Is it possible to truly know a star without understanding the foundation upon which their brilliance was built? In the case of Tom Hanks, that foundation includes a woman who played a pivotal role in shaping the man we all know and admire: Samantha Lewes.

The story of Colin Hanks is inextricably linked to the legacy of his father, Tom Hanks, a name synonymous with cinematic success. Born Colin Lewes Dillingham on November 24, 1977, in Sacramento, California, Colin's journey through the world of acting has been marked by a unique blend of talent, dedication, and the unmistakable imprint of his famous lineage. He is an American actor, director, and producer, carving a distinct path in the entertainment industry, yet always connected to the foundation laid by his parents. Colin Hanks's career, while often seen through the prism of his father's fame, is a testament to his individual artistry and commitment to his craft. His journey began with a simple surname change, from Dillingham to Hanks, after his parents married in 1978, which placed him firmly in the trajectory of Hollywood royalty.

Category	Details
Full Name	Colin Lewes Dillingham (Known as Colin Hanks)
Date of Birth	November 24, 1977
Birthplace	Sacramento, California, USA
Nationality	American
Ethnicity	Ashkenazi Jewish and Portuguese
Parents	Tom Hanks and Samantha Lewes (born Dillingham)
Siblings	Elizabeth Hanks (Sister), Chet Hanks and Truman Hanks (Half-brothers)
Spouse	Samantha Bryant (Married May 8, 2010)
Children	Olivia Jane Hanks, Charlotte Bryant Hanks
Occupation	Actor, Director, Producer
Known For	"Orange County", "King Kong", "Fargo", "Roswell", "Jumanji"
Notable Roles	Shaun Brumder in "Orange County," Preston in "King Kong," Alex Whitman in "Roswell," Jack Bailey in "The Good Guys," Troy Gable in "The Great Buck Howard," and Oliver in "The House Bunny."
Official Website (Reference)	IMDb

Samantha Lewes, the woman who brought Tom Hanks into the world, also played a crucial, though often unsung, role in the early days of his career. She was not only the mother of his children, Colin and Elizabeth, but also a constant presence during his rise to stardom. While the spotlight shone brightly on Tom, Samantha provided the essential support system that allowed him to navigate the tumultuous waters of Hollywood. Her influence extended beyond her role as a wife and mother; she was, in many ways, the supporting bone of Hanks during his struggling life, as some would describe her. Lewes was there for him during his ups and downs, a steady presence that helped shape the man we know today. This is a narrative often untold, yet it is critical to understanding the full picture of Tom Hanks' journey.

Colin Hanks's journey, however, has been entirely his own. From his early roles to his more recent projects, he has demonstrated a versatile talent and a knack for selecting compelling projects. He carries the Hanks name with a sense of pride, yet carves his own path. His roles in films like "Orange County" and "King Kong," as well as his work in television series such as "Fargo" and "Roswell," have showcased his ability to portray a diverse range of characters. He has proven himself as a talented actor and a formidable force in the entertainment industry. His work behind the camera further demonstrates his artistic versatility.

The impact of his parents, Tom Hanks and Samantha Lewes, has undoubtedly shaped his perspective and work ethic. He has spoken openly about the influence of his upbringing and the values instilled in him. His American nationality is a part of the culture that he and his father are very much a part of, with an Ashkenazi Jewish and Portuguese ethnicity that adds another layer of depth to his identity.

His filmography is diverse, showcasing his range and commitment to his craft. Films like "Orange County" (where he played Shaun Brumder) and "King Kong" (as Preston) provided early platforms for his talent. Later, he would delve into television, with notable roles in "Roswell," "Fargo," and "American Crime Story," each of which further solidified his reputation as a versatile performer. Furthermore, his work as a director and producer demonstrates a broader creative vision.

Colin Hanks career trajectory is a testament to his dedication. This actor, director, and producer, son of Tom Hanks and the late Samantha Lewes, has built a career that stands on its own merit. He is an American actor and filmmaker, best known for his roles in "Fargo," "King Kong," and "Jumanji." He has appeared in a range of genres, demonstrating his ability to adapt to different roles. Whether in movies like "Orange County" and "King Kong" or television shows like "Roswell" and "Band of Brothers," he has consistently delivered compelling performances. The diversity of his roles reflects a keen understanding of his craft and a willingness to take on new challenges.

Hanks shares son Colin Hanks and daughter Elizabeth Hanks with his first wife, Samantha Lewes, highlighting the significance of family in his life and career. The values instilled by both his parents, and the support of his siblings, have clearly played a vital role in his professional journey. He also is father to sons Chet Hanks, and Truman Hanks whom he raised with longtime wife Rita Wilson.

The journey of Colin Hanks is one of both legacy and individual achievement. He embraced his heritage while making a name for himself in a competitive industry. He is known for his roles in movies, such as 'King Kong,' 'Orange County,' 'The Great Buck Howard,' and 'The House Bunny.' He navigates Hollywood with his distinct style, leaving a lasting impression. The career of Colin Hanks is a journey marked by both the shadow of his father's achievements and his personal commitment to his craft.

The filming of 'Orange County,' was his first lead role, in which he starred opposite Jack Black. This was a turning point in his career. The film showcases a blend of comedy and character depth, which has become a hallmark of his work. Through this project, he demonstrated his capacity to lead a film and showcase a memorable performance.

He has consistently chosen projects that showcase his range and talent. His filmography includes a variety of genres, from comedy to drama, demonstrating his versatility as an actor. This adaptability has enabled him to work with a range of directors and co-stars, further enhancing his experience and skills.

Colin Hanks continues to be a prominent figure in the entertainment industry. He is committed to his craft, and his work has garnered critical praise and a devoted fan base. His success demonstrates that he is a talented individual. His career reflects not only his artistic aptitude but also his capacity to build a distinct legacy in the competitive world of entertainment.

To fully appreciate Colin Hanks' career, one must understand the impact of his parents, most notably his mother, Samantha Lewes. She was the foundation that supported Tom Hanks rise to fame, and she also played a significant role in Colin's upbringing and approach to his career. His success is a testament to his own skill, but it is also a reflection of the values and opportunities he was afforded.

Explore the complete filmography of colin hanks to learn more about his career. His highest rated, upcoming and past projects, and explore his filmography on rotten tomatoes.