Person Biography:
Jody Matzer is a multifaceted American actor-writer-producer-artist with a diverse background in television, film, theater, and improvisational comedy. He has been recognized for his work in various capacities, showcasing his versatility as an artist.
Early Career:
Matzer began his career in 2016, starring as Tom in Betwixt Theater's production of Lanford Wilson's A Poster of the Cosmos. He received widespread acclaim for his portrayal of a man grappling with survivor's remorse during the AIDS outbreak in New York City.
Film and Television:
In 2018, Matzer appeared in Lizzie, a biographical thriller film directed by Craig William Macneill, written by Bryce Kass, and starring Chloë Sevigny and Kristen Stewart. Lizzie was listed as one of the 'highly anticipated films' at the 2018 Sundance Film Festival.
Matzer has also appeared in several award-winning short films, including 2016's Ring Rust, which earned him a best acting award, and 2022's Wildman, which has won numerous awards and received critical acclaim.
Behind-the-Scenes Work:
When not in front of the camera, Matzer has been involved in series table reads, off-camera reading, and stand-in work. His passion for the industry is evident, and his diverse experiences have shaped him into the artist he is today.
Screenwriting:
In 2023, Matzer penned his first feature-length screenplay, Sharks And Minnows, which received top honors in the Virginia Screenwriting Competition sponsored by The Virginia Film Office. The thriller was praised for its strong story, excellent dialogue, and complex characters.
Matzer's second feature screenplay, Titch, is a horror genre piece that has received recognition and accolades in national and international festivals and competitions. He hopes to see both screenplays progress to the production stage.
Evolution and Future Projects:
Matzer continues to explore his craft, challenge himself, and celebrate his uniqueness as an artist. Acting is his first love, but he is a true renaissance man with many interests. He will continue to write and create original art, evolve through his journey as an actor/artist.
In his free time, Matzer creates award-winning editorial illustration and plans to write and illustrate a children's book in the future. He also appeared as a contestant on ABC's Who Wants To Be A Millionaire in 2001, winning $125,000 and recounting his experience in a book titled Millionaire Boy: The Adventures of a Game Show Contestant.
