Chet Hanks, son of beloved actor Tom Hanks, has recently embarked on a new journey in pursuit of a career in country music, prompting a relocation to Nashville. During an appearance on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” on April 28, the “Running Point” star shared details of his transition to a trailer park lifestyle as part of this bold move.
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At 35 years of age, Hanks confirmed that he opted for an RV lifestyle instead of renting a traditional apartment. He explained that he was reluctant to go through the hassle of furnishing yet another home after having recently settled into a condominium in Los Angeles. “I didn’t want to get an apartment because I literally just got a condo in L.A. and I furnished it,” he stated. In search of a more comfortable and personal space, he found himself frequently staying in Airbnbs and hotels but realised he longed for something more permanent.
Chet cited a recent trip to Carmel-by-the-Sea in California as a pivotal moment that inspired his decision. According to him, his experience staying in an Airstream trailer left a lasting impression. “I stayed in an Airstream trailer and I really loved it,” he recalled. This newfound appreciation for minimalism led him to purchase a trailer of his own — specifically a Jayco Eagle — though he himself noted that he was “not there yet” in terms of owning an Airstream.
While Hanks admits that living in a trailer park comes with its own set of quirks, he expresses satisfaction with his compact living arrangement. “It has everything I need. I got my kitchen. I got, you know, a walk-in shower,” he shared, highlighting one of the advantages of his home on wheels. Hanks pointed out that it’s crucial to have a separate walk-in shower rather than the combined wet bath that is common in smaller trailers.
One amusing aspect of his new environment is the age demographic of his neighbours. “I’m probably, like, the youngest person in the trailer park by, like, 30 or 40 years,” he commented, while defending the vibrancy of his new living arrangement. He clarified, “It’s not what you think, you know? You think, oh, you’re gonna live in a trailer park. It might be a little sketchy. It might be a little dangerous. It’s all just, like retirees, you know? Great people.”
In a light-hearted exchange with Fallon, Chet elaborated on his experiences within the park, including the amenities available to him. “I do have a campfire outside of it. I have a fire pit and I have used it,” he admitted, though he later admitted that he often prefers to enjoy a quieter lifestyle. “Most of the time, I just do exactly what I do at home, which is just stay inside and lay in bed and watch Netflix and things like that,” he quipped.
Beyond discussing his living arrangements, Hanks also shared a significant milestone in his burgeoning music career. He recently performed at the reputable Stagecoach music festival, where he made his debut on one of country music’s most renowned stages. Reflecting on the accomplishment, he said, “It was only our second performance ever,” revealing the pride he felt having his Oscar-winning father present in the audience.
Chet Hanks’ aspirations in country music mark another chapter in the life of the actor and musician, and for him, the trailer park embodies a step towards greater independence and authenticity. As he navigates this new path, the Nashville community seems to have embraced his presence, welcoming him into their fold, even if he is somewhat of an outlier in age.
In summary, Chet Hanks’ relocation to Nashville and transition into the trailer park lifestyle reflects a commitment to both personal growth and pursuing his passion for music. With ambitions to carve out his niche in the country music scene, Hanks is evidently enjoying this new challenge while adapting to the unique experience that life in a trailer park has to offer.