Tom Hanks to Play Abraham Lincoln in ‘Lincoln In The Bardo’ Movie

Variety

by Angelique Jackson

February 23, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Tom Hanks is set to star in and produce a film adaptation of *“Lincoln in the Bardo,”* a project based on George Saunders’ bestselling novel. The Oscar-winning actor will portray President Abraham Lincoln, marking his first time playing a U.S. President. Directed by Duke Johnson, the movie will blend stop-motion animation with live-action to explore themes of love, empathy, and grief, focusing on Lincoln’s relationship with his deceased 11-year-old son, Willie. This unique approach offers a fresh perspective on one of history’s most iconic figures, moving beyond Lincoln’s presidency and Civil War legacy to highlight a deeply personal story. The production is being handled by Starburns Industries, with Paul Young and Devon Young Rabinowitz producing alongside Johnson. George Saunders will adapt his own novel for the screen, while Steven Shareshian, Aaron Mitchell, and Saunders himself will serve as executive producers. Hanks’ involvement in the project is notable given his extensive history of portraying real-life figures, from astronauts to journalists, though this marks a first for him as a U.S. President. His previous roles include narrating *“Killing Lincoln,”* which also revealed his distant familial connection to the 16th President. The film’s focus on Lincoln’s personal grief and its innovative use of animation sets it apart from other adaptations of his life. By centering on the emotional bond between Lincoln and his son, the movie aims to humanize the President beyond his

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Originally published on Variety on 2/23/2026