Colin Hanks is an accomplished American actor and filmmaker, best known for his compelling performances in both television and film. Born Colin Lewes Dillingham on November 24, 1977, in Sacramento, California, he is the son of renowned actor Tom Hanks and Samantha Lewes. Growing up in a family deeply embedded in the entertainment industry, Colin developed a passion for acting from an early age, which ultimately led him to carve out his own successful path in Hollywood.
Hanks began his acting career with a breakthrough role on the WB network's science fiction series Roswell, which aired from 1999 to 2001. This exposure helped him gain mainstream attention, but it was his role as Shaun Brumder in the film Orange County (2002) that marked a significant turning point in his career. The film showcased his comedic talent and opened doors to numerous opportunities in both film and television.
Following his success in Orange County, Hanks starred in the Peter Jackson blockbuster King Kong (2005), further solidifying his presence in the film industry. Over the years, he appeared in a variety of noteworthy films, including The Great Buck Howard (2008), Untraceable (2008), The House Bunny (2008), and Parkland (2013). His versatility as an actor allowed him to take on diverse roles, including supporting appearances in the popular Jumanji film series from 2017 to 2019.
Hanks' television career has been equally impressive, with significant roles in acclaimed series such as Fargo, where he portrayed Gus Grimly, earning nominations for a Golden Globe Award, a Primetime Emmy Award, and a Critics' Choice Television Award. He also starred as Jack Bailey in the Fox series The Good Guys (2010) and played the antagonist Travis Marshall in the sixth season of Dexter (2011), a performance that garnered him a Screen Actors Guild Award nomination. His other notable television credits include the CBS sitcom Life in Pieces (2015–2019), the Paramount+ miniseries The Offer (2022), and the Peacock series A Friend of the Family (2022).
In addition to acting, Colin Hanks has pursued a career in directing, showcasing his talents behind the camera. He directed the documentary films All Things Must Pass: The Rise and Fall of Tower Records (2015), Eagles of Death Metal: Nos Amis (Our Friends) (2017), and the upcoming John Candy: I Like Me (2025), highlighting his passion for storytelling in various forms.
Colin Hanks has been married to New York publicist Samantha Bryant since May 8, 2010, and together they have two children. As he continues to evolve as an artist, Hanks remains a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, recognized for his contributions both in front of and behind the camera. His dedication to his craft and his ability to navigate the complexities of being a member of a famous family have made him a respected and beloved personality in Hollywood.