As he accepted an honorary degree from Harvard University, Tom Hanks was presented with a volleyball as a tribute to his ‘Castaway’ co-star, Wilson.
The Hollywood actor addressed more than 9,000 Harvard graduates at the institution’s 372nd commencement ceremony on Thursday (25.05.23) as he received an honorary doctor of arts degree. He was introduced by outgoing Harvard President Lawrence Bacow, who presented him with a Wilson ball similar to the one featured in his 2000 survival film.
Hanks held the ball aloft before delivering his speech, in which he made light of his lack of academic credentials and referenced the fictitious Harvard professor Robert Langdon he portrayed in three films based on Dan Brown’s novels.
The actor told the audience, “It’s unfair, but please don’t be angry about it.
“Now, without having done a lick of work, without having spent any time in class, and without ever having set foot in that library – in order to have anything to do with the Harvard graduating class, its faculty, or its illustrious alumni – I make a darned fine livelihood portraying someone who did. Children, this is the way of the world.”
In his speech to the graduates, Hanks also discussed truth and disinformation, warning them of the perils that exist in the world.
He stated, “For some, the truth is no longer empirical. It is no longer founded on facts, common logic, or even decency. No longer is telling the truth the standard for public service. It is no longer a remedy for our anxieties or a guide for our actions. Truth is currently regarded as malleable, based on opinion and zero-sum outcomes.
“All adults must choose between three categories of Americans: those who embrace liberty and freedom for all, those who will not, and those who are indifferent.
“Only the first work to create a more ideal union, an indivisible nation. The others are obstacles.”