Tom Hanks has always been a talented showman from the moment he stepped foot on a stage – that much has been obvious. The true mystery lies in his success when it comes to matters of the heart. In this regard, Hanks has been tremendously blessed.
So what's the secret to having one of the longest-lasting Hollywood marriages? Hanks, 51, has been married twice; first to American actress Samantha Lewes, with whom he had two children, and secondly to Rita Wilson, 51. His first marriage was very brief, lasting only 9 years. During that period, Lewes gave birth to Colin Hanks and daughter Elizabeth Ann. Although their marriage appeared to be harmonious, there was underlying conflict which the couple could not overcome. They separated in 1987, only one year before Hanks married Wilson.
Hanks believes that his meeting Wilson was destiny. “I'm the luckiest man alive,” he's stated on countless occasions. This year the couple proudly boasts 20 beautiful years of marriage without a rain cloud in sight. “My secret to a happy marriage is just being married to the right woman.” He also contributes his success on his experience with girls at an early age. “In highschool, I mostly majored in hanging out and flirting” - but he says he still managed to get straight A's. Hanks is indeed, a man of many talents.
Hanks and Wilson first crossed paths in 1980 on the set of Hank's tv show, Bosom Buddies, however romance didn't spark up until they worked together years later on the film, Volunteers. Hanks remembered falling “head over heels” with her sharp wit and brilliant smile. Within a few short years, Hanks converted from Roman Catholic to Eastern Orthodox Christianity alongside Wilson who was an adamant religious follower. Together they had two sons, Truman and Chester.
In 2002, Lewes - with whom Hanks had kept an amiable friendship for the sake of the children - died of bone cancer in Sacramento. Since then, Hanks and Wilson have done their best to ensure that their family stays supportive and close.
Just a few years ago, Hanks and Wilson guest-starred on the Oprah Winfrey show. When asked by Oprah about their relationship, Hanks quickly replied, “I'm a lucky man. Rita could have done better. But you know, every now and again, you win the lottery. That's why you should buy those tickets! You know what I'm saying?” We should all take Hank's advice and take a chance. His secret? - luck, faith, and true love.
The Secret to a Happy Marriage
Posted: 2008-03-05 12:27:03 By: Kirsten Kapsin

