Tom Hanks avoids race row

Tom Hanks has narrowly avoided a race row. The 'Da Vinci Code' star was attending a party at lavish nightspot Tavern on the Green, in New York, when he reportedly told Alex Wong - the frontman for US rockers The Animators - that he "looked like one of those pedicab drivers". According to onlookers the singer was shocked by the comment, but a spokesperson for Hanks, was quick to clarify the remark. She explained to the New York Post newspaper: "He only meant that he was impressed with his physique because he was so muscular and lean like the guys who drive pedicabs all day." The 49-year-old actor was recently forced to hire extra bodyguards over fears controversial movie 'The Da Vinci Code' could put his family at risk from disgruntled Christian groups. A source said at the time: "Tom and director Ron Howard try to play it all down, but religion is a very sensitive subject. "There is no question that some people are very offended by elements of the story."