Hollywood actor Tom Hanks made a surprise visit to Birmingham today to watch Aston Villa play against Arsenal.

The movie legend was given a tour of the grounds and met some of the squad who took part in Saturday’s (18 February) Premier League match at Villa Park. 

Double Oscar-winner Tom Hanks, 66, was spotted by football fans in Birmingham as he showed support for Aston Villa.

The Hollywood legend – star of films such as Toy Story, Saving Private Ryan, and Forrest Gump – has been a fan of Aston Villa since 2008 and loves watching the ups and downs of the Midlands football team.

Tom Hanks toured Villa Park before the game against Arsenal on SaturdayAVFC
Tom Hanks toured Villa Park before the match against Arsenal on Saturday

Hanks was seen at Villa Park being given a tour by Villa CEO Christian Purslow. Later he went behind the scenes at the club and was invited into the dressing room where Hanks met some of the players who were preparing for the important Premier League match.

The club issued a statement following the game saying: “Hollywood actor and Aston Villa supporter Tom Hanks was a special guest at Villa Park on Saturday.

“The movie legend, winner of two Academy Awards for Best Actor, showed his passion for the club as he met players, staff and supporters while also taking to the hallowed turf.”

The Hollywood star showed his delight when his beloved Aston Villa scored against ArsenalPremier League
The Hollywood star showed his delight when his beloved Aston Villa scored against Arsenal

The club concluded the statement by saying: “Hanks celebrated from the stands as he saw Ollie Watkins hand Villa an early lead before Philippe Coutinho restored the home side’s advantage to give Villa a 2-1 lead at the interval.

“But three second-half goals from the Gunners, including two in injury time, inflicted a cruel 4-2 defeat.”

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