I used to see Tom as a movie character. After watching his stand up, musical abilities & charisma he has become a person I admire and respect a great deal. I no longer see a character, I see a fantastic human.
Agreed. Watching him be a vulnerable, humble, incredibly loving, hilarious, captivating father, actor and all-around great guy just sucked me in. The Adam West story had me tearing up. Truly beautiful words. I will watch this documentary more times than I’ve seen any of the Back to the Future movies. And that’s a lot! I felt like I was his best friend there with him. Thank you for making this Tom! God bless you!
I'd like to apologize to you Mr. Wilson. Years ago, I saw your "Biff's Question Song" and immediately assumed you were annoyed by your celebrity and just wanted to be left alone. After seeing this video, I not only realize how much you embraced what you're famous for but that you are indeed "a good man". Wishing all the best to you and your family. Take care.
Edmund, I've always tried to joke about it, as I wrestle with it, and revel in it. It's a mixed bag, and I try to be honest about it. No apology is necessary. All the best to you.
I felt the same way! I was a total BttF fan when all 3 movies came out, but never thought of what happened to the guy who played Biff (Michael J Fox? I followed him like a hawk!) Then one day, also years ago, I saw that song, and was like, "Dude, you hate you got to play this iconic character???" But I realize now I too was wrong about it, especially when I saw him at comic con in 2017 and realized he was embracing his fame and fans.
I was fifteen years old when I first saw the movie, and I still watch all three from time to time. Just watched it yesterday. Tom how many times have you watched it? Thanks
I'm a 75 year "young" man and my eyes 'sweated' with respect several times over while watching this video. You really are a good man Tom Wilson. Thank you.
I read your comment before watching the video and didn't think it was possible that I would have the same issue of eye sweating that you did... But low and behold it looks like we've got the same eye sweating condition when watching this one haha. I'm glad to be in good company 😁👍👍
We love you, Tom! Your daughters are what really turned on the eye faucets for me! Thank you always for the childhood memories of some of my most favorite movies ever!!! ❤
Absolutely! Tom you owned all the iterations of that character, and nailed the best lines! I can watch the first one 100 times, and when I see you say, as almost an aside, to George, “I don’t wanna see you in here again,” I felt the danger, and just knew Biff was going to be real trouble the next time. It never felt like acting when I watched you, that’s how good you are. Thank you! I laughed and enjoyed this video so much Tom! You’re indeed a good man.
I really like his kids. The Arts is why Dad geeked his job so hard after 1963, and gave a sad chuckle when I rejected his invite to intern at his office space. "DAD, have we even met?" I was playing Prince covers with two bands and rock/funk with a neighborhood guitarist they called "Hendrix". "Roll Bounce". If I ever get to an event, I'll be the one yelling, "Hey, Mr. Wilson" while female and brown. We had a man like him in my Levittown blues story. Ugh, I hated the burbs, and the FOMO never went away. We weren't snobby, speaking Queen's English, we spoke "Mission Control". I ended up in the Navy, too, at the same age as Uhura, 22. I'd been accepted to Loyola Baltimore bc Ethyl Ennis was near the campus, but that Mccormick factory stunk to high Heaven! (I definitely would have worn a mask)
The average movie watcher doesn't understand or appreciate the level of acting that Tom Wilson put in in that trilogy. The varying iterations of Biff that he created were absolutely brilliant. At 44 years old to this day He is my favorite part of that franchise.❤ ❤
Agreed! Considering what Biff had to do in the story, it was an incredible balancing act to make the character have a humorous and interesting arc throughout the movie.
Agreed, someone needs to make a video solely on the variety he puts on display. Teen Biff, Boss Biff, Meek Biff, Old Biff, Teen Griff, Rich Biff, Mad Dog Tannen, he put in the WORK!!
He basically made the third film possible. Without a legit incredibly well acted villain that movie in the west doesn’t happen really. He seems like a wonderful guy. Loved this movie. X
I'm a retired U.S. intelligence officer with too many deployments and a former title with the word "Special" in it. I haven't felt too important since retirement. Your humility, kindness, views on fame, and especially what you said to Mr. West, made me acknowledge that my former titles do not define who I was, am or will be. Anymore than Biff defines Tom Wilson or Batman defines Adam West. I had job and role. Your video really fast forwarded some stuff I was working out in my head. Thank you Sir.
Mr. Wilson is someone I would love to talk to for hours and hours. Not because he is famous for the best film-trilogy ever made, no... because he seems to be a fantastic guy. Best wishes from Germany!
I always wanted to meet Adam West and ask about him and Ertha Kitt! He was so camp and silly, I just loved his work. What they did to Batman since then went a bit too far for me. Adam made a new career spoofing himself, and I loved that, too.
You know what is better than fame? Authenticity. Being genuine. And there's nobody I've had the pleasure of meeting and watching here that has as much as you, Tom. I may be a far bridge from Batman, but you are definitely a good man.
Tom, your daughter's story of your graciousness touched me. About 20 years ago , you appeared on our Catholic radio talk show in Sacramento. When you confirmed, we talked for a while about your CD and your faith. It was such a joy to talk to you. I remember thinking , "What a great, generous guy. I wish he were my neighbor." Thanks for the conversation. You've got a wonderful family.
I think what your daughters had to say about you is the most impressive part to me as a parent. I think being a role model to your kids and having them being thankful for that and emulate it is the greatest thing you can do. I also love that you're friends with Adam the Woo :)
At the end I stood up, clapped, and said "Bravo, Sir... Bravo." This is an award worthy documentary, so Thank You for making it and sharing it with everyone for free! Adam West is right.
In a sea of comments, I hope you see this. Your kindness, patience, thankfulness and humor are very evident and heart warming 🥹❤ I appreciate you and the time you spend with people making each one feel special. Just like you helped those people in the store find a suit, lol, they probably had no idea who you were and the stories of how gracious you are to others even when you were hurting. God Bless You and your Beautiful Family, Tom! Would love to meet you in person one day, but I feel like I already know ya! 😊 Keep Shining ☀️
Mr Wilson, this was a remarkably deep, introspective piece that really explored the other side of cultural popularity that I think most never contemplate. For many, it’s difficult to separate the actor from the role or realize that fame almost eliminates the anonymity that most take for granted in day to day life. The story of the fan confronting you immediately after your mother’s passing really illustrates the grace and fortitude you have as I don’t think many could tolerate at such a vulnerable time. This was an outstanding piece that I feel every fan of celebrity needs to watch. Bravo.
So much respect for Mr. Wilson, I love that he did this documentary, that he’s telling his story. It’s very insightful, personal, and frankly moving. Thank you for this.
Hey Tom, regardless of the fame you earned from BTTF, you are simply a gracious and humble human being. Your family is amazing and you've set the bar really high for the rest of us dads. Hopefully our paths will cross one day and I get to shake your hand, not because you are famous, but because you are a decent guy!
Proof you don’t need a $100 million budget to create something so meaningful. Appreciation this. God bless you and your family, Tom. Batman isn’t the only one that you can make cry. 🙂
I'm 24, and I never got to live and experience the BTTF fever, but regardless of any of that, I've gotta say Mr. Wilson. You're one hell of a gem of a human. You'd think it's easy to not let that fame get to your head, the way you carry yourself, the way Mr. West did. But it takes a certain type of person to handle that burden. Especially to handle to burden of being the world's most famous bully despite being the complete opposite in real life. You don't need it, but you have my utmost respect, sir. And may your beloved ma rest in glorious peace.
I’m only three minutes into this and Tom reminds me of artists Christo and his partner Jean-Claude. To examine art is also art itself. It could be the highest form of art, in fact. The repercussions art has on our lives, our world, our mentality. It’s fascinating. Thank you Tom.
One of the most iconic villain/actor in movie history. Provided by hard work and level head combined with strong self value and good nature. It’s a model one can see leads to concrete foundations and stability in life.
Super good job man. For reasons you won’t know on this side of life, you were given this platform and you are apparently a connected man to your heart. You are philosophical and are wise. You should be a counselor to celebrities who can’t or even try to make sense of it all. Your role in BTTF has blessed so many people with joy and a moment of escape and happiness, maybe this is why God called upon you for the job. Well done Tom.
This was an emotional roller coaster. Thank you for sharing such personal life experiences with us Mr Wilson. May the Lord Jesus Christ continue to bless you and your Family. Amen.
This just popped up in my RU-vid feed randomly. Having really no idea what it was,figured I’d check it out for a few minutes and move on. WOW! What an incredibly interesting …….i don’t know….documentary? Introspective? So enjoyed watching this, Tom! Sharing with my friends so they can enjoy.
I am writing to express my deepest admiration and appreciation for the remarkable person you are, both on and off the screen. Your talent as an actor is unquestionable, but what truly sets you apart is your genuine humility and kindness. In an industry where ego often takes center stage, your down-to-earth nature and approachability have not gone unnoticed. Your ability to remain grounded and connect with people from all walks of life is truly commendable. Your funny wit has not only entertained audiences worldwide but has also served as a source of joy and laughter for many. It's refreshing to see someone who can make people smile with genuine humor, and your wit has undoubtedly left a lasting impact on those who have had the pleasure of experiencing it. What I find most remarkable is your unwavering commitment to never forget where you came from. In a world that can sometimes be forgetful and unforgiving, your humility in acknowledging your roots and the people who have supported you along the way is truly inspiring. Your humility is a testament to your character, and it resonates with fans like myself who appreciate authenticity and sincerity. I want to take a moment to express gratitude for the positive influence you've had on others. Your kindness has not only touched the lives of those you've worked with but has also reached fans like myself who look up to you not just as a talented actor but as a genuinely good human being. Thank you for being a beacon of light in an industry that sometimes seems to be dominated by shadows. Your humility, kindness, and funny wit have not only enhanced your performances but have also left an indelible mark on the hearts of those who have had the privilege of knowing you, even if only through your work. --Jared
hey, tom - you were in a couple episodes of a sitcom i wrote for lifetime television back in the 90s - you played john slattery's roommate. you were great. just effortlessly funny. unfortunately, the show didn't last, but we all felt lucky to have you. thanks for that. and for this film.
What an incredible insight. Thank you, thank you not just for that “thing you did on my screen” but thank you for sharing your faith, and doing your best to set a positive example regardless of circumstances.
Tom grew up in Wayne PA, and I grew up in Radnor, PA. a neighborhood suburbs of Philadelphia. My Dad went to Lower Merion High School and Tom went to Radnor High School. One of the biggest school rivals in Philadelphia.
the amount of work and acting that tom put into the back to the future trilogy is amazing the difference and likeness that biff, old biff, griff, and mad dog have is amazing and on top of it all tom is just a miracle of a human being! much love for you man!
I’ve met a few movie stars along my life, but I’ve never met Tom. After watching this, I don’t think I’ve had more respect to any famous person more than Tom. I hope to meet you one day Sir. Thank you for making this short film and sharing a piece of your life with us.
In that 58 minutes I laughed, cried, learned and was always entertained. What an hour! Thanks so much for doing this and sharing it. Even a small town boy like myself can definitely learn a thing or two by watching. God bless, Tom. You are indeed a good man.
I got to meet Tom 16 years ago or so but he has to be the nicest guy , he had a way of making you feel he's been part of your family or you've always knew him, wonderful wonderful man,.. i had to come back and add to my comment😂 I thought this was a tribute channel or a 80's icon channel until I seen the other comments🤣 so yeah Tom you are such a huge part of my greatest years and to meet your hero's can be dangerous it was awesome to find out how humble and down to earth you are, God bless and just make like a tree 😂🤟❤️
I met you at Megacon this year! When I told people about it, I was usually asked “Why would you want to meet the guy who played *Biff* instead of someone else?” But I’d seen more than just Biff. I saw an actor who played so many different characters in the spirit of the same role, and who seemed to just genuinely love what he was doing. And the way I always described you to others was “a really funny, humble dude.” The title of this sums that up pretty well 🤣 So thank you, Mr. Wilson. You shook my hand and asked my name- and that meant a lot more to me than I could express in the moment.
"Humbly Super Famous" is exactly why we all love Tom Wilson, even though he is famous he is down to earth and loves interacting with the fans even though they at times pick awful times to be a fan. I think it would be great to be able to sit and chat and see what other interests he had (IE sports, racing, cooking or whatever) I bet that would be a great conversation...
Man-oh-man! Batman was absolutely right. Tom Wilson is a good man. "Humbly Super Famous" is one of the best things I have ever seen on RU-vid. Thank you, Mr. Wilson.
Hey Tom, I am a friend of Adam's in Orlando... Pretty much the one friend who didn't meet you at megacon as I was home playing the husband and father game as I'm so very often known to do). Just wanted to take a second to say that I respect the heck out of you for being Tom and not " the actor who played Biff". Congrats on 38 years of marriage, four kids, and a whole bunch of grandkids. Also, can you please sign this limited edition commemorative back to the Future luggage rack?
This is random, but my husband's mother (before she died) _loved_ you! They used to watch Back to the Future all the time! Now that she's gone, me and him will lay and bed and watch that movie together in memory of her.
I JUST finished watching and HAD to stop and thank you for this. And as I clicked to add this comment, I realized that the comment below this is also me (two months ago) saying I just started watching it. I'm a full-time local guitar player here in the burbs of Chicago. I play in 8 great bands, teach guitar lessons 6 days a week, play guitar at church on Sundays and up until 2 weeks ago I helped out at my buddy's A/V installation company. I'm off from that job temporarily because I'm headed for hip surgery ASAP (standing and walking can be excruciating for me right now). I've had to play my gigs with my bands while sitting in a chair, but at least I can still play. AAAaaaanyway..... This morning I woke up again to some horrible leg pain and just said that I would let myself enjoy something this morning to get my mind off the pain while waiting for the Norco to kick in. Finishing this awesome documentary was EXACTLY what I needed. And of course I had a cartoon-like shaking of the head when your daughters told the story about you just after hip surgery. :) Well, I just wanted to say how much I LOVED this movie. Thank you for sharing what it's like. I've always wanted to be a touring guitar player, a sideman for a successful artist/band playing great music to millions of people - but with the benefit of not having to deal with any of the crazy stuff that comes with fame. Besides of course being a fan of the BTTF movies, I've been an even bigger fan of your comedy for decades. If you ever get out to do more live comedy, please do not forget to book some shows in the Chicago area! :) Last but certainly not least, thank for for sharing the story about your mom's passing. I empathized SO much with your story because that was pretty much the exact same description I give people about my mom's passing at the hospital with her surrounded by her family as her heartbeat remained slow until everyone was there, then as we were with her while our close family friend/priest gave her last rights, her heartbeat slowed and God brought her home in the most peaceful way one could pray for. While watching you share your story, my head shook slowly in stunned disbelief at the guy you had to deal with. I'm SO sorry you had to go through that. :( Again, thank you SO much for this movie. It was fun, informative, beautiful, and also so well done. All the best and continued so-well-deserved success! (And again, please come out to Chicago for some stand-up!) :)
Tom's daughter Emily said that she is "a public figure in a much smaller way." Emily is an amazing Catholic speaker and recently spoke to 17,000 college students at a conference in St. Louis. She's is doing lot for college students searching their way through messy relationships and life. Emily is doing big things for the Catholic church! Her father's virtue and Catholic faith is a testament to that!
When you said the name of Jesus... I lost it, siting at my desk, on my work lunch break. Here is this man I never met, his art brought me such an escape from abuse, as a child and adult, and he will one day be in heaven with me. Brother, I lost it. Praise the Lord!!
I just clicked on this for shits and giggle….what a surprisingly sweet little documentary. I dunno what other film in my lifetime is as loved by multiple generations of audiences.
Can I call you my friend? You don't know me, but this, THIS was SO good, you've actually improved my quality of life. I don't have enough people like you in my life. Thanks man. Seriously. After Back to the Future, I thought you were fantastic in the video game "Wing Commander IV: The Price of Freedom", 1995, PC version. I played that game JUST to see what your character would say next. Seriously. "Well, sounds like you memorized that speech, good for you...". 🤣You're Adam West story, priceless. Your sense of humor and timing is just brilliant. I appreciate what you do. Thanks again friend... err, Tom... I mean to say, Mr. Wilson. 😎
You may never read this, but: Amazing job! I loved it, and thank you for giving us a glimpse into your big head! I loved the movies when I was young, and now I love them for an entirely different reason, I love BttF because of the memories of watching, laughing, enjoying them with loved ones that are no longer here. Nostalgia, memories, is why so many of us hold actors like yourself up higher than the rest of humanity. You remind us of good times that are long gone and like the time machine those movies port us back to times we cherish. When people see actors they are instantly brought back to those times, so they are forcibly drawn to you and compelled to bug you, to tell you about this time or that, ask for a photo or signature, and thank you for those memories. Thank you, Tom, for being a part of mine.
Biff was a complex character. He’s truly an artist. His paintings are incredible too! If you haven’t seen his paintings it’s a true treat to look at. Some of his stuff reminds me of Wayne Thiebaud. One of my favorite modern painters of all time…
I’m sorry Tom, but I feel like I should have paid for this, and would have GLADLY paid for it. You sir, are extraordinarily articulating and captivating person. I was thoroughly entertained that entire 57 minutes. Bravo, bravo 👏
You truly are a renaissance man! Painter, singer, filmmaker, storyteller, actor, comedian…and asthmatic tuba player! Loved this film and hearing your story. Absolutely loved seeing your daughters gush over you - how you are so much more than your fame gives you credit for and what a good, kind, and gracious person you are!
As a huge fan of the franchise, along with millions of others. I share all the accolades that others tell you. However, I have something else to say, and that is that I appreciate so much more than anything else!. The way I see it, you are a wonderful steward of this mega movie franchise! You realize that not all the cast can be at the events with you, but you share their stories from your perspective of each cast member, you represent everyone. In particular, Michael J Fox. Knowing one of the faces of the franchise is having health issues and cannot always be there for the fans. Within a few minutes of you speaking, you make people feel that they have heard special stories and actually don't even realize that everyone has been represented by you in a touching and informal way. You give so much and represent all that's good about you! Your kindness with everyone makes you a beloved character both as Biff, but even more as Mr. Tom Wilson! Congrats my friend, I've never met you, however... I have watched a lot of the behind the scenes about the movies, and the conventions, and I've seen how generous you are with EVERYONE, so much so I feel I know you more as a complete person. Much thanks Randy
I love you very much, Tom. Thank you for uploading such an incredibably personal and honest account. I have learnt more about you, and myself as a consequence. You have put your heart on your sleeve, and I thank you for it.
This is TRULY one of the BEST VIDEOS I SEEN IN A VERY VERY LONG TIME! Thanks “Biff”…just kidding Mr. Wilson! Thanks for this! I’d just about lost all respect for the Hollywood people. Clearly you’re an incredible person, father, husband and more. I grew up in the 80s so of course Biff was well known to me. But I’m truly grateful to “meet” Tom & his beautiful family on this video! I think I’ll go watch Back to the Future with a new sense of respect! Blessings Brother! 🙏🏼
Whenever I get into a discussion about Back to the Future with anybody I'm always explaining what a underrated actor you are Tom. Back to the Future Part 2 you're doing the most work by playing not 1, not 2, not 3, but 4 characters. and you play them so damn well that the viewer believes you are that different character, it's just wild what you accomplished to make that storyline of events so believable. Thank you for putting in your talent. It would be an honor one day to meet you, sit down and talk about what that whole experience of acting the 4 characters was like back in that time.
Man. I've never been lucky enough to have met Tom Wilson, though i do know some family that he has in New Jersey. As a dad, i just love the way his kids talk about him. They have no idea how great that makes him feel. He'll always be the bully from those awesome movies, and he'll continue to be years and years after he's no longer here. And that's deserved and amazing, but it's obvious if you were to ask him, his acting accomplishments come second to his family. You can tell by how they are as people he did a great job raising all of them. He really does just seem such a genuinely great guy. I have Biff action figure on my wall, so I've always been a big fan. I didn't think i could watch an hour long video and become an even bigger fan.
In my childhood I was the most impressed by two villains: The Kurgan in Highlander (Clancy Brown) and YOU as Biff Tannen I always found some kind of similarity between these two villains, larger than life... You both actors left a strong impression on a whole generation, you both put so much intelligence in these two characters. M. Wilson and M. Brown, I don’t know if you know each other, but thank you so much for your work in these two movies, BTTF and Highlander. ❤😊
I'm here enjoying back to the future 3. 😊 I ❤ you in one in the 80's. But as I watching all 3 back to back. Damn great acting. I guess I'm appreciating it more because some of these new actors are interested. not in the way I always enjoy your acting almost all my life. It's crazy how I enjoy your work then and now and into Google I didn't know how many ways. Thanks for the joy you have given us. Me and my kids enjoyed from back to the future down to every animation you were in that we watched over and over.
