Matthew R. Walton, born on August 24, 1973, in Hampton, New Jersey, is an American actor renowned for his extensive work across theater, film, and television. Standing at 6 feet 2 inches (1.88 meters), Walton has built a diverse career that showcases his versatility and dedication to the performing arts.
Early Life and Education
Raised in the small town of Hampton, Walton exhibited a passion for acting from a young age. At 17, he earned a scholarship to participate in a youth actors program near New York City, marking his initial step into the world of performance. He later attended the Boston Conservatory, focusing on musical theater and directing. During his time there, Walton honed his craft through various student productions, laying the groundwork for his future endeavors.
Theater Career
Walton’s theatrical debut came in 1997 with the Off-Broadway production of “Hair,” where he portrayed Berger. This role garnered him critical acclaim and led to further opportunities, including:
- “The Tailor-Made Man” (2002): Portraying Joseph.
- “Gorilla Man” (2003): A provocative coming-of-age play.
- “Parfumerie” (2013): Performed in Beverly Hills, inspired by the classic film “The Shop Around the Corner.”
His performances, characterized by emotional depth and physical expressiveness, have earned him recognition in the theater community.
Film and Television Career
Walton has made notable contributions to both television and film:
- Television Roles:
- “One Life to Live” (2009–2010): Portrayed Elijah Clarke, a role that brought him prominence in daytime television.
- “Rescue Me” (2009): Guest appearance as Harris.
- “Blue Bloods” (2010): Played Detective Kevin Schmidt.
- “BrainDead” (2017): Featured as a news anchor.
- Film Roles:
- “Burn After Reading” (2008): Appeared as a morning show host.
- “Gigantic” (2008): Played Connor Williams.
- “The Irishman” (2019): Cast as a television host.
- “The Hive” (2023): Portrayed Governor Diraldi.
In 2011, he gained recognition as sports commentator
Alex Reiser on Comedy Central’s “Onion SportsDome.”
Voice Work and Commercials
Beyond acting, Walton has lent his voice to over 100 commercials for networks like A&E, Bravo, and the Travel Channel. He has also narrated audiobooks, including adaptations of “Spider-Man 2” and “Sinbad: Legend of the Seven Seas.”
Personal Life
Walton resides in New Jersey with his wife, Alecia Hurst, and their two children. He maintains a private personal life while actively engaging in theatrical projects and conducting workshops for aspiring actors.
Interesting Facts
- In 2012, Walton appeared in the viral parody “Mitt Romney Style” for CollegeHumor.
- He portrayed Dick Clark in the series “American Soul” (2019).
Matthew R. Walton’s multifaceted career and unwavering commitment to his craft have solidified his status as a distinguished figure in the entertainment industry.