40 Facts About Walter Matthau

Early Life and Background

Walter Matthau, a beloved actor known for his comedic and dramatic roles, had an interesting life before he became a Hollywood star. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about his early years.

1. Born on October 1, 1920, in New York City, Walter Matthau grew up in a Jewish family.
2. His birth name was Walter John Matthow, but he later changed it to Matthau for his acting career.
3. Matthau's father, Milton Matthow, was an electrician, while his mother, Rose, worked in a garment factory.
4. He grew up in the Lower East Side, a neighborhood known for its diverse immigrant population.
5. As a child, Matthau attended Seward Park High School, where he developed an interest in acting.
6. During World War II, Matthau served in the United States Army Air Forces as a radio operator and cryptographer.

Career Beginnings

Before becoming a household name, Matthau had to work his way up in the entertainment industry. Here are some key moments from his early career.

7. After the war, Matthau studied acting at the Dramatic Workshop of The New School in New York City.
8. He made his Broadway debut in 1948 in the play "Anne of the Thousand Days."
9. Matthau's first film role came in 1955 with "The Kentuckian," where he played a villain.
10. He gained recognition for his role in the 1957 film "A Face in the Crowd," directed by Elia Kazan.
11. In 1962, Matthau won a Tony Award for Best Featured Actor in a Play for his performance in "A Shot in the Dark."

Rise to Fame

Walter Matthau's career took off in the 1960s, leading to some of his most iconic roles. Let's explore the highlights of his rise to fame.

12. Matthau's breakthrough role came in 1965 when he starred in "The Odd Couple" alongside Jack Lemmon.
13. He won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in the 1966 film "The Fortune Cookie."
14. Matthau and Lemmon became a legendary comedic duo, starring in several films together, including "The Front Page" and "Grumpy Old Men."
15. In 1968, Matthau starred in "The Secret Life of an American Wife," showcasing his versatility as an actor.
16. He received critical acclaim for his role in the 1971 film "Kotch," which was directed by Jack Lemmon.

Personal Life

Beyond the silver screen, Matthau had a rich personal life filled with interesting anecdotes and relationships.

17. Matthau married his first wife, Grace Geraldine Johnson, in 1948, but they divorced in 1958.
18. He married Carol Grace in 1959, and they remained together until his death.
19. Matthau had three children: David, Charles, and Jenny.
20. His son, Charles Matthau, followed in his father's footsteps and became a director.
21. Matthau was known for his love of sports, particularly horse racing and tennis.

Later Career and Legacy

Even in his later years, Matthau continued to captivate audiences with his performances. Here are some notable moments from his later career.

22. In 1980, Matthau starred in the film "Hopscotch," which became a cult classic.
23. He received a Golden Globe nomination for his role in the 1982 film "First Monday in October."
24. Matthau reunited with Jack Lemmon for the 1993 film "Grumpy Old Men," which was a box office hit.
25. He continued to work with Lemmon in the sequel "Grumpier Old Men" and the 1997 film "Out to Sea."
26. Matthau's final film role was in the 2000 film "Hanging Up," directed by Diane Keaton.

Fun Facts and Trivia

Walter Matthau's life was full of interesting tidbits and lesser-known facts. Here are some fun pieces of trivia about the legendary actor.

27. Matthau was known for his distinctive voice and often did voice work for commercials and animated films.
28. He was a close friend of actor and comedian Billy Wilder.
29. Matthau was a heavy smoker for most of his life, which contributed to his health issues later on.
30. He was a frequent guest on talk shows, where he charmed audiences with his wit and humor.
31. Matthau was a philanthropist and supported various charitable causes, including the fight against cancer.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his career, Matthau received numerous accolades for his work in film and theater. Here are some of the awards and honors he received.

32. Matthau won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for "The Fortune Cookie" in 1966.
33. He received a BAFTA Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role for "The Odd Couple" in 1968.
34. Matthau was nominated for a Golden Globe Award for his role in "The Sunshine Boys" in 1975.
35. He received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1982.
36. Matthau was honored with the Kennedy Center Honors in 1995 for his contributions to American culture through the performing arts.

Final Years and Death

Walter Matthau's final years were marked by health struggles, but he continued to work and inspire others until the end.

37. In the 1990s, Matthau underwent heart bypass surgery and battled various health issues.
38. Despite his health problems, he continued to act and appeared in several films during this time.
39. Walter Matthau passed away on July 1, 2000, at the age of 79, due to complications from a heart attack.
40. He left behind a legacy as one of Hollywood's most beloved and talented actors, remembered for his unique charm and unforgettable performances.

Walter Matthau's Legacy

Walter Matthau's life was filled with remarkable achievements and memorable moments. Known for his distinctive voice, sharp wit, and unforgettable performances, he left an indelible mark on Hollywood. From his iconic role in "The Odd Couple" to his numerous collaborations with Jack Lemmon, Matthau's career spanned decades and brought joy to millions. His versatility as an actor allowed him to excel in both comedic and dramatic roles, showcasing his immense talent. Beyond the screen, Matthau was a devoted family man and a passionate supporter of various charitable causes. His legacy continues to inspire new generations of actors and film enthusiasts. Remembering Walter Matthau is not just about celebrating his films but also honoring the man who brought so much laughter and heart to the world. His contributions to cinema and his enduring charm ensure that he will never be forgotten.