What's After the Movie
Walter Matthau
Walter Matthau was an American screen and stage actor, famously known for his "hangdog face" and relatable portrayal of world-weary characters. He was born Walter John Matthow, and starred in numerous films, but is particularly remembered for his ten film stretch alongside real-life friend Jack Lemmon. They became one of Hollywood's most successful pairings with cult classics like The Odd Couple (1968) and Grumpy Old Men (1993). Success followed Matthau throughout his illustrious career, he was a recipient of the Academy Award, two-time BAFTA Award, and two-time Tony Award winner.
Matthau also gained recognition for his service during the World War II, where he served as a radioman-gunner with the Eighth Air Force in England, participating in key events like the Battle of the Bulge. Professionally he started his acting career in theater, then transitioned to hosting shows before finally breaking into film. By the 1970s, Matthau was a regular fixture in the comedy circuit, delivering blockbuster performances in films like A New Leaf (1971) and Pete 'n' Tillie (1972). Off-camera, he was a passionate practical joker and had a lifelong love for acting. His career spanned over five decades until he suffered a heart attack and passed away on July 1, 2000.
Biography, Career & Filmography
Learn more about Walter Matthau, including a detailed biography, career timeline, personal life insights, and complete filmography. Discover how Walter Matthau rose to fame, their major roles, industry impact, and personal milestones in the world of film.
Given Name: Walter John Matthow
Born: New York City, U.S.
Citizenship: American
Birthday: October 1, 1920
Occupations: Actor, Comedian, Director
Years Active: 1948–2000
Children: 3
Spouses: Grace Geraldine Johnson, Carol Marcus
External Links and Streaming Options
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Awards and Nominations Received by Walter Matthau
Explore the awards, honors, and nominations Walter Matthau has earned across their acting career. From prestigious wins to critical acclaim, see how their talent has been recognized by the film industry and major award bodies.
Movies Featuring Walter Matthau
The Kentuckian
Charade
A Face in the Crowd
Cactus Flower
The Fortune Cookie
Hello, Dolly!
Dennis the Menace
I.Q.
The Odd Couple
The Bad News Bears
Fail-Safe
The Taking of Pelham One Two Three (re-release)
Grumpy Old Men
Grumpier Old Men
Out to Sea
Plaza Suite
Pirates
And the Oscar Goes To…
Last of the Independents: Don Siegel and the Making of ‘Charley Varrick’
The Incident
Hopscotch
Buddy Buddy
Portrait of a ‘60% Perfect Man’: Billy Wilder
Little Miss Marker
I Ought to Be in Pictures
The Survivors
Mrs. Lambert Remembers Love
I Love Liberty
Movers & Shakers
The Couch Trip
James Stewart: A Wonderful Life
The Little Devil
Broadway’s Dreamers: The Legacy of the Group Theatre
First Monday in October
The Grass Harp
The Secret Life of an American Wife
The Front Page
The Laughing Policeman
A Guide for the Married Man
Island of Love
A New Leaf
The First 100 Years: A Celebration of American Movies
The Stingiest Man in Town
Bigger Than Life
Goodbye Charlie
The Taking of Pelham One Two Three
Strangers When We Meet
Onionhead
King Creole
Beyond JFK: The Question of Conspiracy
Billy Wilder: The Human Comedy
House Calls
Gangster Story
The Sunshine Boys
Walter Matthau: Diamond in the Rough
Laurel and Hardy: A Tribute to the Boys
The Odd Couple II
Pete ’n’ Tillie
Ensign Pulver
Ride a Crooked Trail
How the Grinch Stole Christmas!
Candy
Incident in a Small Town
Lonely Are the Brave
The Gentleman Tramp
Voice in the Mirror
Kotch
The Lion Roars Again
Charley Varrick
Casey’s Shadow
Awake and Sing!
Jack Lemmon: America’s Everyman
The Marriage Fool
Against Her Will: An Incident in Baltimore
Slaughter on 10th Avenue
Atomic Attack
Career Timeline
Track the complete movie timeline of Walter Matthau, including all film releases, career breakthroughs, and notable roles. Follow their journey from early performances to recent blockbusters and upcoming projects.
2015
Last of the Independents: Don Siegel and the Making of ‘Charley Varrick’
Self (archive footage)
1998
Billy Wilder: The Human Comedy
Self
The Odd Couple II
Oscar Madison
The Marriage Fool
Frank Walsh
1995
Grumpier Old Men
The Grass Harp
Judge Charlie Cool
The First 100 Years: A Celebration of American Movies
Self
1992
Laurel and Hardy: A Tribute to the Boys
Self
How the Grinch Stole Christmas!
Narrator (voice)
Against Her Will: An Incident in Baltimore
Harmon Cobb
1982
Portrait of a ‘60% Perfect Man’: Billy Wilder
Self
I Ought to Be in Pictures
Herbert Tucker
I Love Liberty
Self
1978
The Stingiest Man in Town
Ebenezer Scrooge (voice)
House Calls
Dr. Charley Nichols
Casey’s Shadow
Lloyd Bourdelle
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