Tom Hanks spotted at Villa Park - What hooked Hollywood's favourite actor to Villa's Side?

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Hollywood star and passionate fan, Tom Hanks spotted at Aston Villa for thrilling match against Liverpool FC

Hollywood star Tom Hanks was spotted at Villa Park, the home ground of Aston Villa, yesterday (13 May) during their Premier League match of the season.

The Oscar-winning actor, known for his roles in films such as “Forrest Gump” and “Saving Private Ryan”, is a well-known supporter of the club.

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A Passionate Supporter

Hanks, donning the club’s claret and blue colours, watched the match from a box at Villa Park. The actor has previously expressed his love for the team, stating, "I’m an adopted fan but I love the team as though they’re my own".

His support for Aston Villa began when he spotted their name in a list of results and thought it sounded "like a place you’d go on holiday in the summertime"

US actor Tom Hanks, applauds ahead of the English Premier League football match between Aston Villa and Liverpool at Villa Park in BirminghamUS actor Tom Hanks, applauds ahead of the English Premier League football match between Aston Villa and Liverpool at Villa Park in Birmingham
US actor Tom Hanks, applauds ahead of the English Premier League football match between Aston Villa and Liverpool at Villa Park in Birmingham | AFP via Getty Images, (Photo by BEN STANSALL/AFP via Getty Images)

A Thrilling Match

The match itself was a thrilling encounter against Liverpool FC. Aston Villa managed to come from behind to secure a 3-3 draw. Hanks could be seen cheering them on when Villa equalised in the 88th minute.

This match was particularly significant as it marked the final away game for Jurgen Klopp as manager of Liverpool.

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Mingling with Fans

In addition to watching the match, Hanks also took the time to mingle with fans at Villa Park. His presence added to the excitement of the match and added to the global appeal of the Premier League.

Tom Hanks’ visit to Villa Park adds to the growing trend of US stars showing interest in British football. This follows the full ownership of Welsh club Wrexham AFC by Hollywood actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney in February 2021 and NFL star Tom Brady’s investment in Villa’s neighbours Birmingham City.

As the season draws to a close, Aston Villa fans will be hoping for more thrilling matches and perhaps more Hollywood star sightings in the future.

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