Samantha Lewes: Movies, Life With Tom Hanks & Death | A Look Back
Was she just a footnote in the story of a Hollywood icon, or did Samantha Lewes have a story of her own to tell? Samantha Lewes, an actress in her own right, carved out a space in the entertainment world before becoming forever linked to the name Tom Hanks, and her contributions, though perhaps less celebrated, deserve a closer look.
Born Susan Jane Dillingham on November 29, 1952, in San Diego, California, Lewes's journey into the world of acting began like many others with a spark of ambition and a desire to create. She entered the acting world and did well, showing potential that ultimately blossomed into a career, albeit one that was overshadowed by her personal life. She was, after all, the first wife of Tom Hanks, a fact that would inevitably define her public persona.
| Full Name: | Susan Jane Dillingham (professionally 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 |
| Cause of Death: | Bone Cancer (metastisized to lungs and brain) |
| Nationality: | American |
| Zodiac Sign: | Sagittarius |
| Height: | 5 feet 4 inches (163 cm) |
| Known For: | Actress, First Wife of Tom Hanks |
| Marital Status: | Divorced (Tom Hanks - 1978-1987) |
| Children: | Colin Hanks, Elizabeth Hanks |
| Notable Roles: | Bosom Buddies (1981, episode), Mr. Success (1984) |
| Education: | California State University, Sacramento (where she met Tom Hanks) |
| Reference: | IMDb - Samantha Lewes |
Lewes's foray into acting began to gain momentum. She wasn't just riding the coattails of her eventual marriage; she was actively pursuing her craft. She appeared in an episode of the popular ABC sitcom, Bosom Buddies, in 1981. The show, known for launching the career of its star, Tom Hanks, was a staple in television households and offered Lewes a platform to showcase her skills. Her role, however brief, was a testament to her dedication to the craft and the opportunities she actively sought.
In 1984, Lewes secured a role in the movie Mr. Success. Though details regarding the film itself may be sparse today, her participation signals a continued commitment to acting. It suggests she was not merely content with being a wife and mother; she still wanted to make her mark in the entertainment industry. The limited availability of detailed information about the movie does not diminish the fact that she was consistently working, honing her skills, and trying to find success on her own terms.
The paths of Samantha Lewes and Tom Hanks crossed at California State University, Sacramento, where they both were students of acting. Their shared passion for the performing arts forged a connection that would ultimately lead them down the aisle. Their relationship blossomed from a shared interest in the creative world, transforming into a romantic bond that would shape their lives. They shared a world where they had the potential to work together and create together.
The couple married on January 24, 1978. She was 26 and Tom was 22 when they married. This union resulted in the birth of two children, Colin Hanks in 1977, even before the marriage, and Elizabeth Hanks in 1982. Their marriage, however, was not to last. The couple, after nearly a decade of marriage, would ultimately go their separate ways. The divorce was finalized on March 19, 1987. The reasons behind their split remain private, but the separation marked a significant turning point in both their lives.
Lewes, as the first wife of Hanks, was alongside him as his career began to take off. She witnessed his ascent to stardom, the challenges, and the triumphs that came with it. Their story is, in some ways, a classic Hollywood narrative: two young people, united by a shared dream, navigating the complexities of fame and family. While Hanks went on to achieve global recognition and become a household name, Lewes remained a constant presence during his formative years.
After the divorce, Samantha was diagnosed with bone cancer. After a battle with bone cancer, the disease spread to her lungs and brain. It was a tragic end that cut short a life of promise and potential. Lewes's passing, on March 12, 2002, at the age of 49, was a profound loss, not only for her family and friends but also for those who recognized her talent and potential. Her death served as a reminder of the fragility of life, even amidst the glittering world of Hollywood.
In a life touched by both personal and professional experiences, Samantha Lewes made a mark. Her performances in Bosom Buddies and Mr. Success stand as testaments to her commitment to the craft. However, the shadow of her connection to Tom Hanks cannot be erased. In the grand narrative of Hollywood, she became inextricably linked to the actor. In the context of a famous actor's career, she was an important factor to his success and personal life.
Lewess children, Colin and Elizabeth Hanks, have both followed in their parents footsteps, forging successful careers in the entertainment industry. The legacy of their mother, though often overlooked, lives on through their continued presence in the world of acting. In addition to their acting careers, both Colin and Elizabeth often speak openly and fondly about their mother in interviews, ensuring her memory is kept alive.
Samantha Lewes's story is a reminder that every person has their own narrative. While she may be remembered primarily for her association with a Hollywood icon, her own journey as an actress, a mother, and a woman deserving of respect should not be forgotten. Her life, her career, and her legacy, though sometimes overshadowed, should be seen as important and valid in their own right. The complexities of her life, her contributions, and her ability to leave a positive legacy, despite the hardships she endured, speak volumes about her character and the impact she made on those around her.
Samantha Lewes wasn't just a wife; she was a woman with dreams, aspirations, and talent. She lived a life filled with both joy and sorrow. Her life's trajectory included an acting career, a marriage, and the creation of a family, all of which contribute to a complex and multi-faceted story. The tragedy of her early death reminds us that life is fragile and that we must recognize and appreciate the contributions of everyone, especially those in the public eye, beyond the scope of their more public associations.
The narrative of Samantha Lewes is an important one to understand, appreciate, and remember. In the annals of Hollywood history, her story is a reminder of the humanity that exists, even within the world of celebrities and glitz. It is a story of resilience, talent, and the enduring power of family. Though her time on Earth was cut short, her memory, her work, and her legacy continue to resonate in the hearts of those who knew her and those who recognize the importance of acknowledging the complete stories of the people in our world.
