Samantha Lewes: The Untold Story Of Tom Hanks' First Wife

What do we truly know about the woman who was once at the heart of Hollywood, a woman who shared a life with one of the industry's most beloved figures?


Samantha Lewes, though often mentioned in the context of her marriage to Tom Hanks, was, in her own right, a woman of talent and ambition, a dedicated actress whose story deserves to be told beyond the shadow of her famous ex-husband.

Born Susan Jane Dillingham on November 29, 1952, in San Diego, California, Lewes embarked on a path that would intertwine her destiny with the world of entertainment. She wasn't just a footnote in someone else's story; she was a person with dreams, aspirations, and a unique journey of her own. Her legacy extends beyond the headlines, encompassing her contributions to the world of acting and her role in shaping the lives of those closest to her.

Attribute Details
Full Name Susan Jane Dillingham (Known as Samantha Lewes)
Date of Birth November 29, 1952
Place of Birth San Diego, California, USA
Date of Death March 12, 2002
Place of Death Sacramento, California, USA
Height 5 feet 7 inches (1.7 meters)
Weight 60 kilograms (132 pounds)
Ethnicity White
Parents John Raymond Dillingham (Father) and Harriet Hall Dillingham (Mother)
Spouse Tom Hanks (Married January 24, 1978; Divorced March 19, 1987)
Children Colin Hanks, Elizabeth Hanks
Known For Actress, First wife of Tom Hanks
Education Sacramento State University
Notable Works "Bosom Buddies" (1981), "Mr. Success" (1984)

Reference: IMDB

Lewes's connection to Tom Hanks, who she met at Sacramento State University, is undeniable. They married in 1978 and their bond produced two children, Colin and Elizabeth, both of whom have followed in their parents' footsteps to forge careers in the entertainment industry. Their marriage, however, was not destined to last. The couple divorced in 1987, but their shared history and the children they raised together ensure Lewes's place in the narrative of Hanks's life and career.

Before her marriage to Hanks, and independent of it, Lewes was an actress. While her career was not marked by an extensive list of credits, her appearances in television and film offered glimpses into her talent and passion for the craft. In 1981, she appeared in an episode of the ABC sitcom "Bosom Buddies," a show that also featured her then-husband, Tom Hanks, at the start of his career. The show, a comedic exploration of gender roles and urban living, provided a platform for her to showcase her acting abilities.

Another notable credit in Lewes's filmography is the television movie "Mr. Success," released in 1984. These roles, though not defining, reflect her dedication to acting and provided an opportunity for her to collaborate with her husband on screen.

The circumstances of Samantha Lewes's life took a tragic turn when she battled cancer. Her passing on March 12, 2002, at the age of 49, cut short a life that had already seen its share of triumphs and challenges. While the specifics of her private life remained largely shielded from the public eye, her untimely death added a layer of poignancy to her story.

Lewes's story also touches upon the complexities of personal relationships and the pressures of fame. Her marriage to Hanks coincided with his rising stardom, a period during which he transitioned from a relative unknown to a household name. While the marriage ultimately ended, it played a significant role in shaping both their lives, and the lives of their children.

Colin Hanks, who was born in 1977, has carved out a successful acting career of his own, with roles in films like "Orange County," "King Kong," and "The House Bunny," and the television series "Fargo" and "Life in Pieces." Elizabeth Hanks, born in 1982, has also ventured into the entertainment industry. Their accomplishments serve as a testament to the values instilled in them and the legacy of both their parents.

Lewes's journey, as much as it was intertwined with Hanks's, was uniquely hers. Despite the challenges and the eventual end of her marriage, she remained a mother, a creative individual, and a person who sought to express herself through acting.

The actresss early life provides some insight into the woman she would become. Born in San Diego, California, she was a California native. She attended Sacramento State University, where she crossed paths with Tom Hanks. This meeting proved pivotal, setting in motion a series of events that would shape the course of their lives.

Lewess decision to pursue acting, while not leading to widespread fame, shows her desire to engage in creative endeavors. Her appearances in "Bosom Buddies" and "Mr. Success" are evidence of her commitment to her craft. These roles, while not as high-profile as some of Hankss projects, offer a glimpse into her abilities and her passion for acting.

The end of the marriage between Lewes and Hanks was a watershed moment. They finalized their divorce in 1987. The separation was difficult for the couple. Hanks, in interviews given later, acknowledged the painful aspects of the breakup, showing a human side to the public figure.

Samantha Lewes's legacy is also evident in the lives of her children. Colin and Elizabeth, influenced by their parents, decided to pursue acting careers, with Colin achieving notable success in film and television. Their successes serve as a tribute to Lewes's influence and values.

While her life was marked by the glitz of Hollywood and the private struggles known only to those closest to her, the story of Samantha Lewes encourages us to examine the layers of a life, to appreciate the individual contributions that form each persons identity, and to remember that even those overshadowed by fame leave behind legacies that continue to resonate.

Looking beyond the headlines and the well-known names, Samantha Lewess narrative is a reminder of the multifaceted nature of human experience. It compels us to move beyond the superficial and recognize the individuals behind the public figures. Her story is a testament to the power of resilience, the impact of personal choices, and the enduring influence of love and family.

Ultimately, Samantha Lewes's story is one of a woman who lived, loved, and left her mark on the world, even if her name is primarily linked to the famous actor she once married. It underscores that every life is unique, and every person's journey contributes to the intricate tapestry of human experience.

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