Holland Taylor Predicted Tom Hanks’ Success When They Worked Together on “Bosom Buddies”

Holland Taylor has reflected on her early career, particularly her experience working alongside Tom Hanks in the sitcom *Bosom Buddies*, which premiered in 1980. During a recent interview on the *Alchemy with Anthony Mason* podcast, the 83-year-old actress shared her admiration for Hanks, asserting that she realised soon after they began working together that he was destined for greatness.

Taylor, who originally carved a path in theatre performing on and off-Broadway, began her television journey in earnest with *Bosom Buddies*. The series, which ran until 1982, told the story of two men, played by Hanks and the late Peter Scolari, who disguise themselves as women in order to live in a low-cost hotel that prohibits male guests. In the show, Taylor portrayed Ruth Dunbar, the boss of Hanks’ character.

During the interview, Taylor fondly reminisced about her time on the set and spoke highly of Hanks’ significant talent. “After just a few days of working together, I remember calling my mother back on the East Coast,” she recalled. “I told her, ‘This guy’s going to be a huge star.’ I had never encountered someone with such raw histrionic ability. He was truly an extraordinary actor.”

The chemistry on set formed the basis of a lasting friendship, as Taylor noted that she and Hanks have maintained a close bond for nearly five decades. When Mason highlighted *Bosom Buddies* as a pivotal moment in Taylor’s career, she readily agreed, describing it as a significant turning point that allowed her to discover much about the craft of acting.

Filmed in front of a live audience, the experience on *Bosom Buddies* mirrored live theatre in many respects, challenging the cast to deliver performances that were both expressive and intimate. “It taught me a great deal about acting,” Taylor reflected. “You have to reach the audience while also being aware that a camera is often right in your face. It was an invaluable education and incredibly enjoyable — my first substantial television role.”

Although Taylor initially dreamed of performing in theatre, she has successfully transitioned into both television and film over her lengthy career. She is a nine-time Emmy nominee, winning in 1999 for her portrayal in *The Practice*. Her television repertoire includes notable performances in series such as *Two and a Half Men*, *The L Word*, and *The Morning Show*, as well as a recent role in an Apple TV series titled *Brothers*.

On the big screen, Taylor is recognised for her roles in a variety of films, including *The Truman Show* (1998), *Legally Blonde* (2000), and *Baby Mama* (2008). She also ventured into theatre writing and starring in the one-woman show *Ann*, which details the life of former Texas Governor Ann Richards. For her performance, she garnered a Tony nomination in 2013.

As for Tom Hanks, his journey to stardom took off shortly after *Bosom Buddies*, with significant roles in films like *Splash* (1984) marking his breakout moment. Hanks had previously appeared on *Happy Days*, a connection that helped him land his role in *Splash*, directed by Ron Howard.

By the late 1980s, Hanks had firmly established himself as a leading man in Hollywood with films such as *Big* (1988) and *Turner & Hooch* (1989). His status as a movie star solidified throughout the 1990s with iconic performances in films such as *A League of Their Own* (1992), *Sleepless in Seattle* (1993), and* Forest Gump* (1994), for which he won his first Academy Award.

Both actors have gone on to achieve remarkable success in their respective careers. Hanks holds seven Emmys and has received multiple nominations including three Oscars for which he won two: for *Philadelphia* (1993) and *Forrest Gump* (1994). He is also set to return to Broadway in 2027 with a new production titled *This World of Tomorrow*, which he co-wrote.

Reflecting on their shared history, Taylor’s appreciation for Hanks and their time on *Bosom Buddies* highlights not only her professional journey but also the personal connections that can form in the world of entertainment. Their decades-long friendship serves as a testament to the bonds created through shared experiences in performance.