Born: November 21, 1942 – Died: September 22, 2018
Al Matthews, born on November 21, 1942, in Brooklyn, New York City, was not just an actor but a man of many talents and notable achievements. His journey from a folk singer and musical performer in England to a respected actor in Hollywood is as remarkable as his military service. Matthews made history as the first black Marine to be meritoriously promoted to the rank of Sergeant during the Vietnam War and was also the pioneering "black voice" on England's national station, 'Radio 1.'
Early Life and Career
Matthews' early years were spent in Brooklyn, where he cultivated his talents in music and performance. This artistic inclination led him across the Atlantic to England, where he worked professionally as a singer. However, it was his transition to acting that brought him into the limelight.
His acting career began to take shape with various roles, but it was his portrayal of Sergeant Apone in the 1986 sci-fi classic "Aliens" that solidified his place in Hollywood. This role, characterized by a tough, cigar-smoking demeanor, became a trademark of Matthews and showcased his ability to bring authenticity and depth to his characters.
Apart from "Aliens," Matthews appeared in other notable films like "Superman III" (1983) as the Fire Chief and The Fifth Element (1997), where he played General Tudor. Throughout his career, he was not just an actor but also lent his voice to characters in video games like "Aliens: Colonial Marines" (2013) and "Operation Flashpoint: Red River" (2011).
Matthews' impact on Hollywood is underscored by his unique journey from the battlefields of Vietnam to the sound stages of some of the most iconic films in science fiction and action genres. He is remembered not just for his roles but for breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations of actors. His life and career stand as a testament to his versatility, resilience, and enduring legacy in the entertainment industry.
Filmography
| Year | Title | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | The Price of Death | Williamson |
| 2013 | Aliens: Colonial Marines (Video Game) | Apone (voice) |
| 2011 | Operation Flashpoint: Red River (Video Game) | Col. Shannon J.Hardaway (voice) |
| 1998 | Short Stories About Love (TV Mini Series) | Unknown |
| 1997 | Tomorrow Never Dies | Master Sergeant 3 |
| 1997 | *The Fifth Element* | General Tudor |
| 1997 | The Apocalypse Watch (TV Movie) | Wesley Sorenson |
| 1996 | Ellington (TV Series) | J.P. Coates |
| 1995 | Soul Survivors (TV Movie) | Grover Cleveland |
| 1994 | Desmond's (TV Series) | Reverend Marvin Jones |
| 1989 | Saracen (TV Series) | Dube |
| 1988 | American Roulette | Morrisey |
| 1988 | Stormy Monday | Radio DJ |
| 1987 | Excuse Me But That's My Car (Short) | Winston Smith |
| 1987 | Out of Order | U.S. DJ |
| 1987 | London Embassy (TV Mini Series) | Uwlie Cooper |
| 1987 | Screen Two (TV Series) | Curtis Duchamps |
| 1986 | Big Deal (TV Series) | American Punter |
| 1986 | *Aliens* | Sergeant Apone |
| 1986 | The American Way | Benedict |
| 1985 | Defense of the Realm | First U.S. Controller |
| 1984 | The Comic Strip Presents (TV Series) | Admiral |
| 1983 | Video Stars (TV Movie) | Calvin Tripoli |
| 1983 | Funny Money | 1st Hood |
| 1983 | Superman III | Fire Chief |
| 1983 | The Last Day (TV Movie) | Embassy guard |
| 1983 | The Professionals (TV Series) | Faroud |
| 1982 | The Sender | Viet Nam Veteran |
| 1982 | Shelley (TV Series) | Newscaster |
| 1982 | Nancy Astor (TV Mini Series) | Billy |
| 1980–1982 | X Bomber (TV Series) | Caliban | Saburo Hagen |
| 1981 | Ragtime | Maitre D' |
| 1981 | The Final Conflict | Workman |
| 1980 | BBC2 Playhouse (TV Series) | Oxford St. John |
| 1980 | Rough Cut | Ferguson |
| 1979–1980 | Grange Hill (TV Series) | Mr. Green |
| 1979 | Yanks | The Americans - Black G.I. at Dance |
| 1977 | Bad Loser (Short) | Frank |