Tom Hanks‘ guest appearance on Saturday Night Live this past weekend sparked fresh concerns about the actor’s health after viewers noticed visible trembling in his hands during the broadcast. The beloved 68-year-old actor joined the episode, hosted by Martin Short, alongside fellow stars Scarlett Johansson, Paul Rudd, and John Mulaney, as part of a recurring Five-Timers Club skit.
Several fans took to social media to express their worries. Under a promotional post on SNL’s Instagram, one user wrote, “Is Tom Hanks’ hand shaking?” Others chimed in, with comments such as, “I noticed it too! And now I’m concerned.”
This is not the first time Hanks’ hand tremors have drawn public attention. In June 2022, while promoting Baz Luhrmann’s Elvis movie in Australia, footage showed Hanks’ right hand trembling uncontrollably while holding a microphone. Medical experts at the time speculated that the shaking could be an early sign of Parkinson’s disease, though no formal diagnosis has ever been confirmed.
Speculations about Hanks’ tremors
Dr. Stuart Fischer, a Yale-trained physician, told DailyMail.com last year that the visible shaking could potentially point to Parkinson’s disease or essential tremors. Essential tremors, often exacerbated by anxiety or stress, are less likely to occur at Hanks’ age, making Parkinson’s a more common consideration for physicians.
However, other medical experts have pointed out that tremors can have a variety of causes. Dr. Robert H. Eckel, a board member of the American Diabetes Association, suggested that shaky hands could also result from hypoglycemia—a potential issue for individuals like Hanks who have type 2 diabetes.
Past health concerns
Hanks has been open about his health struggles in the past, particularly his battle with type 2 diabetes, which he was diagnosed with in 2013. However, experts have largely ruled out a direct link between his diabetes or his prior bout with COVID-19 and the tremors.
A Hollywood icon under the spotlight
Despite health concerns, Hanks continues to maintain an active career. His recent film Here, directed by Robert Zemeckis, has also drawn attention, albeit for different reasons. The movie’s use of advanced de-aging technology has stirred controversy, with fellow actress Lisa Kudrow criticizing its reliance on AI and its potential impact on the entertainment industry.
Fans remain supportive of the Forrest Gump and Saving Private Ryan actor, hoping for clarification on his health as his representatives have yet to comment publicly.
For now, concerns linger as fans continue to celebrate Hanks’ enduring legacy while wishing him well.
