Tom Hanks Stands Near Distant Cousin Abraham Lincoln's Memorial During 'Celebrating America' Event

Tom Hanks is keeping close to family during the first Celebrating America television event, following Joe Biden‘s Presidential Inauguration on Wednesday (January 20).

The 64-year-old actor stood on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, which is honor of his distant cousin and 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln. They are related through Abraham‘s mother, Nancy Hanks.

During his introduction on the program, Tom echoed Biden‘s speech earlier in the day, urging for unity in the country.

“The last few weeks, last few years, we’ve witnessed deep divisions and a troubling rancor in our land. But tonight we ponder the United States of America. The practice of our democracy, the foundations of our republic, the integrity of our constitution, the hope and dreams we all share for a more perfect union,” Tom shared.

He continued, “Inauguration Day is about much more than the swearing in of our next national leaders. This day is about witnessing the permanence of our American ideal. Every four years we hear the words that will empower us all on the journey ahead, the message that can unite us, as we begin a new passage from where we are to where we can be. A trek to a common goal, to the promise of our promised land.”

Many more artists are slated to perform in the special, including Tim McGraw, Justin Timberlake, John Legend, Katy Perry and more.

Stay tuned for their performances!

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