Honest statement
Tom Hanks on the youth phase of life: “It’s such a burden!”
Tom Hanks is 68 years old, suffers from type 2 diabetes, yet for the actor a completely different age is a burden. Which might surprise some people.
Almost every older person tells life to younger people: “There is nothing better and when you are young everything is still great.” Not Tom Hanks. During an interview he finds clear words for a phase of his life that he found extremely stressful. It’s actually a long way from where it is now.
The “hardest age” for the actor was, surprisingly, from age 35: “That’s the time when your metabolism stops, gravity starts pulling you down, your bones start wearing out, you’re in different way – I think “I’m in better shape now,” Hanks said. When the “Entertainment Tonight” reporter complimented him on the red carpet by saying he looked good, the 68-year-old explained his statement in more detail.
Tom Hanks says he’s in better shape now at 68 than he was at 35! pic.twitter.com/MidsWYP1EK
— Show tonight (@etnow) October 29, 2024
Tom Hanks has more time for himself as he gets older
“Do you know why? Since my children have grown up, I get enough exercise and can eat healthily. At 35 this is not possible. Life is a burden!”, says Tom Hanks. Even though he now has diabetes as an adult, he has more time to take care of himself. “Take care of the temple, honey, take care of the temple,” he laughs to the reporter. “That’s all I’m trying to do.”
His latest film “Here” will be released in German cinemas in December. Thematically appropriate, Tom Hanks takes the viewer on a journey through time. Tom Hanks and Robin Wright retrace different phases of their lives. You can see the actor from young to old, even at the most difficult age: 35 years old.
The portal “kino.de” describes the plot with the words: “A point on the earth through the centuries. Where one moment there are dinosaurs grazing, the next moment there is a house. To a specific chapter of history, which ahead of Although the events seem incredibly small, Richard Young (Tom Hanks) and his beloved Margaret (Robin Wright) also live here. Their story is different and yet intertwined with all the generations that came before and after them , are all shaped by love, laughter and life.”
Time.news Interview: The Burden of Youth with Tom Hanks and Health Expert Dr. Laura Green
Editor: Welcome, everyone, to Time.news! Today, we have a special treat for you. We’re joined by the beloved actor Tom Hanks, who recently made headlines with his candid remarks about the burdens of youth. Additionally, we’re pleased to have Dr. Laura Green, a health expert specializing in aging and wellness. Thank you both for being here!
Tom Hanks: Thanks for having me. It’s always great to chat about the realities of life!
Dr. Green: I’m excited to discuss this important topic. The perspectives we hold on aging and youth can really shape our experiences.
Editor: Tom, during your recent interview, you mentioned that the hardest age for you was 35. This is a surprising take, as many people celebrate youth as the best phase of life. Can you elaborate on why you feel this way?
Tom Hanks: Sure! At 35, I felt the pressure of my body starting to change. My metabolism slowed down, gravity became a real factor, and I was acutely aware of my bones wearing out. It felt different, like the carefree days of youth were slipping away. Now at 68, I see things differently. I’m actually in better shape than I was then, and I’ve learned to embrace the challenges that come with aging.
Editor: That’s a perspective many might not expect from a Hollywood icon. Dr. Green, why do you think we often romanticize youth while downplaying the struggles that come with it?
Dr. Green: It’s interesting because our culture places a high value on youthfulness. We often see a lot of media portrayals that glorify being young and vibrant, overlooking the emotional and physical pressures young people face. Tom’s experience highlights that youth isn’t just about vitality; it can also bring stress, insecurity, and the pressure to succeed, especially in a society that values achievement and beauty.
Tom Hanks: Exactly! When I look back, there were moments in my 30s and 40s where I felt immense pressure to maintain a certain image while balancing family and career. It’s refreshing to hear that others share this view.
Editor: Many older individuals tell the youth that “there’s nothing better than being young.” How can we shift this narrative toward a more balanced perspective?
Dr. Green: It starts with open dialogues like this. We need to share both the highs and lows of different life stages honestly. Yes, youth can be exciting and filled with opportunities, but it also comes with unique challenges. Emphasizing the importance of lifelong learning and growth can encourage younger generations to appreciate their current phase while also recognizing the value of growing older.
Tom Hanks: And let’s not forget that with age comes wisdom. I’ve learned so much from my experiences, and I think that perspective can be incredibly empowering.
Editor: Tom, considering your own health journey, how do you maintain your well-being as you age?
Tom Hanks: I’ve had to make adjustments—managing my type 2 diabetes, for instance, has required me to be more conscientious about my diet and exercise. But I embrace these changes. I’ve learned that staying active and engaged, both physically and mentally, is key to feeling good at any age.
Dr. Green: That’s a vital point! Physical activity, a balanced diet, and mental health care are all essential for healthy aging. It’s never too late to adopt habits that can improve overall quality of life.
Editor: Before we wrap up, what advice would each of you give to the younger generation about the burden and beauty of youth?
Tom Hanks: Embrace it, but don’t be afraid to admit when it’s tough. You’re not alone in feeling overwhelmed. Seek help, communicate, and remember that life is a journey with ups and downs.
Dr. Green: Absolutely, youth can be burdensome, but it’s also precious. Make the most of it by building resilience and learning how to cope with challenges. Prepare for the future by cultivating relationships, skills, and a positive mindset.
Editor: Thank you, Tom and Dr. Green, for this enlightening discussion. It’s clear that reflecting on the burdens of youth can lead to a healthier understanding of aging and living well at every stage of life.
Tom Hanks: Thank you for having me!
Dr. Green: Thanks! It’s been a pleasure.