Why Tom Hanks supports Aston Villa as Hollywood star spotted at Liverpool match
Popular American actor Tom Hanks has been seen at Aston Villa's stadium, Villa Park, in preparation for their vital match against Liverpool on Monday evening.
The well-known performer was spotted at B6 during Villa's ultimate home game of the Premier League season. Unai Emery's team is aiming to secure fourth place by defeating the Reds.
Hanks previously expressed his backing for the football club when he was seen wearing a claret and blue scarf at a Villa game. During an interview, he was quizzed on whether he would entertain the idea of acquiring the team following the acquisition of Wrexham by fellow actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney in 2020.
Follow the live updates of the Aston Villa versus Liverpool match, along with team news, as the game takes place at Villa Park.
Learn more: Aston Villa has been provided a remarkable preview of what to expect from adidas.
During an interview with the BBC, he stated that Wrexham and Aston Villa have varying levels of economic success and Wrexham may be outside of his financial capabilities.
Discover everything there is to know about Hanks' love for Villa.
Tom Hanks: Why He Backs Villa
In January 2008, during the premiere of his movie Charlie Wilson's War in London, Hanks expressed his backing for Villa.
The actor who has won the Oscar award twice is fond of the 'old-fashioned name' of Villa, and he expressed it in these words: "Aston Villa appears to be a beautiful little town. It seems like a place for relaxation and pampering," as he stated during his conversation with James Corden.
When I first heard the name 'Aston Villa,' my mind immediately went to a picturesque holiday destination. The villa itself sounded stunning with French doors that opened up to a breathtaking view of the Aston harbor below.
So, as it happens, the location is in Birmingham. That's perfectly fine, there's nothing negative about Birmingham. However, it's not a place for those who are easily intimidated. Let me tell you that much.
I've been a loyal supporter of Aston Villa ever since and have witnessed their performance once during a friendly match in the United States. This experience has cemented my dedication to their team.
He showed up on the red carpet, displaying a scarf with the club's colors and has talked about his admiration for the team in various interviews. Bob Stephenson, his buddy and a popular actor, is also a supporter of Villa.
Before the Liverpool game, Hanks mentioned that whenever people talked about other media in the United States, they always focused on the other teams. The ones wearing red. However, he added that it was enjoyable to read about Aston Villa.
I visited this place for the first time a year ago, and it was an unforgettable experience. Every time I am in the UK, I make sure to see if I can fit a visit to Villa Park in my schedule. Luckily, I am able to witness Villa create history tonight. Let's go Villa!
Has He Watched A Game Live?
He was present at Villa's pre-season exhibition match against Portland Timbers during the summer of 2012. He flew in from Los Angeles to view the game alongside Stephenson.
The game ended with both teams scoring two goals each resulting in a tie which was ultimately settled with a penalty shootout. Prior to the match, he took photos with the team's coach Paul Lambert as well as players such as Fabian Delph and Gabby Agbonlahor. He has also been seen attending other games following the match.
His Thoughts On Villa?
During an interview on Channel 5 back in 2013, Hanks expressed his backing for Villa. When asked about his allegiance to the club, he responded by saying: "I am, indeed. Although, my experience is limited to attending one Aston Villa game, which happened to be a friendly match played in the United States."
I attempt to stay informed. One of my close buddies is a die-hard Aston Villa fan who also resides in Los Angeles. As a result, I continuously receive the latest news and updates from him.
I always struggle to locate the channel that airs the football game on my TV guide at home. Is it on channel 583, 643, or 801? It's always a bit of a challenge to find it.
Whenever I tune in to watch football on the channels dedicated to this sport, I often find myself disappointed by the same old match-ups featuring teams like West Ham and Man United, or Tottenham and Queens Park Rangers. What I really desire to see is Villa. Yes, Villa – that's the team I'm rooting for.
Doesn't the name Aston Villa evoke a charming atmosphere? I really enjoyed a delightful massage treatment I received at Aston Villa.
During an appearance on BBC Radio Five Live in 2015, when Aston Villa faced its relegation from the Premier League, Hanks remained committed to supporting the club. He stressed the importance of embracing the positives and negatives of rooting for a football team, as it is a valuable life lesson. Hanks advised listeners to simply accept the highs and lows and keep moving forward.
Several months later, after the club was demoted, Hanks released a communication to the fans of Villa.
The famous actor who played Forrest Gump gave a message to Aston Villa fans. He said that every club goes through tough times, but they always come back stronger. He encouraged the fans to stay strong and not give up, and to wear their scarves with pride. The actor believes that Aston Villa will overcome their challenges and fulfill their destiny.
