.png)
When people look at Hollywood dynasties, they often wonder how the next generation handles the pressure of a massive legacy. Tom Hanks built a career on being America's dad, but at home, he is simply a father to four children and a grandfather to three girls. Understanding the Hanks family tree means looking beyond the red carpets to see who is carving out their own path in entertainment and creative fields.
Navigating life under the shadow of a two-time Oscar winner isn't straightforward. Some children embraced the spotlight early, while others chose writing, behind-the-scenes production, or music. Here is the complete breakdown of Tom Hanks' children and grandchildren, what they do, and how they are shaping their own identities.
The Hanks Siblings: A Four-Child Legacy
Tom Hanks shares four children across two marriages. His older two children, Colin and Elizabeth, come from his first marriage to Samantha Lewes. His younger two sons, Chet and Truman, come from his long-standing marriage to Rita Wilson.
Colin Hanks
Born in 1977, Colin Hanks is the most recognizable face of the sibling group among mainstream audiences. He chose to follow his father directly into acting and has built an impressive resume filled with both comedic and dramatic roles.
You might recognize Colin from television shows like Fargo, Mad Men, and Life in Pieces, or films like Orange County and King Kong. Aside from acting, he directs documentary films, including All Things Must Pass, a deep dive into the rise and fall of Tower Records. He manages to balance a busy production schedule with family life alongside his wife, Samantha Bryant.
Elizabeth Anne Hanks
Elizabeth, born in 1982, took a different route from her father and oldest brother. She works professionally under the name E.A. Hanks as a writer, journalist, and editor.
Her writing has appeared in major publications like Vanity Fair, The Guardian, Time, and The New York Times. While she made brief, uncredited appearances in classic films like Forrest Gump (playing the girl on the school bus) as a child, she ultimately found her true passion behind a keyboard rather than in front of a studio camera.
Chet Hanks
Born in 1990, Chester—known publicly as Chet—is the first child born to Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson. Chet carved out a niche in the entertainment industry as both an actor and a musician, often releasing hip-hop tracks under the name Chet Hanx.
His acting credits feature recurring television roles in series like Empire, Shameless, and Your Honor. Chet has occasionally spoken candidly in interviews about the challenges of growing up under intense public scrutiny and how entering fatherhood shifted his personal trajectory.
Truman Hanks
The youngest of the family, Truman was born in 1995 to Tom and Rita. Truman initially preferred the technical side of filmmaking, working extensively behind the scenes within camera and electrical departments on major productions.
Recently, Truman stepped in front of the lens as well. He appeared on screen alongside his father in A Man Called Otto, portraying a younger version of the titular character, showcasing a quiet comfort in cinematic storytelling.
The Next Generation: Tom Hanks' Grandchildren
While the second generation established their careers, the third generation is just beginning to grow up. Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson are grandparents to three granddaughters, all born to Colin and Chet.
- Olivia Jane Hanks: Born in 2011 to Colin and Samantha Bryant, Olivia grabbed public attention when she accompanied her grandmother, Rita Wilson, on the red carpet at the Grammy Awards.
- Charlotte Bryant Hanks: Born in 2013 as Colin and Samantha's second daughter, she largely stays out of the public eye to experience a normal childhood.
- Michaiah Hanks: Born in 2016 to Chet Hanks, she is the youngest of the grandchildren. Chet frequently credits his daughter's birth as a turning point that brought stability into his life.
Both Tom and Rita frequently mention in interviews that being grandparents is one of their greatest joys. Rita has noted that keeping up with the girls requires staying active, whether that means jumping on trampolines or swimming in the pool.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many children does Tom Hanks have in total?
Tom Hanks has four children: Colin and Elizabeth from his first marriage to Samantha Lewes, and Chet and Truman from his current marriage to Rita Wilson.
Which of Tom Hanks' children are actors?
Colin Hanks and Chet Hanks pursued acting as a primary career path. Truman Hanks has also worked on screen and behind the scenes in camera departments, while Elizabeth Hanks focuses primarily on journalism and writing.
How many grandchildren does Tom Hanks have?
He has three granddaughters: Olivia and Charlotte (daughters of Colin Hanks) and Michaiah (daughter of Chet Hanks).
Do any of Tom Hanks' children work outside of Hollywood?
Yes. Elizabeth Hanks works as a professional writer and journalist, contributing essays and articles to major national publications without relying on a full-time acting career.
Are Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson involved grandparents?
Yes, both have stated in interviews that they take a hands-on approach, prioritizing active play and spending quality time with their granddaughters whenever their production schedules permit.
