Rita Wilson Uncovers Dad's Secret Past—Everything Changed

Rita Wilson discovered during a 2012 genealogy show that her father, Allan Wilson, had a secret family in his past. On a recent podcast episode, she discussed the surprising details surrounding his first marriage.

Secrets Uncovered

Wilson learned on "Who Do You Think You Are?" that her father was previously married and had a son in Bulgaria before moving to the United States. She expressed shock upon hearing this information.

Her father's first wife, Alice, died shortly after childbirth, and their infant son Emil passed away from an infection four months later. The circumstances were difficult due to the post-war conditions in Bulgaria.

A New Beginning

After these tragic events, Allan Wilson remarried Dorothy Wilson, with whom he had three children: Rita, Chris, and Lily Wilson.

Rita noted that her parents had kept this past hidden and were very private about it. She expressed regret over not having discussed these matters with her father while he was alive.

A Life of Resilience

Despite lacking formal education, Rita described her parents as hardworking and intuitive. Her father never had debt and managed to support his family while working as a bartender.

The actress admired how her parents maintained a strong marriage for 59 years and instilled strong values in their children.