Samantha Lewes the woman who stood by his side during his early struggles. Born in 1952, Samantha was an actress and Tom Hanks’ first wife. They met in college, fell in love, and got married young. Life wasn’t easy for them. They faced financial struggles, barely making ends meet.
But they had each other and their two children, Colin and Elizabeth.As Tom’s career took off in the 1980s, their marriage started falling apart. They divorced in 1987, and Samantha chose to live a private life. Sadly, in 2002, she passed away from bone cancer at just 49 years old.
Her story is one of love, sacrifice, and heartbreak. She is a woman who played a massive role in Tom Hanks’ journey but remained out of the spotlight.
Table of Contents
Samantha Lewes Bio/Wiki
Category | Details |
---|---|
Full Name | Samantha Lewes |
Born | November 29, 1952 |
Birthplace | San Diego, California, USA |
Died | March 12, 2002 (aged 49) |
Cause of Death | Bone Cancer |
Occupation | Actress |
Notable Roles | Appeared in Bosom Buddies (1981), Mr. Success (1984) |
Spouse | Tom Hanks (married 1978–1987) |
Children | Colin Hanks, Elizabeth Ann Hanks |
Parents | John Raymond Dillingham, Harriet Hall Dillingham |
Marriage | Married Tom Hanks in 1978, divorced in 1987 |
Relationship Status | Divorced from Tom Hanks, lived a private life after divorce |
Legacy | Mother of Colin and Elizabeth, significant in Tom Hanks’ early life |
Who is Samantha Lewes?
Samantha Lewes played an essential role in Hollywood’s history. Born as Susan Jane Dillingham on November 29, 1952, in San Diego, California, she was an actress known for minor roles in TV and theatre. However, her most significant connection to Hollywood came from her marriage to Tom Hanks.
She and Hanks met in college, fell in love, and married in 1978. They faced financial struggles early on, doing whatever they could to support their growing family. Their son, Colin Hanks, was born in 1977, followed by their daughter, Elizabeth. As Hanks’ career took off, their marriage suffered.

They divorced in 1987, and Samantha Lewes chose to live a private life away from the spotlight. Sadly, her life was cut short. Samantha Lewes’ cause of death was bone cancer, a heartbreaking diagnosis she received in the late 1990s. She passed away on March 12, 2002, at just 49 years old.
Her funeral was a private affair, attended by close family and loved ones. Samantha Lewes’ funeral was a quiet farewell to a woman who dedicated her life to her children and remained strong through life’s challenges.
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Samantha Lewes Early Life and Family

Samantha Lewes was raised in San Diego, California. She loved acting and dreamed of performing as a child. That passion led her to pursue a career in the entertainment industry.
Her life changed when she met Tom Hanks. The two fell deeply in love and married in 1978. Together, they built a life filled with dreams, struggles, and love. But her most cherished role wasn’t on-screen—it was being a mother. Samantha Lewes’ children, Colin and Elizabeth Hanks, were the center of her world. She supported them in every way, shaping their futures with her love and wisdom.
Even after her divorce from Hanks in 1987, she remained dedicated to her family. Sadly, she passed away in 2002 from bone cancer, leaving behind a lasting impact. Today, Samantha Lewes children have successful careers in Hollywood, often discussing how their mother’s love and guidance shaped their lives. Though she is gone, her legacy lives on through them.
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Samantha Lewes Amazing Career

When you think of Samantha Lewes, you probably remember her as Tom Hanks’ first wife. But did you know she had a passion for acting? Though her career was brief, she left a mark with her performances.
One of the most notable Samantha Lewes movies and TV shows was Bosom Buddies (1981), a sitcom in which Tom Hanks played one of the lead roles. She appeared in an episode, showing her talent and love for the craft. Then, in 1984, she starred in Mr. Success, a TV movie in which she impressed audiences with her performance.
Unlike her husband, Samantha Lewes didn’t pursue Hollywood fame. Instead, she chose to focus on her family and children. She loved acting, but being a mother came first. Her career may have been short, but it was meaningful. She proved that passion isn’t always about fame—it’s about doing what you love, even for a while.
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Samantha Lewes Achievements
Samantha Lewes had an essential place in Hollywood history. She was an actress who appeared in the ABC sitcom Bosom Buddies in 1981 and the TV movie Mr. Success in 1984. While her acting career was short, she was talented and passionate.
Beyond acting, Samantha Lewes was known as Tom Hanks’s first wife. They got married in 1978 when they were both young and struggling. Life wasn’t easy, but they built a family together. She was the loving mother of two children, Colin Hanks and Elizabeth Ann Hanks, who followed in their father’s footsteps in the entertainment industry.
Her most significant legacy isn’t just her work. It’s the love and impact she left on those who knew her. Even after her divorce from Tom Hanks in 1987, she remained a devoted mother and lived a private life. Sadly, she passed away in 2002 due to bone cancer, but her story remains unforgettable. Samantha Lewes may not have been a household name, but her influence on those around her, especially her family, will always be remembered.
Samantha Lewes controversies
When you hear about Samantha Lewes, you mostly think of her as Tom Hanks’ first wife and the mother of his children. But did you know that their relationship had its fair share of struggles? While there were no major scandals, some controversies surrounded their marriage and divorce.
In the early days, Tom Hanks and Samantha Lewes struggled financially. They were young, broke, and trying to raise a family. But as Tom Hanks became famous, things changed. Some reports suggest that his growing success put pressure on their marriage. Eventually, in 1987, they divorced.
One of the most significant controversies was how quickly Tom Hanks moved on. He started dating Rita Wilson shortly after the divorce, leading to rumors that their relationship started earlier. Some believe this may have deeply hurt Samantha Lewes.
After the divorce, Samantha Lewes stayed away from the spotlight. She focused on raising her kids and lived a quiet life. Sadly, she passed away from bone cancer in 2002. While her name wasn’t linked to scandals, her story is about love, heartbreak, and resilience.
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Samantha Lewes Movies and TV Shows
TV Shows:
- Bosom Buddies (1980-1982): She appeared as a waitress in an episode of this ABC sitcom.
- Grange Hill (1978): She had a role in this British television series.
Movies:
- Mr. Success (1984): She played the role of a customer in this TV movie.
Samantha’s career was relatively short, but she made memorable contributions to the projects she was involved in
Samantha Lewes Height, Weight, and Physical Appearance
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Height | 5 feet 4 inches (163 cm) |
Weight | Approximately 120 lbs (54 kg) |
Hair Color | Dark Brown |
Eye Color | Brown |
Complexion | Fair |
Samantha Lewes Husband/Boyfriend and Relationship Status

Samantha Lewes husband was Tom Hanks, but their journey together had ups and downs. They met in college at California State University, Sacramento. Their relationship quickly grew, and by early 1977, they were expecting their first child. At that time, life was tough for them financially, and things got even harder once they had children.
Their first child, Samantha Lewes child, Colin Hanks, was born on November 24, 1977, while they still lived in Sacramento. The couple got married shortly after, on January 24, 1978. In 1979, they moved to New York City, where Tom began gaining some recognition as an actor and comedian.
The family later moved to Los Angeles, and in 1982, they welcomed their second child, Elizabeth. Though Tom’s career was thriving, their relationship began to suffer. In 1984, after six years of marriage, the couple separated. They finalized their divorce on March 19, 1987.
After their separation, Tom married Rita Wilson in 1988, with whom he had two sons, Chester and Truman. Samantha Lewes lived a private life after her divorce, raising her children and staying out of the spotlight.
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Samantha Lewes Net Worth
Samantha Lewes was known for her acting career and being Tom Hanks’ first wife. While her career as an actress included appearances in TV shows like Bosom Buddies and a TV movie called Mr. Success, she didn’t reach the level of fame that her ex-husband did. Because of this, Samantha Lewes’ net worth isn’t well-documented or widely known.
However, some sources suggest that her net worth could have been around $15 million by 2023. This estimate likely comes from her acting roles and the financial arrangements following her marriage to Tom Hanks. As Hanks rose to stardom in the 1980s, their life together changed, and after their divorce, Samantha continued to live a quiet life.
Even though she was not in the public eye after their split, it’s believed that she received financial support, which could have contributed to her estimated wealth. While it’s hard to determine her exact Samantha Lewes net worth, it’s clear that her role in Tom Hanks’ early life and career was personally and possibly financially significant. Samantha Lewes was known for her acting career and being Tom Hanks’ first wife.
While her career as an actress included appearances in TV shows like Bosom Buddies and a TV movie called Mr. Success, she didn’t reach the level of fame that her ex-husband did. Because of this, Samantha Lewes’ net worth isn’t well-documented or widely known.
However, some sources suggest that her net worth could have been around $15 million by 2023. This estimate likely comes from her acting roles and the financial arrangements following her marriage to Tom Hanks. As Hanks rose to stardom in the 1980s, their life together changed, and after their divorce, Samantha continued to live a quiet life.
Even though she was not in the public eye after their split, it’s believed that she received financial support, which could have contributed to her estimated wealth. While it’s hard to determine her exact Samantha Lewes net worth, it’s clear that her role in Tom Hanks’ early life and career was personally and possibly financially significant.
Samantha Lewes Hobbies and Interests
Hobbies:
- Gardening: She enjoyed spending time in her garden.
- Reading: Samantha was a fan of books.
- Drinking Tea: She liked to relax with a cup of tea.
- Spending Time with Her Children: Family was important to her.
- Movies: As an actress, she had a passion for films.
Interests:
- Acting: She pursued a career in acting.
- Modeling: She initially wanted to become a model.
- Family: She valued her relationships with her family.
- Education: She studied acting at California State University, Sacramento.
- Travel: Growing up, she lived in various places across the US
Samantha Lewes Plan and Goals
Plans:
- Acting Career: She planned to continue acting, as evidenced by her roles in “Bosom Buddies” and “Mr. Success.”
- Family Focus: After her divorce from Tom Hanks, she planned to focus on raising her children, Colin and Elizabeth.
- Supporting Her Children’s Careers: She likely planned to support her children in their pursuits in the entertainment industry.
- Health Management: After her cancer diagnosis, she would have planned to manage her health and treatment.
- Personal Growth: Like many people, she likely had personal development and growth plans.
Goals:
- Successful Acting Career: She aimed to achieve success in her acting career.
- Happy Family Life: She wanted a loving and stable environment for her children.
- Overcoming Challenges: She aimed to overcome personal and professional challenges, including her battle with cancer.
- Supporting Her Children: She wanted to see her children succeed in their careers.
- Legacy: She likely hoped to leave a positive legacy through her work and family.
Samantha Lewes Social Media
Samantha Lewes is on social media, but you won’t find her. She lived in a time before platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter became popular. Unlike today’s celebrities, she preferred to stay private. Even though she married Tom Hanks, one of Hollywood’s biggest stars, she kept her life out of the public eye.
Samantha was an actress, but she only appeared in a few roles. After her divorce from Tom Hanks in 1987, she lived a quiet life away from the spotlight. If she were alive today, would she be active on social media? Maybe, but she likely would have stayed private based on her past.
Many fans are curious about her, but since she passed away in 2002, there are no official accounts in her name. If you see any social media pages claiming to be hers, they are not real.
Fun Facts about Samantha Lewes
- Early Life in California: Samantha was born in San Diego, California, in 1952. She grew up in a warm, sunny place that shaped her easy-going nature.
- College Sweethearts: Samantha and Tom Hanks met in college. They quickly fell in love, and their relationship grew strong even when they were both young.
- Acting Career: Samantha had a minor acting career before becoming a mom. In 1981, she appeared in an episode of the ABC sitcom Bosom Buddies, which starred Tom Hanks. She also appeared in a TV movie called Mr. Success in 1984.
- Motherhood: Samantha was the proud mother of Colin Hanks and Elizabeth Ann Hanks, who followed in their father’s footsteps and became successful in the entertainment industry.
- Private Life: After her divorce from Tom in 1987, Samantha chose to live a quiet, private life away from the spotlight, focusing on her children and personal happiness.
- Tragic End: Sadly, Samantha passed away in 2002 at the age of 49 due to bone cancer, but she is still remembered for the vital role she played in Tom Hanks’ early life.
Samantha Lewes Video and Image
Samantha Lewes video and Samantha Lewes image, you may find only a few. She lived a very private life, even when married to Tom Hanks. Samantha was an actress but appeared in only a few projects. Unlike many Hollywood stars, she stayed away from the spotlight.

After her divorce, she chose to live quietly. Sadly, she passed away in 2002 due to bone cancer. If you search online, you might find rare photos from her younger days and a few clips from her acting career.
Frequently Asked Questions about Samantha Lewes
Who is Samantha Lewes?
Samantha Lewes, born in 1952 in San Diego, California, was an actress and the first wife of famous actor Tom Hanks. She appeared in a few TV shows and movies, including an episode of the sitcom Bosom Buddies and the TV movie Mr. Success. She is also the mother of Tom Hanks’ children, Colin and Elizabeth Hanks.
What happened to Samantha Lewes?
Samantha Lewes sadly passed away in 2002 at the age of 49 due to bone cancer. After her divorce from Tom Hanks in 1987, she lived a more private life, away from the media spotlight.
Who was Samantha Lewes on Bosom Buddies?
Samantha Lewes had a guest appearance on Bosom Buddies, the TV show that helped Tom Hanks gain early recognition. She played a small role in one episode of the show in 1981, which was one of her few acting credits.
How long was Tom Hanks married to his first wife?
Tom Hanks was married to Samantha Lewes for 9 years. They got married in 1978 and divorced in 1987. Despite their separation, they remained good parents to their two children, Colin and Elizabeth.
Conclusion
Samantha Lewes story is about love, challenges, and eventual loss. As Tom Hanks’ first wife, she played an essential role in his early life, supporting him during his struggles before his rise to fame. Though filled with love, their marriage was marked by financial hardships and personal sacrifices. Despite their eventual divorce, Samantha remained a devoted mother to their two children, Colin Hanks and Elizabeth Hanks.
After their separation, she lived quietly, away from the public eye. Unfortunately, she passed away at the young age of 49 from bone cancer, leaving behind a legacy that few knew about. Though she never craved the spotlight, her impact on Tom’s and her children’s lives remains significant. Samantha Lewes’ story reminds us of the quiet strength and sacrifices many make behind the scenes.