Tom Hanks has delivered some of the most memorable performances in cinematic history, from the heartwarming Forrest Gump to the gritty Saving Private Ryan. But one of his most intense roles—the real-life astronaut Jim Lovell in Apollo 13—is about to vanish from Netflix. The film, directed by Ron Howard, will be removed from the streaming platform in October 2026, giving subscribers just a few more weeks to experience this nail-biting survival story.
Set against the backdrop of the 1970 Apollo 13 mission, the movie chronicles the harrowing journey of three astronauts who face a life-threatening crisis when an oxygen tank explodes mid-flight. With the mission aborted, the crew must rely on their wits and the tireless efforts of mission control to make it back to Earth. Hanks leads a stellar cast that includes Kevin Bacon, Bill Paxton, Gary Sinise, and Ed Harris, all delivering performances that elevate the tension to unbearable levels.
A Near-Miss at the Oscars
While Apollo 13 was a critical and commercial triumph, it also became a notable footnote in Oscar history. The film earned nine Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture, and took home two statues for Best Film Editing and Best Sound. However, Hanks, who had just won back-to-back Best Actor Oscars for Philadelphia and Forrest Gump, was shockingly overlooked for his portrayal of Lovell. That snub prevented him from achieving a historic three-peat, a feat no actor has ever accomplished.
Despite the Academy's oversight, Hanks's performance remains a standout in his filmography. He would later earn another nomination for Saving Private Ryan, but for many fans, Apollo 13 is where he truly showcased his range as a dramatic actor.
Why You Should Watch Before It's Gone
Beyond the star power, Apollo 13 is a masterclass in filmmaking. Ron Howard's direction keeps the audience on the edge of their seats, even though the outcome is well-known. The film's meticulous attention to detail, from the authentic spacecraft interiors to the period-accurate costumes, immerses viewers in the tension of the era. It's no wonder the movie holds a 92% "Certified Fresh" rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics praising its gripping narrative and ensemble cast.
If you're a fan of space dramas or simply appreciate great storytelling, this is your chance to catch Apollo 13 on Netflix before it departs. And if you're looking for more films leaving the platform soon, check out Ryan Reynolds' action-comedy and Paul Rudd's teen classic, both of which are also saying goodbye in October.
A Legacy That Endures
Produced on a budget of $52 million, Apollo 13 grossed over $355 million worldwide, solidifying its place as a box office hit. Its legacy extends beyond numbers, though. The film inspired a new generation of space enthusiasts and remains a benchmark for realistic space dramas. Ron Howard, who later won Best Director and Best Picture for A Beautiful Mind, continues to be a force in Hollywood, with upcoming projects featuring stars like Adam Driver and Anne Hathaway.
As the clock ticks down on its Netflix availability, now is the perfect time to revisit this classic or introduce it to someone who's never seen it. Don't miss your chance to witness one of Tom Hanks's most compelling performances. Mark your calendar—Apollo 13 leaves Netflix at the end of October 2026.
