Matthew Robinson is a renowned British-Cambodian television director and producer with a prolific career spanning over five decades. Born and raised in Huntingdon, he pursued a degree in Economics from King's College, Cambridge University, before commencing his television career as a researcher for ATV (Associated Television) in 1966.
Robinson's early work included current affairs programs such as The Money Programme (1966) and Nationwide (1969),before transitioning to directing drama series and soap operas. His impressive portfolio includes notable productions like Coronation Street (1960),Emmerdale Farm (1972),Brookside (1982),Howards' Way (1985),and EastEnders (1985),earning him the nickname "The Pope of Soap" in the tabloids.
In addition to his work in soap operas, Robinson also ventured into science-fiction, directing episodes of Doctor Who (1963),including the challenging Daleks in Resurrection of the Daleks: Part One (1984) and Attack of the Cybermen: Part One (1985). His expertise in visual style, tension, drama, and pace brought excitement to the series during that period.
Robinson played a crucial role in the early days of EastEnders (1985),collaborating closely with creator Julia Smith to cast actors and direct early episodes. He also brought Leslie Grantham to the series, an actor he had previously worked with on Doctor Who (1963).
As the 1980s progressed, Robinson shifted his focus to producing, achieving great success with the long-running children's drama Byker Grove (1989),which tackled important issues for its young audience. He later returned to EastEnders (1985) as executive producer from 1998 to 2000 and became Head of Drama for BBC Wales in 2000, establishing its reputation as the BBC's new home for drama programs.
Robinson's dedication to tackling social issues continued with his work on Taste of Life (2004),a series aimed at providing important health messages to the Cambodian population, particularly regarding HIV/AIDS. The show's engaging storytelling and important messages resonated with the audience, with more than half the population watching the series.
In 2006, Robinson established his own film and TV production company, KMF (Khmer Mekong Films),which has since produced hundreds of hours of TV drama for local channels and 10 feature films in the Khmer language.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions to Cambodian television and film, Robinson was awarded Cambodian Citizenship by Prime Minister Samdach Hun Sen in 2020, on the recommendation of Cambodia's Minister of Culture.
