993 with ‘Philadelphia’, the first film that broke the AIDS taboo. A year later, another memorable film would arrive, ‘Forrest Gump’, directed by ...

Hanks will also be awarded an honorary degree, the school said. Hanks has been nominated for an Oscar six times, winning best actor for "Philadelphia" in 1993 and "Forrest Gump" the following year.

Two-time Academy Award winning actor Tom Hanks was named the principal speaker at Harvard's commencement on May 25, the Ivy League university announced Tuesday.