Guide Note

Matt Dillon, an American actor from an Irish Catholic working-class family, was discovered as a teenager and acted in many teenage angst flms. He has diversified into comedic, roles, as in There's Something About Mary, and more weighty dramatic roles. Dillon was nominated for an Academy Award for his performance in the 2004 movie Crash, but lost to Alan Alda.

Fast Facts

1. Born: February 18, 1964
2. Birthplace: New Rochelle, New York
3. Breakthrough role: Dally Winston in The Outsiders
4. Family: Second of five siblings
5. Brother Kevin is also an actor

1. "I sometimes think love is God’s way of hoodwinking people into having kids. You fall in love, and all that passion goes into procreating and wanting children. I’ve felt that need to want to raise a child. It’s a creative urge. But you can express that creative urge in other ways."—Matt Dillon, Parade.com¹
2. "I'm not a laugher. I have a sense of humor, but I don't laugh. I'm amused by people."—Matt Dillon, Combustible Celluloid²
3. "I like vintage clothing, because it puts me in mind of another generation. You read things like "pleats are out." They're out? No way. They looked great in the forties—on Mitchum, Garfield, those guys. So why should it be different in 2006? I've got a closetful of old suits, gabardine pants, hats."—Matt Dillon, MSN Lifestyle³