# Walter Matthau

> American actor, comedian and director (1920–2000)

**Wikidata**: [Q202172](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q202172)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Walter_Matthau)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/walter-matthau

## Summary
Walter Matthau was an American actor, comedian, and director (1920–2000) known for his distinctive voice, comedic timing, and roles in classic films like *The Odd Couple* and *Grumpy Old Men*. He was a prolific character actor who played eccentric and memorable roles across film, television, and theater.

## Biography
- Born: October 1, 1920
- Nationality: United States
- Education: Attended The New School and the American Academy of Dramatic Arts
- Known for: Character acting in films, television, and theater
- Employer(s): The New School
- Field(s): Acting, comedy, film directing

## Contributions
Walter Matthau directed and starred in several films, including *The Odd Couple* (1968), which won him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. He also appeared in *Grumpy Old Men* (1993), *Charade* (1963), and *The Fortune Cookie* (1966). His work spanned over 60 years in entertainment, contributing to both comedy and drama genres.

## FAQs
**What was Walter Matthau known for?**
Walter Matthau was known for his distinctive voice, comedic timing, and roles in classic films like *The Odd Couple* and *Grumpy Old Men*. He was a character actor who played eccentric and memorable roles across film, television, and theater.

**Where did Walter Matthau study?**
Walter Matthau attended The New School and the American Academy of Dramatic Arts.

**What awards did Walter Matthau receive?**
Walter Matthau won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for *The Odd Couple* (1968). He also received Tony Awards for his work in theater and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

**What notable films did Walter Matthau appear in?**
Walter Matthau starred in *Charade* (1963), *The Fortune Cookie* (1966), *Grumpy Old Men* (1993), and *The Odd Couple* (1968).

## Why They Matter
Walter Matthau's work had a lasting impact on American cinema, particularly in the comedy and character actor genres. His distinctive voice and comedic timing influenced later generations of actors. His roles in films like *The Odd Couple* and *Grumpy Old Men* remain iconic, and his contributions to theater and television further cemented his legacy in entertainment.

## Notable For
- Won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for *The Odd Couple* (1968)
- Received Tony Awards for Best Actor in a Play and Best Featured Actor in a Play
- Starred in over 100 films and television shows
- Directed several films, including *The Odd Couple* (1968)
- Received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame

## Body
### Early Life
Walter John Matthow was born on October 1, 1920, in New York City. He attended The New School and the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, where he honed his acting skills.

### Career
Walter Matthau began his career in theater before transitioning to film and television. He was known for his distinctive voice and comedic timing, which made him a standout in both comedy and drama roles.

### Notable Works
- *Charade* (1963): Matthau starred in this Alfred Hitchcock film, playing a charming con artist.
- *The Fortune Cookie* (1966): He played a grumpy but lovable character in this comedy.
- *The Odd Couple* (1968): This film won him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor and established him as a leading character actor.
- *Grumpy Old Men* (1993): He reprised his role from *The Odd Couple* in this sequel, further solidifying his comedic reputation.

### Awards and Recognition
- Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor (1968)
- Tony Awards for Best Actor in a Play and Best Featured Actor in a Play
- BAFTA Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role
- Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame

### Legacy
Walter Matthau's work continues to influence actors and filmmakers, particularly in the comedy and character actor genres. His distinctive voice and comedic timing remain iconic, and his contributions to theater, film, and television have left a lasting impact on entertainment.

## References

1. Integrated Authority File
2. BnF authorities
3. [Source](https://www.oscars.org/oscars/ceremonies/1967)
4. International Standard Name Identifier
5. Virtual International Authority File
6. MusicBrainz
7. Encyclopædia Britannica Online
8. SNAC
9. Internet Broadway Database
10. Find a Grave
11. filmportal.de
12. Discogs
13. Brockhaus Enzyklopädie
14. Gran Enciclopèdia Catalana
15. Croatian Encyclopedia
16. Munzinger Personen
17. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
18. CONOR.SI
19. Cinemathèque québécoise Linked Open Data
20. performing-arts.ch
21. The Movie Database