Who Is Rita Wilson? 5 Things to Know About the Actress & Singer – Hollywood Life

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Rita Wilson’s name often makes headlines for her work on screen, her music, and her decades-long marriage to Tom Hanks. But in recent years, the 69-year-old actress has also drawn attention for speaking candidly about her health and personal journey.

More than a decade after her 2015 breast cancer diagnosis, Rita has continued to open up about that experience, including the support she received from her husband during that time. Now cancer-free, she has used her platform to advocate for early detection and second opinions while remaining active in Hollywood and beyond.

As she continues to share her story, learn more about Rita, her career, and family below.

She Starred in Beloved Films From the ’80s Through the 2000s

Rita has appeared in dozens of films across multiple decades. Some of her most notable roles include Sleepless in Seattle (1993), Mixed Nuts (1994), Now and Then (1995), That Thing You Do! (1996), Runaway Bride (1999), and It’s Complicated (2009).

She Co-Starred With Tom Hanks in the 1985 Film Volunteers

Rita and Tom shared the screen in the 1985 comedy Volunteers, though they had actually met a few years earlier when Rita guest-starred on his sitcom Bosom Buddies in 1981. At the time they filmed Volunteers, Tom was still married to his first wife, Samantha Lewes.

In a past interview with GQ, according to People, Tom recalled their connection, saying, “Rita and I just looked at each other and—kaboing—that was that,” noting their relationship felt undeniable. Tom and Samantha later divorced in 1987, and he married Rita in 1988. The couple has since remained together for more than three decades, becoming one of Hollywood’s longest-lasting marriages.

She’s Also a Singer-Songwriter With Multiple Albums

Rita has built a music career alongside her work in film and television. She released her debut album, AM/FM, in 2012 and has since put out several records, including Rita Wilson, Bigger Picture, and Halfway to Home. In 2026, she continued that trajectory with new music, including her album Sound of a Woman.

She Produced the My Big Fat Greek Wedding Film Franchise

Rita has also made a major impact behind the scenes as a producer. She helped bring My Big Fat Greek Wedding (2002) to life, which became one of the most successful romantic comedies of all time, and returned as a producer for its sequels, including My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2 (2016) and the 2023 third installment. She also served as a producer on the hit musical film Mamma Mia!.

She Shares Two Sons With Tom Hanks

Rita and Tom share two sons together. Their eldest, Chet Hanks, was born in 1990 and has pursued a career in acting and music, while their younger son, Truman Hanks, born in 1995, has worked in the film industry.