Rita Wilson has always been a loud and proud Greek woman who has spoken openly about growing up in our culture alongside mother Dorothea Tzigkou, and Bulgarian-born father, Allan Wilson.
Married to award winning actor Tom Hanks for over 34 years, Rita has been known to perform as a musician and also produce the 2002 hit, “My Big Fat Greek Wedding”.
Rita spoke to the Sydney Morning Herald and talked about her life growing up, her career and what it’s like being married to Tom Hanks.
Starting the journey to a new life from Commiunist Bulgaria, her father Allan moved to the United States after seeing the 1927 movie, Chicago.
“He told me that’s what inspired him to want to move here. Every morning, he would wake up and say, “God Bless America.” says Wilson.
Not long after moving to America, her parents met at a Greek/Bulgarian dance in New York City and that was the beginning of a beautiful marriage that lasted 59 years until her father sadly passed away in 2009.
Rita has had a long and varying career, ranging from music to acting and while working in the music space, she had the pleasure of being mentored by musician Bruce Springsteen.
“Bruce Springsteen is an incredible inspiration and mentor. He liberated me from self-doubt when I asked him about songwriting,” Rita said.
“When he speaks, it’s like a masterclass.”
Tom Hanks has been right by Rita’s side for the length of their marriage, and it is something that she considers herself ‘lucky’ for.
“I am lucky to be married to Tom, who loves music, and while we have very different tastes, we intercept in specific areas,” she says.
“It’s fun to share music and have that connection.”
Source: Sydney Morning Herald
