Tom Hanks Outsmarts the Heat on Set with a Cheeky Move

Few would ever question Tom Hanks’ dedication to his profession, yet even the most committed actors know when to pick their battles. On one particular occasion, Hanks demonstrated a rather unorthodox approach to professionalism, choosing comfort over convention without a hint of drama or fuss. Rather than storming off in a huff or clashing with colleagues, he simply recognised the futility of his presence and opted for a more leisurely alternative.

It’s not the sort of behaviour one would expect from someone so often described as the nicest man in the business. Still, when faced with the choice between enduring hours under a blazing sun or enjoying a spot of shade and a bite to eat, who could blame him? After years of playing what he called “pussies,” Hanks was ready for something different. This led him to Penny Marshall’s film, A League of Their Own, where he took on the role of Jimmy Dugan, the hard-drinking manager of the Rockford Peaches. He’s since described the experience as “the greatest gig in the world,” making it clear he relished every moment.

Spotting an Opportunity

During filming, a particular scene required the team to lament their meagre crowds. Hanks, whose character was central to the moment, quickly realised he wasn’t essential for the entire duration.

“I read the pages, and I had the very first line in the scene, and I also had the very last line in the scene,”

he recounted to Stephen Colbert.

“And I knew if I didn’t get out of that friggin’ dugout, I was going to be shooting that scene for three and a half days.”

Rather than resigning himself to a marathon of takes, Hanks devised a clever workaround. He delivered his opening line as written, then improvised a reason for his character to leave—suggesting he needed to “give the line-up to the umpire”—and promptly made his exit. This quick thinking spared him days of filming in the heat, reducing his involvement to a matter of minutes.

Making the Most of a Break

While the rest of the cast and crew toiled away, Hanks found a shady spot and made the most of his unexpected free time.

“Because of where the sun was, they had to shoot that for hours, in like, three successive afternoons,”

he explained.

“And you know what I was doing while they were shooting? I was playing three flies up and eating turkey franks, baby. Because I was smart enough to walk out!”

He was meant to remain on set throughout, but his quick wit and a touch of improvisation allowed him to slip away.

“That’s what pros do, baby! They read the script and say, ‘I don’t think I have to be in this scene.’”

Deciding his presence was unnecessary, he simply removed himself from the equation.