Rita Wilson reveals the two requests she made to Tom Hanks after breast cancer diagnosis

Wilson told Hanks that he should be 'sad for a very long time' if she passed, but also to celebrate her life

Rita Wilson is opening up about a deeply personal moment from her cancer journey, sharing the two heartfelt requests she made to her husband, Tom Hanks, after being diagnosed with breast cancer.

Speaking at a recent event in New York City, Wilson recalled how she addressed the possibility of not surviving her illness when she was diagnosed in 2015. She said she told Hanks she had two wishes: that he should be “sad for a very long time” if she passed away, but also that he should celebrate her life with a joyful gathering.

Wilson explained that she wanted any remembrance to be filled with stories, laughter, and love, something that honored her life rather than focusing solely on grief. The emotional conversation later inspired her 2019 song Throw Me a Party, which reflects on mortality and celebration.

The actress underwent a double mastectomy and reconstructive surgery after being diagnosed with invasive lobular carcinoma, a form of breast cancer that was discovered following a second medical opinion.

Now, more than a decade later, Wilson has marked a major milestone, celebrating 10 years cancer-free, and continues to speak openly about her experience to raise awareness about early detection and the importance of seeking second opinions.

Her latest comments come as she prepares to release her new album Sound of a Woman, turning a difficult chapter of her life into a message of resilience, gratitude, and hope.