Profile: Matthew McConaughey

11 August 2008 02:18pm

Real Name: Matthew David McConaughey

Birth Date: November 4, 1969

Image: Handsome Texan actor known for his southern charm

Best Known For: Starring in a string of romantic comedies, including The Wedding Planner, Failure To Launch and How To Lose A Guy In 10 Days

Early Life: Matthew, who is of Scottish and Irish ancestry, grew up in Texas.

His dad was a former professional football player and his mum taught at a local school.

After school, Matt spent some time living in Australia, where he worked odd jobs, before returning to the US to study film at college.

He caught the acting bug after appearing in television commercials, and his big breakthrough was being cast in slacker hit Dazed And Confused in 1993.

Career High: In 2006, Matthew won a People's Choice Award for Favourite Male Action Star. Also, in 2005 the blond actor was voted Sexiest Man Alive in America's People magazine.

Love Life: Matt once dated actress Sandra Bullock and romanced Hollywood A-lister Penelope Cruz for two years.

He is currently dating Brazilian model Camila Alves who has just given birth to their first child, son Levi Alves.

Don't Mention: Deodorant. It's been reported the heartthrob star refuses to touch deodorant or cologne.

Words Of Wisdom: On his career: "Be the lean horse for the long ride. I figure I am in the third round of a 15 round fight."

© The Press Association