Denzel Washington Calls Chris Pratt the ‘Second Coming of Tom Hanks’—Here’s Why

Academy Award-winner Denzel Washington, renowned for his decades of excellence in film, has had the privilege of working with some of the finest actors in Hollywood. Over his illustrious career, Washington has gained unparalleled insight into what makes a top-tier actor. However, in a recent interview, Washington made an intriguing comparison, calling Chris Pratt “the second coming of Tom Hanks.” While that might raise some eyebrows, Washington’s assessment speaks volumes about Pratt’s appeal and undeniable on-screen presence.

Washington’s admiration for Hanks runs deep, especially due to their transformative partnership in the 1993 film Philadelphia, which earned Hanks an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. Washington and Hanks brought incredible chemistry to the screen as they tackled the sensitive and groundbreaking subject of HIV and AIDS discrimination. For Washington, working with Hanks on Philadelphia was a revelation—an experience that allowed him to see firsthand the unique qualities Hanks brings to every role.

In a reflection on their time together, Hanks praised Washington’s mastery of his craft, saying, “I sat beside him for three weeks shooting the trial. I had no dialogue. It was a thriller of an acting class. He follows no rules but pursues the moment. No nonsense, but a looseness that can’t be faked.” Hanks also recognized Washington’s approach to acting as a game of “hardball catch,” where he pushes his co-stars to match his level of intensity and spontaneity, ultimately making them better performers.

Washington, in turn, was equally captivated by Hanks’ charismatic off-screen nature—a quality that Hanks effortlessly translated into his on-screen performances. According to Washington, Hanks’ ability to make audiences like him, regardless of the character he was playing, is something rare and unteachable. It’s a gift that Washington recognized and valued throughout their time together.

It wasn’t until more than two decades later, when Washington worked with Chris Pratt on The Magnificent Seven, that he encountered another actor who possessed that same magnetic charm and innate likability—qualities that make audiences root for them, regardless of the character’s flaws.

“Chris is great. I can see why he’s so popular,” Washington remarked. “There’s another actor that I worked with, whatever, 20 years ago, by the name of Hanks who had that same quality about them, that you just really like them — aside from their obvious talent, they’re good people and it comes across on-screen.”

Pratt, who gained fame through his role as the lovable goofball Andy Dwyer on Parks and Recreation, later became a major star through the Guardians of the Galaxy and Jurassic World franchises. Despite his fame in the action genre, Pratt’s charm and relatability have remained constants, whether he’s playing a superhero or a Western gunslinger. In The Magnificent Seven, Pratt played Joshua Faraday, a rugged yet endearing character, and his on-screen likability made him a fan favorite. His ability to bring warmth and humor to his characters, even in more serious settings, drew a clear parallel to the qualities Washington admired in Hanks.

During a red carpet interview with ABC News at the premiere of The Magnificent Seven, Pratt reciprocated Washington’s praise, calling him a “legend and a great human being.” Pratt expressed his admiration for Washington’s long-standing career and the opportunity to work alongside someone with such impressive credentials. “It’s rare you get a chance to work with somebody who’s a two-time Oscar winner,” Pratt added. “He’s just decorated. Like I said, he’s a legend. … It is a bromance, yeah.”

While Pratt has not yet reached the versatility and wide-ranging acclaim that Hanks has enjoyed over his career, Washington recognizes the value of Pratt’s appeal. Over the past decade, Pratt has become one of the most bankable stars in Hollywood, known for his humor, authenticity, and undeniable charisma. His ability to connect with audiences and make them feel invested in his characters is a rare and valuable skill that has propelled him to the forefront of Hollywood’s leading men.

Washington’s comparison of Pratt to Hanks highlights an important distinction: while Pratt may not yet have the same level of versatility or critical accolades as Hanks, his on-screen likability is an attribute that has made him a major draw for audiences. It’s not an easy skill to cultivate, and Washington knows it takes more than just talent to capture an audience’s affection. It’s a quality that has made Pratt a fan favorite and one that will continue to fuel his rise in Hollywood.

In a world where actors often compete for the same roles and recognition, it’s clear that both Pratt and Hanks share a rare gift—the ability to make audiences root for them, no matter the character or the genre. And, as Washington so astutely points out, that kind of charm “comes across onscreen.”