Tom Hanks was born on July 9, 1956, in Concord, California. He is a well-known actor who has seen success through multiple generations.
He is a rare exception in the entertainment industry that has found success in television and motion pictures.
Hanks began his acting career in the early 1980s, appearing in television shows such as "Bosom Buddies" and "Cheers." He made his film debut in 1984 with the comedy "Splash." Hanks' breakthrough role came in 1988 with the comedy "Big," for which he was nominated for an Academy Award.
Hanks went on to star in a number of critically acclaimed films, including "Philadelphia" (1993), "Forrest Gump" (1994), "Apollo 13" (1995), "Saving Private Ryan" (1998), and "Cast Away" (2000). He has won two Academy Awards, for "Philadelphia" and "Forrest Gump."
Hanks is known for his likable personality and his ability to connect with audiences. He is often cast in roles that require him to play ordinary people in extraordinary circumstances.
Since his second marriage, he converted to the Greek Orthodox Church, where he still attends regularly.
Family Overview
Tom Hanks came from a blue-collar family who worked hard and provided a stable home for him and his siblings. They married once and lived in the same area where they grew up.
His siblings all pursued something similar to Tom, with the exception of his sister, who works in education. They each seem to be down-to-earth folks despite their success.
His first marriage ended in divorce, but the couple remained friends afterward. He met his second wife originally on a set of a television show, and they reconnected later.
He had two children with each of his wives, and each of his children pursued a career in entertainment.
He was the narrator in Killing Lincoln, and since he is an ancestor of Abraham Lincoln he was the perfect fit.
Family Tree Chart
Parents:
Amos Mefford Hanks (1924–1992) - The father of Tom Hanks and three other children. He and his wife remained married until his death. His wife outlived him by 24 years.
Janet Marylyn Frager (1926–2016) - She was the mother of four children and a stay-at-home mom. She lived until she was 90 years of age.
Siblings
Larry Hanks (1952 - present) - He is the older brother of Hanks and is a writer and producer.
Sandra Hanks (1954 - present) She is the older sister of Hanks and works in education.
Jim Hanks (1961 - present) - He is the youngest sibling of the family and is a voice actor and puppeteer.
Wives
Samantha Lewes (1952 - 2002) - She was an actress and producer. She was Tom Hanks' first wife. They had two children together. She passed away from bone cancer in 2002.
Rita Wilson - She is an actress and singer and is Tom Hanks' second wife. They have two children together. They are one of the longest-running Hollywood couples.
Children
Colin Hanks (1977 - present) - He is an actor, producer, and director. He is best known for his roles in the films "Orange County," "King Kong," and "The House Bunny." He has also starred in the television series "Fargo" and "Life in Pieces."
Elizabeth Ann Hanks (1982 - present) - She is a writer and actress. She has written for several publications, including The Guardian and Vanity Fair. She has also appeared in films such as "Forrest Gump" and "That Thing You Do!"
Chet Hanks (1990 - present) - He is an actor, rapper, and personal trainer. He has appeared in the television series "Shameless" and "Empire." He has also released several rap singles.
Truman Theodore Hanks (1995 - present) - He is a camera operator. He has worked on the films "Black Widow" and "The Cloverfield Paradox."