Tom Hanks to host Biden unity special

Tom Hanks is tasked with bringing the country back together. The beloved actor will host a star-studded prime-time special to celebrate the inauguration of President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris after the swearing-in next week, the Presidential Inaugural Committee announced Wednesday.

The 90-minute program, dubbed “Celebrating America,” will “showcase the American people’s resilience, heroism, and unified commitment to coming together as a nation to heal and rebuild” and celebrate “American heroes” like frontline workers, health care workers, teachers and ordinary citizens who are giving back and breaking barriers. Justin Timberlake, Jon Bon Jovi, Demi Lovato and Ant Clemons are all set to perform, with more guests expected to be announced later. The special, beginning at 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, will air live on ABC, CBS, CNN, NBC and MSNBC.

“This inauguration presents a unique opportunity to spotlight the resilience and spirit of an America United,” Presidential Inaugural Committee CEO Tony Allen said. “We have witnessed countless heroes this past year step up to the frontlines and serve their fellow Americans, so we are telling their stories, spreading their collective light, and celebrating the best of our country and its people with this primetime program.” “Our first priority is safety — so while many of us will be watching safely from our homes, we are creating real moments of connection that highlight a new inclusive American era of leadership that works for and represents all Americans.”