George Mathews, a stalwart and unyielding thespian, emerged from the concrete jungle of Manhattan, his formative years taking shape within the bustling streets of Brooklyn. It was in this vibrant borough that he laid the foundation for his remarkable career, one that would span decades and defy the odds.
Despite his initial attempts to secure a position with the esteemed United States Postal Service, fate had other plans for Mathews. Undeterred, he turned his attention to the WPA Theatre Program, a groundbreaking initiative conceived during the tumultuous era of the Great Depression. This innovative government program aimed to provide employment for the unemployed on public works projects, offering a lifeline to those struggling to make ends meet.
Mathews seized this opportunity with both hands, joining the ranks of the WPA Theatre Program and embarking on a journey that would ultimately cement his status as a renowned actor. The stage, it seemed, was where he was destined to shine, and shine he would, in the years to come.
Mathews embarked on his Broadway career, initially securing a pivotal role in the 1937 production of "Processional", where he portrayed the charismatic and dynamic character of Dynamite Jim. Throughout his early years on stage, he consistently demonstrated his versatility by taking on tough, rugged, and authoritative roles, utilizing his distinctive facial features, such as his broad face, prominent eyebrows, and gravelly voice to convey a sense of strength and resilience.
The multifaceted Mathews, whose acting prowess transcended the confines of a one-dimensional "plug-ugly" persona, showcased his remarkable versatility by masterfully portraying a wide range of comedic and dramatic characters.
He made a significant impact in films such as "Pat and Mike" (1952),where he engaged in impressive judo action alongside the incomparable Katharine Hepburn.
Furthermore, Mathews also appeared in the iconic musical comedy "Do Re Mi" (1960-62),which starred the legendary Phil Silvers as the memorable Fatso O'Rear.
Noted stage actor, Mathews, showcased his remarkable talent in a range of classical plays throughout his illustrious career. One of his most notable performances was in the 1946 production of Sophocles' timeless tragedy, "Antigone", where he shared the stage with the esteemed Cedric Hardwicke.
Mathews' impressive range was further demonstrated in his 1949-50 portrayal of a pivotal character in Tennessee Williams' groundbreaking drama, "A Streetcar Named Desire". His on-stage chemistry with the talented Uta Hagen and Anthony Quinn garnered widespread critical acclaim from esteemed theatre critic, Brooks Atkinson, of The New York Times.
In 1950, Mathews took his talents to the London stage, starring in a sold-out production of Thomas Heggen's beloved comedy, "Mister Roberts", at the iconic Coliseum Theatre. He brought depth and nuance to the role of the captain, opposite the charismatic Tyrone Power, in this memorable performance.
Notable film appearances by Mathews include his portrayal of a gambler named Williams in the 1955 cinematic release "The Man with the Golden Arm", a drama that garnered significant attention at the time. Additionally, he made a lasting impression as the sadistic Sheriff Bull Harper in the 1956 western "The Last Wagon", a film notable for its vibrant color palette.
Furthermore, Mathews had a recurring role in the television comedy series "Glynis", which premiered in 1963. In this series, he played the character of Chick Rogers, a former law enforcement officer who often finds himself aiding and abetting the show's protagonist, Glynis Johns, a mystery writer and amateur sleuth, as they work together to solve a string of intriguing "whodunnits".
Widely regarded as a master of his craft, Mathews' personal life was a stark contrast to the rough-around-the-edges characters he so convincingly portrayed on screen. Despite his tough-guy image, he was in reality a charming and intelligent individual who effortlessly commanded the respect and admiration of those around him.
Beyond his illustrious career in the entertainment industry, Mathews was a man of many passions and interests. Among his favorite pastimes was the strategic game of chess, which he played with great skill and dedication. In fact, he was an avid participant in international chess tournaments, where he would often pit his wits against some of the world's top players.
As the years went by, Mathews' acting career eventually came to a close, and he retired from the spotlight in 1972. He spent his later years living in South Carolina, where he would pass away in November 1984, leaving behind a legacy of memorable performances that would continue to captivate audiences for generations to come.
