Tom Hanks Withdraws Oscar Nominations and Leaves U.S.: ‘I’ve Had Enough’

Tom Hanks, America’s beloved “everyman,” has officially declared he’s had enough. In a move that has left Hollywood and the nation stunned, the Oscar-winning actor announced he’s dropping all his recent Academy Award nominations and leaving the United States, citing deep disillusionment following Donald Trump’s reelection.

This isn’t the America I wanted,” Hanks stated in a teary-eyed Instagram video, sitting on what appeared to be a replica of the bench from Forrest Gump. “I’ve played heroes, explorers, and even captains, but I can’t captain this sinking ship anymore.”

Hanks was a frontrunner in this year’s Oscars race, with nominations for A Better Tomorrow, A Kind Nation, and The Last Good Man. Yet, in an unprecedented move, the actor personally requested that the Academy withdraw his nominations, calling the awards “meaningless in a country that has lost its way.”

The Academy, blindsided by Hanks’ decision, released a brief statement. “Tom Hanks has always been a pillar of integrity in the entertainment industry. While we regret his decision, we respect his stance.”

Hollywood insiders are calling Hanks’ departure the ultimate wake-up call. Long regarded as the moral compass of Tinseltown, Hanks’ exit underscores the growing unease many feel about the current state of American politics.