Has played a homeless man in episodes of three different series: "ER" (1994), "Malcolm in the Middle" (2000) and "Joan of Arcadia" (2003).
In the season 4 Seinfeld episode, "The Pilot," he portrayed an actor playing a character based on Cosmo Kramer. In real life, Hankin auditioned for the role of Kramer and was series co-creator Larry David's first choice during casting, as he felt Hankin was most similar to his friend Kenny Kramer who the character was based on; however, Michael Richards was ultimately cast.
Studied acting at Syracuse University, Syracuse New York. In same class with Frank Langella and Carl Gottlieb.
Was a member of the comedy improvisation groups Second City (Chicago) and The Committee (San Francisco).
Was considered for the role of Detective Vukovich in The Terminator (1984).