Matthew Corbett, a celebrated and accomplished English television personality, writer, and skilled puppeteer, has garnered widespread recognition and acclaim for his captivating presence on screen, particularly in his iconic roles as the presenter of The Sooty Show and later Sooty and Co.
Matthew was born on March 28, 1948, in the charming town of Guiseley, situated in the West Riding of Yorkshire, a region steeped in history and culture. His early life was characterized by a pivotal decision that would have a profound impact on the trajectory of his future. It was during the late 1960s that Matthew faced a dilemma, as he discovered that another individual named Peter Corbett was already enrolled at the drama school he had his heart set on attending.
In order to avoid any confusion and ensure a unique identity, Matthew made the bold decision to retain his surname and adopt the first name Matthew. This choice would ultimately prove to be a defining factor in shaping his professional persona, as it would set him apart from others and establish him as a distinct individual in the world of entertainment.
Matthew's professional acting journey started to unfold with a pivotal guest appearance in the 1971 Doctor Who serial, The Dæmons, where he took on the role of Jones, marking a significant milestone in his burgeoning career.
As his acting career continued to flourish, Matthew became a stalwart performer on the esteemed Thames Television children's show, Rainbow, where he had the opportunity to hone his multifaceted talents in singing, performing, and writing alongside his colleagues Rod Burton and Jane Tucker, collectively known as Rod, Matt, and Jane.
Together, the trio brought their unique blend of creativity, energy, and entertainment to the show, captivating young audiences and cementing their status as beloved fixtures of the children's television landscape.
Matthew's tenure with the group came to a close in the year 1976, marking the end of his time as a member of the beloved trio known as Rod, Jane, and Matthew, which later underwent a name change to Rod, Jane, and Roger, and eventually, Rod, Jane, and Freddy. As his time with Rainbow drew to a close, Matthew made the decision to leave the show and take over The Sooty Show from his father, the renowned Harry Corbett, who had decided to retire. In a memorable and special episode of Rainbow, titled "The VIP," Matthew made a guest appearance alongside the iconic Sooty, leaving a lasting impression on fans of the show.
Matthew Corbett, a renowned television presenter, embarked on an illustrious journey, dedicating an astonishing 22 years to hosting The Sooty Show, ultimately retiring in 1998. In a testament to his enduring legacy, Matthew carefully selected Richard Cadell as his successor, ensuring the show's continued success. Throughout his remarkable career, Matthew has made notable appearances on a diverse range of popular television programs, including the iconic This Is Your Life, the beloved Telly Addicts, and the lively Light Lunch.
