Greece’s favorite adopted star Tom Hanks turns 62 today

Greece’s favourite adopted son and Oscar-winning actor, Tom Hanks was born 9 July, 1956 and turns 62 today, according to the following report by greekcitytimes.com.

The American star and filmmaker is married to Greek American actress Rita Wilson and they have four children, two of which are from Tom’s previous marriage.

Tom converted to Greek Orthodox before marrying Rita in 1988, and has since followed the Greek Orthodox religion with love and pride. The family attend Saint Sophia’s Greek Orthodox Church in Los Angeles, and are well known for attending church services during Holy Week and on other Feast Days. Tom has also participated in carrying the Epitaphio around the church on Holy Friday for many years.

When asked what it’s like being married to a Greek, Tom has noted “I feel 110% Greek being married to a Greek. I’m more Greek than a Greek because I had the good sense to marry a Greek! Some Greeks marry non-Greeks…can you believe that?”

The most favourite Greek Orthodox Hollywood star is also every much an active member of the Los Angeles Greek Community. Tom and Rita are honorary co-chairs and MC’s of the annual Los Angeles Greek Festival, which attracts thousands of Angelenos to experience all things Greek. The LA Greek Fest is a non-profit organisation, with proceeds going to the Saint Sophia Cathedral.

Tom and Rita also own a 450-square-metre stone villa in Antiparos island between Glypha and Chora, where they like spending time relaxing, unwinding and soaking up the Greek summer.

In 2016, Tom and Rita were awarded with the “Marathon Legion Medal” for their love and continuous support of Greece and the fact that they advertise the country all over the world.

To this day Tom continues to express his love for Greek culture and music and Greeks wish him a very Happy Birthday, Xronia Polla!