Rathmullan man Jason Matthewson has quickly become one of Hollywood’s top Irish actors, securing roles in Black Ice, Transformers: The Last Knight, and Karmaa.
Beginning his acting career at just 6 years old by taking part in local stage productions, by the age of 16 he was starring in leading roles in theatre and TV in both Ireland and the UK. After finishing secondary school, Jason studied at the world-famous Stella Adler Conservatory in LA, whose alumni include superstars Marlon Brando, Robert De Niro, and Martin Sheen but to name a few.
Jason now lives between Los Angeles and London, with London being his base for the past four years.
This is Jason’s Donegal…
(1) What is your favourite place in Donegal and why?
If you’d of asked me this when I was growing up I may have had a different answer but now having lived away for a long time, I’d have to say Rathmullan. On the rare occasion the sun decides to come out there is few more beautiful places.
Living in huge cities like Los Angeles and London for the better part of ten years now I have come to appreciate the simplicity and calm of home.
(2) If you could change one thing about Donegal what would it be?
When I was growing up Donegal especially but specifically around the coastline so Rathmullan, Buncrana, Downings etc. were buzzing with tourism and life. It was a bustling time. I remember it very fondly but now a days things have changed and I understand that’s in part down to economy among many other things but I’d love to see some of that come back as it was only a good thing for all involved.
(3) Who is the one person that you look up to and why?
I don’t know that I have someone in particular that I look up to but there are many I admire whether that’s based on their career or in life. As an actor and a Donegal one at that, it would be hard not to mention our very own late Brian Friel. I’ve had the pleasure of working on many of Brian’s works and meeting the man not long before he passed. My parents obviously would be right up at the top of my list. Then there is a long list of industry people I admire from fellow actors or producers to writer and filmmakers, the list could go on for a while.