Matt Moore

Matt Moore (1888‑1960) was an Irish‑born American film actor whose career spanned the silent era into the golden age of Hollywood, making him a notable bridge between two pivotal periods in cinematic history. Born on 1888‑01‑30 in County Meath, Ireland, he emigrated with his family to the United States as a child, joining a lineage of performers that included his brothers Tom, Owen, and Charles, all of whom found success on stage and screen. Moore’s first credited screen appearance came in 1911, and over the next five decades he appeared in more than 200 films, ranging from melodramas and comedies to adventure serials, demonstrating a versatility that kept him in demand despite the industry’s rapid technological changes. He is perhaps best remembered for his work with acclaimed directors such as D. W. Griffith and Cecil B. De Mille, and for memorable roles in silent classics like The Coward (1915) and The Great Victory (1919), where his expressive eyes and subtle gestures captivated audiences. Even after the advent of sound, Moore smoothly transitioned, delivering nuanced performances in talkies such as The Last of the Mohicans (1936) and The Thin Man (1934), where his supporting turns added depth to ensemble casts. Beyond his on‑screen achievements, Moore contributed to the film community as a mentor to younger actors, often sharing insights about adapting to evolving cinematographic techniques. His career waned in the late 1940s, but he remained a respected figure until his death in 1960, leaving behind a legacy of resilience and artistic adaptability that continues to inspire scholars of early American cinema. Throughout his life he embodied the immigrant dream, achieving lasting fame while bridging the cultural gap between his Irish origins and his American stardom.