Matthew Broderick: From Ferris Bueller To The Lion King & Beyond!

02 May, 2025

Could the quintessential 1980s cinematic experience be distilled into a single name? For many, the answer is unequivocally Matthew Broderick, the actor who effortlessly embodied the spirit of a generation. From his breakout role as the teenage hacker in "WarGames" to his iconic portrayal of the day-tripping Ferris Bueller, Broderick has carved a unique path through Hollywood, captivating audiences with his wit, charm, and undeniable talent.

Born on March 21, 1962, in Manhattan, New York City, Matthew Broderick's journey into the world of entertainment began early, steeped in a family with strong artistic roots. His father, James Broderick, was an actor, and his mother, Patricia, a painter, writer, and director. This creative environment undoubtedly fostered his own artistic inclinations, leading him to pursue a career on stage and screen.

Attribute	Details
Full Name	Matthew Quincy Broderick
Date of Birth	March 21, 1962
Place of Birth	Manhattan, New York, U.S.
Occupation	Actor, Director, Producer, Singer
Known For	Ferris Bueller's Day Off, WarGames, The Lion King, The Producers
Spouse	Sarah Jessica Parker (Married May 19, 1997)
Children	James Wilkie Broderick, Marion Loretta Elwell Broderick, Tabitha Hodge Broderick
Notable Awards	Tony Award for Best Actor in a Musical (How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, 1995) Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series (30 Rock, 2009)
Height	5 ft 7 in (1.70 m)
Net Worth	$45 million
Official Website/Reference	IMDb Profile

Broderick's ascent to stardom was swift. His early roles showcased his ability to inhabit diverse characters with ease. In 1983, "WarGames" catapulted him into the public eye, portraying a young computer whiz who stumbles upon a military supercomputer. This role demonstrated his knack for playing the everyman, a quality that would become a hallmark of his career. Two years later, he starred in the medieval fantasy film "Ladyhawke," alongside Rutger Hauer, further solidifying his versatility.

However, it was his portrayal of Ferris Bueller in John Hughes's 1986 comedy that truly cemented his place in cinematic history. "Ferris Bueller's Day Off" is more than just a film; it's a cultural touchstone. The story of a high school senior who decides to take a day off, with his friends for an adventure in Chicago, resonated with audiences of all ages. Broderick's portrayal of the charismatic, quick-witted Ferris became instantly iconic. His ability to break the fourth wall, offering knowing glances and witty asides to the audience, endeared him to viewers and elevated the film beyond a simple teen comedy.

The success of "Ferris Bueller's Day Off" solidified Broderick's status as a leading man. He followed up with a string of successful projects, including "Glory" (1989), a historical drama where he showcased his dramatic acting skills, and "The Freshman" (1990), a comedy where he displayed his comedic talent. His career, however, wasn't confined to the silver screen. Broderick also made a name for himself on the stage, returning to his theatrical roots.

Broderick's stage career is as impressive as his filmography. He made his Broadway debut in 1981 and went on to star in numerous productions, earning critical acclaim and multiple awards. A highlight of his stage career was his Tony Award-winning performance in "How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying" (1995). He demonstrated his versatility, excelling as both a dramatic and comedic actor and solidifying his status as a true triple-threat performer.

One of his most significant stage roles was in the musical "The Producers" (2001), based on Mel Brooks's film. Broderick starred alongside Nathan Lane, bringing his comedic timing and musical talent to the role of Leo Bloom. "The Producers" was a massive success, earning multiple Tony Awards and further solidifying Broderick's reputation as a Broadway star.

Throughout his career, Broderick has seamlessly transitioned between film and stage, demonstrating his remarkable versatility. He's worked with a diverse range of directors and actors, always bringing his unique charm and skill to every project. His filmography reads like a 'who's who' of Hollywood talent, from appearances in action-packed movies like "Godzilla" (1998) to the voice of Simba in Disney's animated classic "The Lion King" (1994).

Beyond his professional achievements, Broderick's personal life has also been a subject of public interest. He married actress Sarah Jessica Parker in 1997, and the couple has three children. Their relationship has been a long-standing example of a successful Hollywood marriage, and he often speaks with pride of his family.

Recently, Broderick has continued to stay active in both film and television. Hes set to star in Simon Birds WWII comedy-drama, Pretend Im Not Here, alongside Sally Hawkins and Martin Freeman, which has been described as a compelling and comedic exploration of human relationships tested by extraordinary circumstances during WWII. His upcoming projects keep him in the public eye. He made a special guest appearance in the "Elsbeth" series alongside his son, James Wilkie Broderick, in a special episode, showcasing a heartwarming display of family on screen. Matthew previously told people that he was so proud and happy to work with James on the hit cbs series.

Brodericks filmography spans a diverse range of genres, including comedy, drama, action, and animation. Heres a brief overview:

WarGames (1983): Played a teenage hacker who accidentally accesses a military supercomputer.
Ladyhawke (1985): Appeared in this medieval fantasy film.
Ferris Bueller's Day Off (1986): Played the title character, an iconic role.
Glory (1989): Starred in the historical drama about the American Civil War.
The Lion King (1994): Voiced the adult Simba in the original animated film.
The Cable Guy (1996): Appeared alongside Jim Carrey in this dark comedy.
Godzilla (1998): Played the lead role in this action film.
The Producers (2005): Replicated his stage role in the film adaptation of the musical.
Election (1999): Appeared in the satirical comedy.
Inspector Gadget (1999): Played the role in the live-action film adaptation.

Broderick's career has been marked by a consistent ability to choose interesting roles and bring his signature blend of wit and charm to each project. His longevity in the entertainment industry is a testament to his talent, his adaptability, and his ability to connect with audiences. He's a star who has successfully navigated both the silver screen and the stage, leaving a lasting mark on popular culture.

Matthew Broderick's contribution to the world of entertainment is considerable. His films have entertained and his performances on stage have inspired. He is more than a celebrity; hes a performer, and his work speaks volumes about his talent and his place in the world of cinema.

His name will always be synonymous with "Ferris Bueller's Day Off," and the joyous spirit of that film will continue to resonate with audiences for generations to come. But beyond that iconic role, Broderick's career is a tapestry woven with diverse characters, memorable performances, and a genuine love for his craft. He remains an important and influential figure in American acting.

Broderick continues to captivate audiences with his talent, he continues to work on new film, and is involved in productions on the stage. His future endeavors are eagerly awaited.

Matthew Broderick Pictures Rotten Tomatoes

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