Sleepless in Seattle: A Romantic Classic Born from Unlikely Beginnings

Before becoming one of the most recognizable actresses in Hollywood, Meg Ryan was a stand-up comic trying to make it big. She had already gained fame for her roles in When Harry Met Sally (1989) and Joe Versus the Volcano (1990), but it was her iconic performance as Annie Reed in Sleepless in Seattle that cemented her status as one of the rom-com queens of the late-'80s and early-'90s.

In 1993, Ryan starred alongside Tom Hanks in the romantic comedy Sleepless in Seattle, which tells the story of a widower's son who calls in to a radio talk show in an attempt to find his father a new partner. The film was a massive hit, grossing over $227 million worldwide and earning Meg Ryan her first Golden Globe nomination.

But what many people don't know is that Sleepless in Seattle was not the first time Ryan and Hanks worked together. They previously starred alongside each other in Joe Versus the Volcano (1990). Their on-screen chemistry was undeniable, and it's no surprise that they reunited for Sleepless in Seattle.

The film's success can be attributed to its witty dialogue, charming performances from Ryan and Hanks, and a timeless story that continues to captivate audiences to this day. Since its release, Sleepless in Seattle has become a beloved classic, with many regarding it as one of the greatest romantic comedies of all time.

In addition to her iconic roles in When Harry Met Sally (1989) and Sleepless in Seattle (1993), Ryan went on to star in other hit films like Kate & Leopold (2001), Ithaca (2015), and What Happens Later (2023). She has been nominated for three Golden Globes, including one for her performance in Sleepless in Seattle.

Tom Hanks, on the other hand, was already a household name before starring in Sleepless in Seattle. He had previously appeared in films like Big (1988) and A League of Their Own (1992), and had even won two Oscars for his performances in Philadelphia (1993) and Forrest Gump (1994).

Since Sleepless in Seattle, Hanks has continued to impress audiences with his versatility as an actor, starring in a wide range of films including Apollo 13 (1995), Saving Private Ryan (1998), The Da Vinci Code (2005), Angels & Demons (2009), Captain Philips (2013), and most recently, Asteroid City. He has won seven Emmys, four Golden Globes, and two SAG Awards among numerous other accolades.

Sleepless in Seattle may have been a romantic comedy that captured the hearts of millions, but it was also a turning point in the careers of both Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks. The film's success paved the way for their future projects and cemented their status as one of Hollywood's most beloved on-screen couples.

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