Walter Matthau

Walter Matthau

The “Old Grump” of Hollywood

Walter Matthau was a versatile actor known for his gruff voice and slouching posture, making him a beloved figure in American cinema. His ability to excel in both comedic and dramatic roles made him a favorite among audiences and critics alike.

Matthau's on-screen chemistry with Jack Lemmon, with whom he starred in numerous films, is particularly celebrated. Their partnership is one of the most memorable in Hollywood history.

Walter Matthau, born Walter John Matthow on October 1, 1920, in New York City, was an iconic American actor whose career spanned more than five decades, leaving an indelible mark on both the silver screen and the stage. Known for his distinctive voice, hangdog face, and remarkable versatility, Matthau became a beloved figure in the realms of comedy and drama alike.

Early Years

Matthau's journey began in the Lower East Side of Manhattan, where he was raised in a humble environment by his Jewish immigrant parents, Rose (née Berolsky) from Lithuania and Milton Matthow, a peddler and electrician from Russia. The hardships of his early life, including the absence of his father, who left the family when Walter was very young, imbued in him a resilience that would characterize both his personal and professional life.

From a tender age, Matthau had a penchant for performance. His entrance into the acting world was facilitated by his participation in the drama department of Seward Park High School. Despite the financial difficulties that necessitated working odd jobs, including selling soft drinks at a Yiddish theatre, Matthau's passion for acting remained undeterred. His early forays into the world of acting were further supported by his attendance at the Dramatic Workshop of The New School in New York, where he honed his craft alongside future luminaries such as Tony Curtis and Marlon Brando.

Path Towards Success

Matthau's acting career officially kicked off in the late 1940s, with his Broadway debut in 1948. However, it wasn't until the 1950s and 1960s that he began to make significant inroads in Hollywood, showcasing his range in both dramatic and comedic roles. His breakthrough came with the film "The Fortune Cookie" (1966), for which he won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor, solidifying his place in Hollywood.

Yet, it was his collaboration with Jack Lemmon, beginning with "The Odd Couple" (1968), that truly cemented Matthau's legacy in cinema. Their on-screen chemistry was unparalleled, leading to a lifelong friendship and numerous collaborations, including the films "Grumpy Old Men" and its sequel, among others.

Personal Life and Passions

Matthau's personal life was marked by its ups and downs. He was first married to Grace Geraldine Johnson, with whom he had two children, but the marriage ended in divorce. His second marriage to Carol Grace lasted until his death and was a source of great stability and happiness. Matthau was a devoted father and an avid gambler, a hobby that brought him both joy and financial strain over the years.

Death and Legacy

Walter Matthau passed away on July 1, 2000, in Santa Monica, California, due to a heart attack. He had been battling heart disease and colon cancer in the years leading up to his death. Matthau's burial took place at Westwood Village Memorial Park Cemetery in Los Angeles, leaving behind a legacy that spans a rich tapestry of cinematic and theatrical contributions.

Walter Matthau wins the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor in 1967:

1960s

• "Charade" (1963): In this classic romantic thriller, Matthau plays Hamilton Bartholomew, a CIA administrator involved in the pursuit of a fortune stolen during World War II, opposite Audrey Hepburn and Cary Grant.
• "The Fortune Cookie" (1966): Matthau stars as Willie Gingrich, a shrewd personal injury lawyer who convinces his brother-in-law (played by Jack Lemmon) to fake a serious injury for a big insurance payout. This role won him an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor.
• "The Odd Couple" (1968): As Oscar Madison, a slovenly sportswriter living with his fastidious friend Felix Ungar (Jack Lemmon), Matthau shines in this comedy about mismatched roommates, based on Neil Simon's play.
   

1970s

• "Kotch" (1971): Matthau plays Joseph P. Kotcher, a retired salesman who feels unwanted by his family and decides to strike out on his own, in a role that earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor.
• "Charley Varrick" (1973): In this crime drama, Matthau is Charley Varrick, a small-time crook who accidentally steals from the mob and must outwit them to survive.
• "The Taking of Pelham One Two Three" (1974): Matthau stars as Lt. Zachary Garber, a transit police officer negotiating with hijackers who have taken control of a New York City subway train.
   

1980s

• "Hopscotch" (1980): Matthau plays Miles Kendig, a CIA operative who decides to write a tell-all memoir while eluding capture by the agency, showcasing his comedic talents in a game of cat and mouse.
• "First Monday in October" (1981): He portrays Associate Justice Daniel Snow, engaging in ideological battles with the first woman appointed to the Supreme Court, in a film that explores gender dynamics and legal controversies.
   

1990s

• "Grumpy Old Men" (1993): As Max Goldman, Matthau reignites his on-screen partnership with Jack Lemmon, playing feuding neighbors vying for the affection of their new neighbor, played by Ann-Margret.
• "The Grass Harp" (1995): In this adaptation of Truman Capote's novel, Matthau plays Judge Charlie Cool, a role that highlights his ability to convey depth and sensitivity.
• "Out to Sea" (1997): Matthau and Lemmon star as Charlie Gordon and Herb Sullivan, two brothers-in-law who sign up as dance hosts on a cruise ship, planning to woo wealthy widows, in this comedy that capitalizes on their dynamic chemistry.

Walter Matthau's acting style was characterized by a unique blend of naturalism, subtle physical comedy, and an unparalleled ability to convey depth through seemingly effortless performances. His distinctive voice, with its gravelly timbre, and his slouched posture became hallmarks of a persona that was at once endearing and authoritative. Matthau's performances often suggested a world-weariness, a lived-in authenticity that made his characters instantly relatable and deeply human.

Naturalistic Approach

Matthau was a master of the naturalistic acting style, bringing a sense of realism and believability to every role he portrayed. He had the rare ability to make scripted lines sound like spontaneous utterances, a testament to his skill in immersing himself in his characters. This naturalism allowed audiences to connect with his characters on a personal level, bridging the gap between the silver screen and the viewer's reality.

Physical Comedy and Expressiveness

Despite his often gruff exterior, Matthau excelled in physical comedy, using his body language and facial expressions to great comedic effect. His slouching walk, the shrug of his shoulders, and the deadpan delivery of lines contributed to a comedic style that was understated yet profoundly impactful. Even in roles that were not overtly comedic, Matthau's subtle use of physicality added layers to his characters, making them more nuanced and multifaceted.

Depth and Vulnerability

What truly set Matthau apart was his ability to convey vulnerability and depth beneath a crusty or cantankerous demeanor. His characters often displayed a mix of cynicism and tenderness, revealing the complexities of the human condition. In films like "The Odd Couple" and "Kotch," Matthau portrayed characters that were flawed and sometimes irascible, yet always imbued with a sense of humanity and an underlying warmth. This ability to reveal the vulnerability beneath the surface made his performances memorable and deeply affecting.

Versatility

Matthau's acting style was also marked by his versatility. He moved seamlessly between genres, from drama to comedy to thriller, showcasing his broad range as an actor. Whether playing a shrewd lawyer in "The Fortune Cookie," a lovable curmudgeon in "Grumpy Old Men," or a beleaguered transit authority police lieutenant in "The Taking of Pelham One Two Three," Matthau brought a consistency to his work that was rooted in his authentic approach to acting.

Legacy

Walter Matthau's legacy as an actor lies in his ability to bring authenticity, depth, and a subtle touch of humor to a wide range of characters. His acting style resonates with audiences and fellow actors alike, serving as a study in the power of understated performance. Matthau's career is a testament to the impact an actor can have through a commitment to authenticity, versatility, and a deep understanding of the human spirit.

Walter Matthau and Jack Lemmon formed one of the most memorable and beloved partnerships in Hollywood history. Their on-screen chemistry was unparalleled, combining Matthau's gruff, laconic style with Lemmon's neurotic, energetic performances to create a dynamic that was both hilarious and deeply human. Their collaboration spanned several decades and included both film and stage work, making them one of the most iconic duos in the entertainment industry.

Beginnings of the Partnership

Their partnership began with the film "The Fortune Cookie" (1966), directed by Billy Wilder. In this movie, Matthau played a shrewd lawyer who convinces his brother-in-law (played by Lemmon) to feign injury for a big insurance payout. Matthau's performance won him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor, and the film cemented the duo's on-screen chemistry.

"The Odd Couple"

Perhaps their most famous collaboration came with "The Odd Couple" (1968), a film adaptation of Neil Simon's play. Matthau reprised his Broadway role as the slovenly sportswriter Oscar Madison, and Lemmon took on the role of the fastidious Felix Ungar. The film showcased their perfect comedic timing and ability to play off each other's contrasting personalities, making it a classic of American cinema.

Continued Collaborations

Matthau and Lemmon would go on to star together in several more films, including:

• "The Front Page" (1974)
• "Buddy Buddy" (1981)
• "Grumpy Old Men" (1993) and its sequel "Grumpier Old Men" (1995), where they played feuding neighbors turned reluctant friends.
• "Out to Sea" (1997)
• "The Odd Couple II" (1998), which revisited their characters from "The Odd Couple" after many years.

Off-Screen Relationship

Off the screen, Matthau and Lemmon shared a deep friendship that mirrored their on-screen camaraderie. Their respect for each other's craft and personal warmth only served to enhance their performances, creating a synergy that audiences could not only see but feel. Matthau once described Lemmon as his "magic partner," highlighting the effortless connection they shared whenever they worked together.

• On Comedy and Drama: "It's more difficult to be funny than to be in a drama. You have to have a certain kind of instinct about timing and storytelling. Comedy is harder than drama."
   
• On His Acting Philosophy: "I don't act. I react. Give me a reactor over an actor any time. That's why I'm here."
   
• On Success: "The best way to guarantee a loss is to quit."
   
• On Life and Age: "Age is not important unless you're a cheese."
   
• On His Career Choices: "I know many people within the industry who feel I've never done a picture for the money. If I did, then it was only coincidental."
   
• On His Love for Acting: "I've always been interested in people, but I've never liked them."
   
• On Money and Happiness: "My doctor gave me six months to live, but when I couldn't pay the bill, he gave me six months more."
   
• On Perfection: "The only perfect thing in a movie is the hole in the screen."
   
• On His Approach to Life: "I don't mind getting older; it's a privilege denied to many."
   
• On Film-making: "Movie acting may not have a certain kind of glory as true art, but it is damn hard work."

Academy Awards (Oscars)

• Won: Best Supporting Actor for "The Fortune Cookie" (1967)
• Nominated: Best Actor for "Kotch" (1972)
• Nominated: Best Actor for "The Sunshine Boys" (1976)
   

Golden Globe Awards

• Won: Best Actor – Motion Picture Musical or Comedy for "The Sunshine Boys" (1976)
• Won: Best Actor – Motion Picture Musical or Comedy for "Kotch" (1972)
• Nominated: Best Actor – Motion Picture Musical or Comedy for "A New Leaf" (1972)
• Nominated: Best Actor – Motion Picture Drama for "Charlie Varrick" (1974)
• Nominated: Best Actor – Motion Picture Musical or Comedy for "The Odd Couple" (1969)
• Nominated: Best Actor – Motion Picture Musical or Comedy for "The Secret Life of an American Wife" (1969)
• Nominated: Best Actor – Motion Picture Musical or Comedy for "Cactus Flower" (1970)
   

BAFTA Awards

• Nominated: Best Actor for "The Odd Couple" (1969)
   

Tony Awards

• Won: Best Featured Actor in a Play for "A Shot in the Dark" (1962)
• Nominated: Best Actor in a Play for "The Odd Couple" (1965)
   

Emmy Awards

• Nominated: Outstanding Single Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role for "Junie Moon" (1972)
   

Laurel Awards

• Won: Golden Laurel for Male Comedy Performance for "The Fortune Cookie" (1967)
   

Other Recognitions

• Matthau was also honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Screen Actors Guild in 1997, recognizing his long and distinguished career in film and television.

1950s

• The Kentuckian (1955)
• The Indian Fighter (1955)
• A Face in the Crowd (1957)

1960s

• Strangers When We Meet (1960)
• Lonely Are the Brave (1962)
• Who's Got the Action? (1962)
• Charade (1963)
• Fail-Safe (1964)
• Goodbye Charlie (1964)
• Mirage (1965)
• The Fortune Cookie (1966)
• A Guide for the Married Man (1967)
• The Secret Life of an American Wife (1968)
• The Odd Couple (1968)
• Candy (1968)
• Hello, Dolly! (1969)
• Cactus Flower (1969)

1970s

• A New Leaf (1971)
• Plaza Suite (1971)
• Kotch (1971)
• Pete 'n' Tillie (1972)
• Charley Varrick (1973)
• The Laughing Policeman (1973)
• The Taking of Pelham One Two Three (1974)
• Earthquake (1974)
• The Front Page (1974)
• The Sunshine Boys (1975)
• The Bad News Bears (1976)
• The Gentleman Tramp (1977) - Narrator
• House Calls (1978)
• California Suite (1978)
• Casey's Shadow (1978)

1980s

• Little Miss Marker (1980)
• Hopscotch (1980)
• First Monday in October (1981)
• Buddy Buddy (1981)
• The Survivors (1983)
• Movers & Shakers (1985)
• Pirates (1986)
• The Couch Trip (1988)

1990s

• JFK (1991)
• Grumpy Old Men (1993)
• I.Q. (1994)
• The Grass Harp (1995)
• Grumpier Old Men (1995)
• I'm Not Rappaport (1996)
• Out to Sea (1997)
• The Odd Couple II (1998)
• Hanging Up (2000)