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Who is Matthew McConaughey? What you might have not known about the beloved Texas native

Matthew McConaughey is known for his hunky physique that he showed off in movies like "Magic Mike."

He’s an award-winning actor, producer, and college professor and “Minister of Culture” at the University of Texas at Austin, but above all, he’s one the most beloved Texans– Matthew McConaughey.

McConaughey, born on November 4, 1969, in Uvalde, Texas, stays close to his roots.

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Despite his presence in Hollywood as an actor, McConaughey continues to call the Lone Star State his home and work to better the community.

In recent years, he contributed to the state in several ways.

After the deadly shooting at Robb Elementary School, the Uvalde native visited his hometown to meet with families at a community civic center. He also advocated for gun control action on behalf of his hometown at the White House.

Before that, according to Deadline, he helped raise $7.7 million during the “We’re Texas” virtual benefit concert. The effort helped those affected by the deadly winter storm that left Texans without electricity and clean water for several days in February 2021.

Here’s a look at McConaughey’s involvement in his home state:

Ties to Texas

McConaughey’s ties to Texas go beyond simply being born in the state.

In June 2022, McConaughey appeared at the White House to advocate for gun control legislation in the aftermath of the tragedy at Uvalde. Giving a 22-minute-long speech, McConaughey shared the stories of victims and suggested stronger background checks for gun purchases and raising the minimum age to purchase an AR-15-style gun.

One of his most prominent anchors to the Lone Star State is his relationship with the University of Texas at Austin.

McConaughey earned his film degree from the university in 1993.

In 2019, he joined the college faculty as a professor of practice, co-teaching a “Script to Screen” film production class.

McConaughey was also given the role of “Minister of Culture” at the UT-Austin as well as Austin FC, of which he is the co-owner.

Early career

According to IMBD, McConaughey began his acting career in 1991.

During his time at UT-Austin, McConaughey appeared in student films and commercials.

At a hotel bar in Austin, McConaughey met the casting director and producer Don Phillips, who introduced him to director Richard Linklater for “Dazed and Confused,” which is considered his break-out role by many.

According to IMBD, McConaughey’s character was initially in just three scenes but the role grew as Linklater encouraged him to do some improvisations, which led to the birth of McConaughey’s famous catchphrase, “Alright, Alright, Alright.”

Notable work

“Dazed and Confused”

“How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days”

"How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days" movie poster (movie poster promo)

“The Wolf of Wall Street”

The Wolf of Wall Street: Leonardo DiCaprio and Matthew McConaughey star in The Wolf of Wall Street, which opens in December. This is based on the real-life story of Jordan Belfort, a stockbroker who refused to cooperate in a 1990s securities fraud case that involved corruption on Wall Street.

“Dallas Buyers Club”

McConaughey shed about 40 pounds to play Ron Woodroof, a man with AIDS, in "Dallas Buyers Club." He went on an extreme diet that reportedly almost made the actor go blind to lose the weight.

Upcoming projects

McConaughey voices Buster Moon in the upcoming “Sing 2,” expected to be released in Dec. 2021.

Apart from his projects in the film industry, McConaughey briefly considered running for Texas governor. While McConaughey ultimately opted not to participate in the 2022 election, he did say he would back “entrepreneurs, businesses and foundations that I believe are leaders” and “creating pathways for people to succeed in life.”

In an interview with Crime Stoppers Houston, McConaughey said he was truly considering a run for Texas governor.

[RELATED: Could Matthew McConaughey be the next Texas governor? Polls show he has a good chance]

Although the election isn’t until 2022, a recent poll shows McConaughey has a 12 point lead over the incumbent, Gov. Greg Abbott.

Awards

According to IMBD, McConaughey has amassed 49 awards and 85 nominations for his talent in the film industry.

McConaughey’s most prestigious awards include an Oscar and Golden Globe for his performance in “Dallas Buyers Club.”

Many fans may remember his inspiring acceptance speech at the 2014 Academy Awards.


What makes you a fan of Matthew McConaughey? Let us know in the comments below.


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