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Hollywood star backs Villa ahead of historic final
Oscar-winning actor Tom Hanks has sent a brief but enthusiastic message to Aston Villa supporters as the club prepares for its first European final in over four decades.
Hanks' message to fans
In an eight-second video shared with BBC Radio WM, the Hollywood icon declared his unwavering support. "This is Tom Hanks in the United States of America, thinking one thing and one thing only: go Villa," he said.
A night of firsts for Villa and Freiburg
The Birmingham-based club will face German side SC Freiburg in Wednesday's Europa League final-their first continental showpiece since lifting the European Cup in 1982. Freiburg, meanwhile, has never reached a major European final.
Royal and celebrity fans rally behind Villa
Hanks is not the only high-profile supporter. Prince William, the Prince of Wales and patron of the Football Association, has been a lifelong fan of the Midlands club. Earlier this month, he was photographed celebrating from the stands during Villa's 4-0 semi-final win over Nottingham Forest.
Manager Unai Emery later confirmed the prince joined post-match celebrations. "He was in the dressing room with the players and with me, and of course, he is so happy as well," Emery told reporters.
David Bradley recalls first Villa Park visit
Actor David Bradley, best known for his role as Argus Filch in the Harry Potter films, also shared his passion for the club. Speaking to the BBC, he recounted attending his first match in 1994 after years of being tied to Saturday matinee performances with the Royal Shakespeare Company.
"I never got a chance to go to Villa Park, but as soon as my contract finished in '94, I got tickets for a game against Everton. The atmosphere was so amazing."
David Bradley
Villa's road to the final
The club's journey to the Europa League final has reignited excitement among fans, with Wednesday's match marking a historic opportunity to add another European trophy to their cabinet.
