Tom Hanks sparked a viral media moment after joking about MS NOW’s ratings during a live interview from the Obama Presidential Center opening in Chicago.
The Oscar-winning actor was approached by MS NOW correspondent Jacob Soboroff during live coverage of the star-studded event. Hanks, known for his quick humor, immediately poked fun at the network by asking what he could do for the “800 people watching MS NOW.”
He then jokingly added that Soboroff could “add a zero” if needed. The reporter took the comment in good spirits, replying that millions were probably watching now that Hanks was on the air.
The exchange continued as Hanks briefly discussed the opening of the Obama Presidential Center. Soboroff later thanked him for helping “add the zero” to the network’s ratings, prompting Hanks to joke that he could hear the clicks increasing as he walked away.
The lighthearted moment amused anchor Katy Tur, who laughed after the interview and noted that Hanks has previously been supportive of the press. She referenced the actor’s past gesture of sending a coffee machine to White House reporters.
The joke drew attention because MS NOW has faced scrutiny over its ratings since rebranding from MSNBC. Reports said the network averaged hundreds of thousands of daily viewers in early 2026, while still trailing Fox News in both daytime and primetime audiences.
Hanks’ joke quickly spread online, with many viewers calling it a savage but playful swipe at the network. Others said the actor’s tone made it clear the remark was meant as a friendly joke rather than a serious attack.
The moment happened during the grand opening of the Obama Presidential Center, a major event attended by former presidents, celebrities, musicians and political figures. The new center in Chicago is designed as a museum, civic space and community hub connected to Barack Obama’s presidential legacy.
For MS NOW, the viral clip may have been awkward, but it also brought attention to the network’s live coverage. For Hanks, it was another reminder of his ability to turn even a quick interview into a memorable TV moment.
