Hanks to be honoured by US film society

Rex Features

Tom Hanks is to be honoured at the Lincoln Centre's 36th annual film gala in New York.

Society director Kent Jones said the 52-year-old has set "a very high standard" for his fellow actors to aspire to.

Hanks will follow in the footsteps of Meryl Streep, who was recognised by the society last year.

Jones told the BBC: "There are so few actors who have been able to make the struggle and drama of being a good man compelling."

He praised Hanks's "talent, his presence, his versatility" on the screen and said he was an inspiration to others in the industry.

The Lincoln Centre for the Performing Arts is home to a dozen arts organisations.