Matt William Knowles is a multifaceted American actor who has made a significant impact in both Hollywood and Chinese cinema. Born and raised in South Carolina, he initially pursued a career in football, but an injury led him to explore alternative paths.
In his quest for purpose, Knowles relocated to a remote part of China, where he dedicated himself to humanitarian work, teaching, and volunteering in underprivileged communities. His unexpected discovery at a karaoke bar marked the beginning of his foray into the Chinese film industry.
With his proficiency in Mandarin, Knowles rapidly gained recognition as one of the most prominent foreign actors in China, taking on a diverse array of roles in television and film. His early work consisted of historical dramas and action films, ultimately leading to a pivotal role in Asura (2018),China's first $100 million blockbuster.
Knowles' performance in Son of the South (2020),a civil rights drama produced by Spike Lee, earned him international acclaim. Undeterred by his success, he sought to hone his craft by training at the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London before returning to the screen.
Recent highlights in Knowles' career include his portrayal of Barrett, a Shanghai police captain, in Burning Star, and Thor, an American football star, in Clash, which premiered at the Rotterdam International Film Festival in 2025. He also starred as William, a German weapons expert, in War on Faith, and appeared in the historical war series Winter and Lion.
Now, with his international profile established, Knowles continues to bring his remarkable versatility and depth to a wide range of roles across various genres, solidifying his position as a talented and sought-after actor.
