Matthew Broderick is a name that’s synonymous with Hollywood, as his career spans over four decades and includes some of the most iconic films and performances of the 20th and 21st centuries. From his breakout role as Ferris Bueller to voicing the beloved adult Simba in Disney’s The Lion King, Broderick has solidified his place as a celebrated actor, comedian, and voice artist. Married to equally famous actress Sarah Jessica Parker, Broderick’s personal and professional life has captivated audiences for years.
Let’s dive into seven compelling facts about Matthew Broderick that you may not know, shedding light on both his career and personal life.
1. Father of Three with Wife, Sarah Jessica Parker
Matthew Broderick and Sex and the City star Sarah Jessica Parker have been one of Hollywood’s most enduring couples, married since May 19, 1997. The two met through Parker’s brother, Timothy Britten Parker, and began dating shortly afterward. Their wedding was a low-key affair, held in Manhattan’s Lower East Side and officiated by Broderick’s sister, Janet Broderick Kraft.
Their family grew when they welcomed their first child, James Wilkie Broderick, in 2002. Seven years later, they became parents to twin daughters, Matilda Loretta Elwell and Tabitha Hodge Broderick, born via surrogate in 2009. Despite their fame, the couple has managed to keep their family life relatively private, creating a strong foundation for their three children.
Interestingly, Broderick once dated his Ferris Bueller’s Day Off co-star, Jennifer Grey, during the making of the film, though they kept their relationship under wraps at the time.
2. From Ferris Bueller to Godzilla: A Versatile Career in Film
Broderick’s early roles quickly established him as a versatile actor. He became a household name with his portrayal of Ferris Bueller in the 1986 teen-comedy Ferris Bueller’s Day Off. At just 23 years old, Broderick perfectly captured the mischievous yet charming high-schooler who skips a day of school to embark on adventures through Chicago. The film was a critical and commercial success, grossing $70.1 million worldwide and earning Broderick a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actor in a Comedy or Musical. His portrayal broke the fourth wall, inviting audiences into Ferris’s world and making him one of the most memorable characters of the era.
A decade later, Broderick took on a very different role in 1998’s Godzilla. This American adaptation of the iconic Japanese monster film saw Broderick star as Dr. Niko “Nick” Tatopoulos, a scientist thrust into the chaos as New York City is terrorized by the colossal creature. Though the film received mixed reviews, it was one of Broderick’s most high-profile roles, proving his ability to move between genres seamlessly.
3. Tragedy in Northern Ireland: A Life-Changing Car Accident
While Broderick’s professional life soared, his personal life was marked by a tragic event in 1987. On August 5 of that year, Broderick was involved in a car accident in Northern Ireland that resulted in the deaths of two people, 28-year-old Anna Gallagher and her 63-year-old mother, Margaret Doherty. Broderick, who was driving at the time, crossed into the wrong lane and collided head-on with their vehicle. The actor suffered serious injuries, including a concussion, fractured leg and ribs, and a collapsed lung.
Although Broderick faced potential jail time, he was ultimately fined $175 for the accident, a decision that sparked controversy. The event remains a dark chapter in Broderick’s life, overshadowing his career at the time.
4. Broadway Success: A Tony Award-Winning Performer
Matthew Broderick is not only a success on the big screen, but also on the stage. He has enjoyed an illustrious career on Broadway, earning two Tony Awards for his performances. At just 21, Broderick became the youngest actor to win a Tony Award when he took home the Best Featured Actor award for his role in Brighton Beach Memoirs in 1983. His ability to move seamlessly between film and stage highlights his versatility as a performer.
In 1995, Broderick’s stage success continued when he won the Tony Award for Best Actor in a Musical for his role in How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying. The Broadway stage has always been a place where Broderick’s talent shines, earning him respect as one of the most accomplished stage actors of his generation.
5. Voicing a Legend: Adult Simba in The Lion King
Perhaps one of Matthew Broderick’s most beloved roles is one where he wasn’t even seen on screen. In 1994, he voiced adult Simba in Disney’s The Lion King, one of the most successful animated films of all time. The Lion King tells the coming-of-age story of Simba, a lion who must come to terms with his past and reclaim his rightful place as king. Broderick’s voice helped bring the iconic character to life, particularly in moments of reflection and personal growth, as Simba learns to take responsibility for his destiny.
The film went on to become a global phenomenon, not just for its box office success but for its cultural impact, and Broderick’s contribution to it remains a defining moment in his career.
6. Net Worth of $150 Million: A Career Built on Success
As of 2020, Matthew Broderick’s net worth was estimated at $150 million, a testament to his successful career in both film and theater. From starring in iconic films like WarGames, Glory, and Inspector Gadget, to voice acting in major productions like The Lion King, Broderick’s career has been both diverse and profitable. His long-standing presence in the entertainment industry, coupled with his work on Broadway, has contributed to his substantial wealth, making him one of Hollywood’s most celebrated and enduring actors.
7. Overcoming a Career-Low to Continue Thriving
Despite facing challenges, both personal and professional, Matthew Broderick has demonstrated resilience throughout his career. From the tragic car accident in 1987 to the mixed reviews of Godzilla, he has always found a way to bounce back. His ability to adapt to different roles—whether it’s comedy, drama, or voice work—has made him one of the most respected actors in Hollywood.
Matthew Broderick’s career is a testament to the power of versatility, resilience, and talent. From his breakthrough role in Ferris Bueller’s Day Off to his enduring success on stage and in film, Broderick continues to captivate audiences around the world.
