Matthew McConaughey Biography

Matthew McConaughey was born Matthew David McConaughey on November 4, 1969, in Uvalde, Texas, USA. His father, James Donald McConaughey, ran a gas station and played football for the Green Bay Packers, while his mother, Mary Kathleen McCabe, was a teacher and author.

He grew up in Longview, Texas, alongside his two older brothers, Michael McConaughey and Patrick McConaughey. Raised in a disciplined and hardworking household, Matthew was always encouraged to dream big and take risks.

Education and Early Interests

Matthew attended Longview High School, where he was popular and known for his charm and athletic ability. Initially considering a career in law, he went on to study Radio-Television-Film at the University of Texas at Austin, graduating in 1993.

During college, McConaughey became interested in acting and started auditioning for small roles. His life-changing moment came when he met casting director Don Phillips, who introduced him to director Richard Linklater.

Early Career and Breakthrough

Matthew McConaughey’s acting career began with small roles in commercials and television. However, his big break came in 1993 when he played David Wooderson in the cult classic Dazed and Confused.

Though his role was relatively small, his laid-back, charismatic delivery made the line “Alright, alright, alright” an instant classic. This performance put him on Hollywood’s radar, leading to bigger opportunities.

Rise to Stardom

Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, McConaughey became a leading man in romantic comedies and dramas.

• “A Time to Kill” (1996) – His first major dramatic role, playing a defense lawyer in a gripping courtroom thriller.

• “Amistad” (1997) – Worked with Steven Spielberg in this historical drama.

• “The Wedding Planner” (2001) – Starred opposite Jennifer Lopez, solidifying his romantic comedy status.

• “How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days” (2003) – A box-office hit with Kate Hudson, making him one of Hollywood’s top rom-com actors.

• “Sahara” (2005) – Showcased his action-hero potential.

By this time, McConaughey was known for his charming, easygoing personality, but he began feeling typecast in romantic comedies.

The McConaissance – Career Transformation

In the early 2010s, Matthew McConaughey took a bold step by rejecting stereotypical roles and focusing on serious, dramatic performances. This career shift, known as the “McConaissance,” redefined him as an actor.

• “The Lincoln Lawyer” (2011) – A legal thriller that marked his return to serious roles.

• “Magic Mike” (2012) – Played Dallas, a charismatic strip club owner.

• “Mud” (2012) – A critically acclaimed independent film.

• “Dallas Buyers Club” (2013) – His Oscar-winning performance as Ron Woodroof, a man diagnosed with HIV who fought the medical system.

• “The Wolf of Wall Street” (2013) – A small but unforgettable role alongside Leonardo DiCaprio.

• “Interstellar” (2014) – Starred as Cooper in Christopher Nolan’s sci-fi masterpiece.

• “True Detective” (2014) – His role as Rust Cohle in this HBO series won him a Golden Globe Award and massive critical praise.

His intense dedication to these roles, including losing 50 pounds for Dallas Buyers Club, showed his depth and commitment as an actor.

Personal Life and Relationships

Marriage and Family

McConaughey met Brazilian model Camila Alves in 2006, and they married in 2012. The couple shares three children:

• Levi Alves McConaughey (born 2008)

• Vida Alves McConaughey (born 2010)

• Livingston Alves McConaughey (born 2012)

Despite Hollywood’s fast-paced world, McConaughey prioritizes family and fatherhood, often speaking about the importance of balance in life.

Humanitarian Work and Business Ventures

• Just Keep Livin Foundation – Founded to empower high school students through fitness and wellness programs.

• University of Texas Professor – Became a professor of practice at his alma mater, teaching film production.

• Lincoln Car Commercials – Became the face of Lincoln Motor Company, adding to his financial success.

• Author – Released his memoir Greenlights in 2020, which became a bestseller.

Physical Attributes and Personal Details

• Nickname: Matt, McConaughey

• Height: 5 feet 11 inches (182 cm)

• Weight: 181 pounds (82 kg)

• Eye Color: Blue

• Hair Color: Light Brown

• Shoe Size: 11 (US)

• Body Measurements: Athletic build

Net Worth and Financial Success

Matthew McConaughey’s estimated net worth is around $160 million as of 2025. He earns from acting, endorsements, books, and business ventures.

Social Media Presence

Matthew McConaughey is active on social media, where he shares life lessons, personal stories, and motivational content.

• Instagram: @officiallymcconaughey

• Twitter: @McConaughey

• YouTube: Matthew McConaughey