Junius Conyers Matthews was a celebrated American actor, whose remarkable career was marked by his distinctive and iconic voice roles in the esteemed Disney franchises, leaving an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.
With a career spanning over six decades, Matthews' professional journey commenced on the stage during the silent film era, laying the foundation for his future success.
His inaugural role was in the 1917 film "The Silent Witness," a pioneering work that showcased his burgeoning talent.
This was followed by his memorable portrayal of the Tin Woodsman in a radio adaptation of the timeless classic, "The Wizard of Oz," a testament to his versatility and range as a performer.
Noted radio and television thespian, Matthews, embarked on a remarkable journey that preceded his illustrious career in the entertainment industry, having first served as a private in the trenches of World War I. This formative experience, marked by his unwavering determination to succeed, ultimately inspired him to redirect his focus towards a life in the spotlight, where he swiftly carved out a niche for himself with his unmistakable, resonant voice.
As a result, Matthews' early years in the entertainment sector were characterized by his versatility, as he frequently took on supporting roles in radio westerns, often assuming the persona of an aged codger, a grizzled miner, or the authoritative figure of the cook wagon.
Noted television personality, Matthews, made a considerable impact on the small screen throughout the 1950s and 1960s, showcasing his versatility by appearing in a variety of television series. Some of his notable roles during this period include his portrayal of Wichita, the trusty sidekick to the titular character, Luke Slaughter, in the short-lived western series "Luke Slaughter of Tombstone". Additionally, Matthews also played the role of Ling Wee, a Chinese waiter, in the television series "Gasoline Alley".
However, it was not until the latter part of his life that Matthews gained widespread recognition and acclaim for his iconic role as Rabbit in the beloved Winnie the Pooh franchise, produced by the esteemed Disney entertainment company from 1966 to 1977.
Sterling Matthews, a renowned voice actor, left an indelible mark on the world of animation by lending his distinctive voice to a plethora of Winnie the Pooh featurettes, including the critically acclaimed "Winnie the Pooh and the Honey Tree" in 1966, "Winnie the Pooh and the Blustery Day" in 1968, and "Winnie the Pooh and Tigger Too!" in 1974, among others.
Matthews' illustrious professional journey culminated on January 18, 1978, when, at the ripe age of 87, he breathed his last breath, departing this mortal coil. His earthly remains were subsequently interred at Forest Lawn - Hollywood Hills Cemetery, where he rests in peace, his remarkable contributions to the realm of voice acting and his iconic portrayal of Rabbit, the charming and witty inhabitant of the Hundred Acre Wood, serving as a lasting testament to his enduring legacy.
