In what is considered “perfect casting”, Tom Hanks has been cast as Mr.Rogers in the upcoming biopic about Fred Rogers, You Are My Friend. Rogers is best known for his role as Mr Rogers in the iconic children’s television show, Mister Roger’s Neighborhood. The show was a staple for many children growing up and could now be streamed on Netflix.
The film will follow the real-life friendship between Rogers and journalist Tom Junod. It will begin the moment Junod accepts an assignment to write a profile article on Mr Rogers, despite his initial disinterest, and follows Junod’s change of heart that he undergoes as a result.
You Are My Friend will be directed by Marielle Heller, who directed Diary of a Teenage Girl. Heller said in the release:
“The script knocked me out with its message of kindness and its exploration of the human spirit. As a mother, I am so inspired by the teachings of Fred Rogers and as a human I am in awe of his life’s work.”
This role could finally land Hanks his first Academy Award nomination since Saving Private Ryan.
