Tom Hanks, the beloved actor, and filmmaker, has been married to Rita Wilson for over three decades. While Hanks’ career has been extensively covered, his wife, Rita, has often flown under the radar.
However, Rita Wilson is a talented actress, producer, and philanthropist in her own right. Here, we’ll delve into Rita’s life, exploring her early years, her rise to fame, and her personal struggles, as well as her enduring marriage to Tom Hanks.
Early Life and Career
Rita Wilson was born Margarita Ibrahimoff on October 26, 1956, in Los Angeles, California. Her father, Hassan Ibrahimoff, was a Bulgarian immigrant, and her mother, Dorothea, was a Greek immigrant. Growing up in a multicultural household, Rita developed a strong appreciation for the arts. She began her acting career in the early 1980s, landing small roles in TV shows and films.
Rita’s breakthrough role came in 1982 when she played the role of Lisa in the TV series “MAS*H.” Her performance earned her a nomination for the Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series.
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Rita appeared in various TV shows and films, including “The Good Wife,” “Girls,” and “Jingle All the Way.” In 2002, she co-produced the Emmy-nominated TV movie “My Big Fat Greek Wedding,” which became a massive commercial success.
Personal Life and Marriage to Tom Hanks
Rita met Tom Hanks on the set of the TV series “Bosom Buddies” in 1981. The two began dating and eventually tied the knot on April 30, 1988. They have two sons, Chet and Truman, born in 1990 and 1996, respectively. Rita has been instrumental in supporting Tom’s career, often accompanying him to premieres and awards ceremonies.
In 2015, Rita was diagnosed with invasive lobular carcinoma, a type of breast cancer. She underwent a double mastectomy and reconstructive surgery, followed by radiation therapy.
Rita’s experience led her to become an advocate for breast cancer awareness, encouraging women to prioritize their health and undergo regular screenings.
Rita and Tom’s marriage has been a beacon of stability in the often-tumultuous world of Hollywood. The couple has been together for over 35 years, and their relationship is built on mutual respect, trust, and a deep understanding of each other’s passions and interests.
In a 2020 interview, Tom Hanks credited Rita with being his “favorite person” and praised her for her unwavering support throughout his career.
Philanthropy and Humanitarian Work
Rita is an active philanthropist, supporting various charitable organizations, including the American Cancer Society and the Rape Treatment Center at Santa Monica-UCLA Medical Center. In 2016, she was honored with the Courage Award by the National Breast Cancer Coalition for her advocacy work.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How long have Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson been married?
Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson have been married for over 36 years, tying the knot on April 30, 1988.
What was Rita Wilson’s breakthrough role?
Rita’s breakthrough role came in 1982 when she played the role of Lisa in the TV series “MAS*H.”
Is Rita Wilson Greek?
Yes, her mother was Greek, and Rita proudly embraces her Greek heritage.
