Story perspectives

Tom Hanks to Star as Lincoln in Unique Animation Project

2/23/2026

Summary

Story summary

Tom Hanks (the actor) will portray President Abraham Lincoln in George Saunders’ Lincoln in the Bardo.
This marks Hanks' first role as a U.S. president.
Starburns Industries produces the project, combining live-action and stop-motion animation to explore Lincoln's grief over his 11-year-old son Willie.
Duke Johnson, an Academy Award-nominated director, will helm the production in London.
Hanks will also produce the project via Playtone, alongside Gary Goetzman.

1 of 1

Story summary

Tom Hanks (the actor) will portray President Abraham Lincoln in George Saunders’ Lincoln in the Bardo.
This marks Hanks' first role as a U.S. president.
Starburns Industries produces the project, combining live-action and stop-motion animation to explore Lincoln's grief over his 11-year-old son Willie.
Duke Johnson, an Academy Award-nominated director, will helm the production in London.
Hanks will also produce the project via Playtone, alongside Gary Goetzman.