Rita Wilson Serenades Husband Tom Hanks On 67th Birthday: 'My Lover, My Best Friend'

Love stories in Hollywood often fade away as quickly as they emerge, but the enduring bond between Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson has proven to be an exception. 

The iconic couple have always been open about their mutual love and respect for each other, spanning over three decades, and they are always looking to share this with their family and fans. 

In celebration of "The Toy Story" actor's 67th birthday, his wife Wilson took to Instagram to express her love and appreciation for her husband of 35 years.

Accompanied by a photo of the renowned actor in a plant-patterned shirt with his arms folded, the singer-songwriter wrote a touching birthday message, calling Hanks her "lover, best friend, family, and the father of their children."

As part of her tribute, Wilson highlighted some unique aspects she adores about Hanks, "He loves a typewriter just slightly less than me, (why is there no typewriter emoji?) invents cocktails like Diet Cokecaine (Diet Coke mixed with Champagne) or a Cokearita (Diet Coke mixed with margarita)." 

Wilson also mentioned the Oscar winner's regular DJ appearances on Boss Radio 66 as another way to highlight his musical taste. She stated that Hanks "is happiest being (surrounded) by his family and friends, and has committed to telling the stories of veterans and has created his own coffee brand supporting veterans, @givehanx Hanx for our Troops." 

She concluded the heart-melting tribute, writing, "He is among the brightest individuals I know, he has made me laugh every day for the past 38 years, and he can take a sleep anywhere at any time. Happy happy birthday my sweetheart" while adding numerous cake, heart, and flower emojis. 

The couple's celebrity friends and fans also wished Hanks a happy birthday in the comments. "Happy Everything!!! To you and your fella. Love you so much 🥳🎉🍾🥰", Julia Roberts said while John Stamos added, "Look at the guns on that kid!" referring to Hanks showing off his biceps in the picture. 

Christie Brinkley commented, "I read that if you can nap anywhere it's a sign that you're a genius. We knew it already but it's confirmation! HBD‼️" One fan wrote, "Happiest of birthdays to the GOAT ❤️🎁🎉" Another said, "Happy birthday to one of our finest actors and nicest people from all accounts!"

Wilson frequently gushes about her husband on social media. In April, "The Now and Then" actress celebrated her 35th wedding anniversary to Hanks. To celebrate, Wilson uploaded a picture of Hanks presenting her with a cake that said "Happy Anniversary."

She wrote in the accompanying caption, "35 years of marriage. April 30, 1988. Love is everything."  The pair first met on the set of Hanks' sitcom, "The Bosom Buddies," in 1981 and tied the knot in 1988. However, before they met on the sitcom, Hanks admitted he had his eye on Wilson long a decade before.

He revealed he had watched an episode of "The Brady Bunch," and Wilson had caught his attention. Ever since Hanks and Wilson have supported each other through thick and thin. 

In 2015, Wilson was diagnosed with breast cancer and underwent a double mastectomy.  Although she was initially concerned about how her husband would react, she revealed that she was relieved by his response.

"You never know how your spouse is going to react in a situation like this," Wilson said. "I was so amazed, so blown away by the care my husband gave me ... who knew it would make you even closer?"

The couple also weathered COVID-19 at the pandemic's start in March 2020. Wilson spoke to The Guardian about her experience, noting Tom Hanks' presence made it easier to handle. "I think that having the virus at the same time made it that little bit easier," said Wilson.

She then added, "We were taking care of each other instead of having the pressure of taking care of one person and no one taking care of you or understanding that the person at home needs a break." Wilson and Hanks share two sons, Chet Hanks and Truman Hanks. The "Cast Away" actor is also a father to actor Colin Hanks and Elizabeth Ann Hanks from his previous marriage to Samantha Lewes.