Tom Hanks' Journey with Elvis: Discovering 'I'm Comin' Home

Tom Hanks' Journey with Elvis: Discovering 'I'm Comin' Home

Tom Hanks, while working on the movie "Elvis" in 2022, discovered a new Elvis Presley song that he had never heard before. Despite not being a die-hard Elvis fan, Hanks agreed to play Colonel Tom Parker, Elvis' manager, in the film. He has always been a music enthusiast, with a particular fondness for 1960s rock and roll, but Elvis' music never resonated with him as strongly as other artists from that era.

When Baz Luhrmann offered Hanks the role of Colonel Tom Parker, he was initially unfamiliar with the character's appearance and background. However, the opportunity to portray a complex character who both loved and exploited Elvis intrigued Hanks. Parker was depicted as a shrewd businessman who recognized the financial potential of Elvis' talent and capitalized on it to the fullest.

Hanks found the role of Colonel Tom Parker to be one of the most rewarding of his career, despite the challenges of prosthetic makeup and accent work. As he delved into the character and the film's production, he developed a deeper appreciation for Elvis' music. A particular Elvis song, "I'm Comin' Home," caught his attention and quickly became a favorite, surpassing his previous top pick, "Bossa Nova Baby."

The discovery of "I'm Comin' Home" highlighted to Hanks that sometimes the best things in life are worth the wait. The experience of working on "Elvis" not only deepened his understanding of the music legend but also allowed him to explore a new side of his own musical preferences.