Tom Hanks has paid an emotional tribute to legendary NASA astronaut James “Jim” Lovell, who died on August 7 at the age of 97. Lovell’s daughter-in-law confirmed his passing to The New York Times.
Hanks, 69, famously portrayed Lovell in the 1995 Oscar-winning film Apollo 13, directed by Ron Howard. The film recreated the harrowing real-life events of the 1970 lunar mission that Lovell commanded, which suffered critical failures but returned safely to Earth, a feat Lovell later described as a 'successful failure.'
Sharing his tribute on Instagram, Hanks wrote: “There are people who dare, who dream, and who lead others to places we would not go on our own. Jim Lovell… was that kind of guy.
"His many voyages were not for riches or celebrity, but because such challenges fuel the course of being alive.”
Reflecting on Lovell’s passing, Hanks added, “On this night of a full moon, he passes on to the heavens, to the cosmos, to the stars. God speed you, on this next voyage, Jim Lovell.”
Ron Howard also honoured Lovell, calling him “one of the most remarkable individuals” he had ever met. Sharing side-by-side images of the real-life astronaut and his movie portrayal, Howard praised Lovell’s intellect, courage, and unwavering support during the making of Apollo 13.
Born in Cleveland, Ohio, Lovell was a Navy test pilot before joining NASA.
He flew on four space missions – Gemini 7, Gemini 12, Apollo 8, and Apollo 13 – and at one point held the record for the most time spent in space.
To mark the 30th anniversary of Apollo 13, the film will be re-released in IMAX theatres on September 19, introducing Lovell’s extraordinary story to a new generation.