Matt Dillon, born on February 18, 1964, in New Rochelle, New York, is one of Hollywood’s most versatile actors. With a career spanning over four decades, Dillon has excelled in a wide range of genres, from drama to comedy. He first gained fame in the early 1980s, with movies like The Outsiders and Rumble Fish, and has continued to captivate audiences with roles in films like Crash and There’s Something About Mary.
Despite being in the spotlight for decades, Dillon has remained grounded and focused on his craft, constantly challenging himself to take on new and exciting roles. As he approaches 60, Matt Dillon is still a major figure in Hollywood, continuing to star in acclaimed films and upcoming projects.
Key Takeaways
- Matt Dillon is a talented American actor and director, born in 1964.
- He rose to fame in the 1980s with films like The Outsiders and Rumble Fish.
- Dillon has shown versatility in his roles, excelling in both comedy and drama.
- His performance in Crash earned him an Academy Award nomination.
- In 2024, Matt Dillon continues to act, with upcoming films such as Haunted Heart and Being Maria.
Matt Dillon’s Journey in Hollywood
Matt Dillon Movies
Over the years, Matt Dillon has built an impressive filmography. From early hits like My Bodyguard and Little Darlings to more mature roles in Drugstore Cowboy and To Die For, Dillon has proven his ability to adapt to various genres. His role in There’s Something About Mary showcased his comedic side, while his intense performance in Crash earned him critical acclaim and an Academy Award nomination. More recently, Dillon has continued to act in a variety of roles, including Asteroid City (2023), with more films like Haunted Heart and Being Maria set for release in 2024.
| Matt Dillon Movies | Notable Films |
|---|---|
| Drama | Crash (2004), Drugstore Cowboy (1989) |
| Comedy | There’s Something About Mary (1998), Wild Things (1998) |
| Recent Works | Asteroid City (2023), Haunted Heart (2024) |
Matt Dillon in The Outsiders
One of Matt Dillon’s most iconic roles came in 1983 when he starred as Dallas "Dally" Winston in The Outsiders. This film, based on S.E. Hinton’s beloved novel, was a major success and helped define Dillon’s early career. As a tough, rebellious character, Dillon stood out among an all-star cast, which included future Hollywood legends like Tom Cruise, Patrick Swayze, and Rob Lowe. The Outsiders became a cult classic, and Dillon’s performance is still remembered fondly by fans.
Matt Dillon Gunsmoke Connection
While Matt Dillon is often associated with his name-sharing character from the classic TV series Gunsmoke, there’s no real connection. Marshal Matt Dillon, played by James Arness, was the lead character of Gunsmoke, but the actor Matt Dillon has no relation to the show. Despite the confusion, Matt Dillon has carved out his own identity, separate from the iconic TV lawman.
Matt Dillon Young and Rising to Fame
Matt Dillon started his career at a young age, landing his first role as a teenager in Over the Edge (1979). His youthful charisma and talent quickly garnered attention, and soon he was cast in major roles, like My Bodyguard and Little Darlings. These early films established him as one of the most promising young actors of his generation. By the time he appeared in The Outsiders, he had already solidified his status as a teen idol.
Actor Matt Dillon’s Versatility
One of the reasons for Matt Dillon’s long-lasting success in Hollywood is his ability to take on diverse roles. Whether he’s playing a troubled youth in Rumble Fish, a desperate addict in Drugstore Cowboy, or a quirky detective in There’s Something About Mary, Dillon always delivers strong performances. His commitment to his characters and his willingness to explore new genres have made him a respected figure in the film industry.
Matt Dillon Age
As of 2024, Matt Dillon is 60 years old. Despite reaching this milestone, he shows no signs of slowing down. He continues to work on exciting projects and remains a beloved figure in Hollywood.
Matt Dillon in There’s Something About Mary
In 1998, Matt Dillon starred in the comedy There’s Something About Mary, playing a private investigator who falls in love with Cameron Diaz’s character, Mary. The film was a massive success, grossing over $369 million worldwide. Dillon’s comedic timing and memorable performance helped the movie become one of the biggest hits of the 90s.
How Old Was Matt Dillon in The Outsiders?
When The Outsiders was released in 1983, Matt Dillon was just 19 years old. Despite his youth, Dillon’s portrayal of Dally Winston was powerful and showcased his natural acting talent. His performance in the film helped launch his career and paved the way for future success in Hollywood.
Matt Dillon in the 80s
The 1980s were a crucial decade for Matt Dillon, as he starred in several films that solidified his reputation as one of Hollywood’s leading actors. In addition to The Outsiders and Rumble Fish, Dillon appeared in Tex (1982), The Flamingo Kid (1984), and Drugstore Cowboy (1989). These films not only demonstrated his range but also cemented his place as a major actor of the decade.
| Key Life Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Matt Dillon |
| Born | February 18, 1964, in New Rochelle, New York |
| Famous Roles | The Outsiders, Crash, There’s Something About Mary |
| Awards | Academy Award nomination for Crash (2004) |
| Recent Projects | Asteroid City (2023), Haunted Heart (2024) |
| Age in 2024 | 60 years old |
| Notable 80s Films | Tex, Rumble Fish, The Flamingo Kid |
FAQs
When was Matt Dillon born?
Matt Dillon was born on February 18, 1964, in New Rochelle, New York.
What is Matt Dillon’s most famous role?
Matt Dillon is best known for his roles in The Outsiders, Crash, and There’s Something About Mary.
How old is Matt Dillon in 2024?
As of 2024, Matt Dillon is 60 years old.
How old was Matt Dillon in The Outsiders?
Matt Dillon was 19 years old when The Outsiders was released in 1983.
What awards has Matt Dillon won?
Matt Dillon received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor for his role in Crash (2004). He has also won an Independent Spirit Award for Drugstore Cowboy.
What are some recent movies Matt Dillon has appeared in?
Recent movies include Asteroid City (2023), and he will be starring in Haunted Heart and Being Maria in 2024.