Tom Hanks to host Joe Biden inauguration TV show

New York: Joe Biden has cast himself as a unifier for the nation, but there is someone else the incoming administration hopes can help start healing a divided United States next week: universally beloved actor Tom Hanks. The 'Forrest Gump' star will host a special program broadcast simultaneously on all major US networks on the night of Biden’s inauguration, American media reported.

The 90-minute show entitled “Celebrating America” will feature musical performances from Jon Bon Jovi, Justin Timberlake and Demi Lovato. “I’m SO honored to announce that I will be joining @JoeBiden & @Kamala-Harris for their special event,” Lovato wrote on Twitter.

The broadcast - organised by the Presidential Inaugural Committee will replace the usual festivities at the swearing-in ceremony, cancelled this year because of the coronavirus pandemic. Aretha Franklin sang at Barack Obama's first inauguration in 2009, while Beyonce performed at his second four years later.