Why Tom Hanks Calls 35 the Toughest Age and Embraces Being in ‘Better Shape’ at 68

At 68, Tom Hanks isn’t looking to relive his 30s. The iconic actor, currently starring in Robert Zemeckis’ latest film Here, shared some candid insights on aging, health, and his current perspective on life during a recent interview with Entertainment Tonight. Known for his enduring charm and versatile performances, Hanks has portrayed a range of ages in his long career — but he recently revealed that his 30s were perhaps his least favorite. “I’m 68 years old, and I wouldn’t want to go back to being 35,” he explained, adding that his lifestyle now is healthier and more balanced than ever before.

The Role of Age and De-Aging Technology in Here

In Here, Hanks collaborates once again with Zemeckis, the director of Forrest Gump, to bring to life a unique narrative centered in a single room that witnesses the lives of multiple generations. The film’s ambitious storytelling required Hanks and co-star Robin Wright to appear at different stages of life, from their 30s to old age. For these transformations, Zemeckis used advanced AI technology from Metaphysic, which allowed the actors to appear younger on screen in real-time, without extensive post-production work. This tool enabled Hanks to portray a younger version of himself convincingly but also sparked a reflection on the passage of time and the physical demands associated with different stages of life.(GQUPROXXThe Independent.)

Why 35 Was “The Hardest”

When asked if there was a particular age he’d like to experience again, Hanks was quick to dismiss the notion of reliving his 30s. “The hardest part was playing 35,” he admitted, referencing both his experience on Here and his own memories of that period in life. For Hanks, the physical changes that begin around this age — from a slowing metabolism to the onset of joint stiffness and other signs of aging — make it a challenging period. “That time where your metabolism stops, gravity starts tearing you down, your bones start wearing off, you stand differently,” he reflected. This sense of physical decline was both a challenge for the character portrayal in Here and a personal truth for Hanks.

Healthier and Happier at 68

One of the reasons Hanks feels “in better shape now” is his healthier lifestyle. Hanks credits his current well-being to regular exercise, a balanced diet, and the freedom that comes with his children being grown. “You can’t do that when you’re 35. Life is such a burden!” he told Entertainment Tonight, joking about the daily stresses younger adults face while balancing career and family responsibilities. With type 2 diabetes, Hanks is also focused on “maintaining the temple,” as he humorously phrased it, emphasizing how careful he is with his health.

Reflections on Youth and Technology in Hollywood

Reflecting on the de-aging technology that allowed him to appear 35 again in Here, Hanks confessed it was “great to look young again,” but noted that being young comes with its own challenges. Unlike the digital version of his younger self, Hanks is content with the perspective and self-assurance that come with age. “It’s not great to be young again,” he told PEOPLE. The actor, who has often spoken about the benefits of aging, seems to appreciate the wisdom and stability that come with his years. “I’d rather be as old as I am,” he concluded, emphasizing that for him, the present is more fulfilling than the past.

A New Age of Filmmaking

The use of AI technology in Here represents a significant leap forward in Hollywood’s ability to bring complex, multi-generational stories to life. Director Robert Zemeckis described the film’s plot as something only achievable through such tools, saying, “The film simply wouldn’t work without our actors seamlessly transforming into younger versions of themselves.” With such tools at hand, actors like Hanks can explore narratives that span decades, blending reality and fiction in unprecedented ways. But Hanks’ experience with de-aging also brought a personal reflection: even if technology can restore youth on screen, he remains firmly rooted in his appreciation of where he is in life.

As Here hits theaters, fans are not only getting a glimpse of Hanks’ character’s life journey but also insight into Hanks’ own journey with age and health. The actor’s grounded approach to life and commitment to his well-being shine through, reminding us that, in Hanks’ own words, age is “just a number” — and sometimes, getting older brings more happiness than turning back the clock ever could.