Photo Credit: Getty Image
Tom Hanks has alerted his fans about fraudulent advertisements using his image and voice to promote so-called "wonder drugs." The Oscar-winning actor took to Instagram on August 29, 2024, to warn his followers about these deceptive practices, emphasizing that these ads were created without his consent.
Hanks, who has been open about his Type 2 diabetes diagnosis, expressed his concern over the misuse of his likeness. "There are multiple ads over the internet falsely using my name, likeness, and voice promoting miracle cures and wonder drugs," Hanks stated. He further clarified that these ads were generated through AI and were not authorized by him in any way.
"Do not be fooled. Do not be swindled. Do not lose your hard-earned money." Hanks emphasized that he only works with a board-certified doctor for his treatment and does not endorse any of the products being advertised in these misleading campaigns.
This isn't the first time Hanks has had to address the misuse of his image. Last October, he warned his followers about a similar incident involving a deepfake video promoting a dental plan. "BEWARE!!" Hanks wrote in an all-caps warning on Instagram at the time. "There's a video out there promoting some dental plan with an AI version of me. I have nothing to do with it."
Hanks' warning comes at a time when the actor is actively involved in various charitable causes. Earlier this year, he and his wife, Rita Wilson, served as honorary chairs for "An Unforgettable Evening," an event benefiting the Women's Cancer Research Fund. Wilson, who underwent a double mastectomy for breast cancer in 2015, spoke about the importance of community support in fighting cancer. "It takes a village," she said. "And this community in our town of Los Angeles, California has turned out for 25 years to support this cause. We don't do it alone."
Hanks credited his wife for helping him manage his time and commitments, allowing him to focus on meaningful causes. "Periodically this lady sits me down," he said, "and we pull out the books. We look at the year. We ponder the work that's gotta get done."
