Date: 2nd January 2001

Hanks Thanks Woodwork Teacher


TOM HANKS had an unusual source of inspiration for his role in new movie CASTAWAY - his former woodwork teacher.

Hanks never forgot retired college professor LARRY SHUMATE, who taught craft at CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY in Sacramento when the actor was a boy. And when asked in interviews how he prepared to play a modern ROBINSON CRUSOE, Hanks remembered Mr Shumate.

The retired teacher says, "I was overwhelmed and incredibly flattered that out of all the people Tom knows, he'd pick me. "I taught my students to look around and use whatever materials they had on hand. It was just a matter of doing the best work you can with what you have available."

(KL/TG/KW)

Source: WENN