Tom Hanks

Tom Hanks, known for his everyman appeal and ability to play characters ranging from astronauts to animated cowboys, has a reputation for being one of Hollywood's most genuinely nice guys. This, apparently, has led many to assume he must be Jewish. The power of wishful thinking, we presume.

Despite numerous articles and message board debates speculating on his origins ("Is Tom Hanks Jewish?"), the answer is a resounding no. Hanks was raised Catholic and later converted to Greek Orthodoxy when he married Rita Wilson. So, while he might embody the kind of Mensch-like qualities we admire, he's not one of ours by birth or by faith.

However, Hanks has portrayed Jewish characters (such as in "Cast Away," though that's debatable). His long and illustrious career, marked by multiple Academy Awards and a consistently wholesome public image, certainly qualifies him for a high Kvell score. He's just the kind of person you'd want your kids to look up to, even if he doesn't join us for Pesach.