Matthew Lillard – Height, Age, Net Worth and Iconic Roles

Matthew Lillard is an American actor, director, and producer who has built a career defined by iconic genre roles. From the manic energy of Stu Macher in the 1996 slasher *Scream* to the physical comedy of Shaggy in the live-action *Scooby-Doo* films, and more recently the terrifying William Afton in *Five Nights at Freddy’s* (2023), Lillard has demonstrated remarkable range. His journey from a young theater student to a horror legend and voice-acting staple is a story of persistence and reinvention.

Born in Lansing, Michigan, and raised in California, Lillard’s path to Hollywood was shaped by classical training. He studied at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in Pasadena and later at the Circle in the Square in New York City, grounding his unpredictable screen presence in solid technique. The following breakdown covers his personal stats, major roles, and career trajectory.

What Is Matthew Lillard’s Height, Age, and Net Worth?

The most commonly searched biographical details about Matthew Lillard revolve around his physical stature and financial standing. According to IMDb, his listed height is 6′ 3½″ (1.92 m), though the overview grid reflects a rounded figure of 6 ft 1 in (1.85 m) that appears in some sources. While the exact measurement varies slightly across databases, it is clear he is notably tall, a physical trait that has often set him apart in ensemble casts.

Regarding his net worth, no verified figure exists in the provided materials. Third-party sites estimate it between $5 million and $10 million, but these numbers are speculative and have not been confirmed by Lillard or his representatives. His age, however, is well-documented: he was born on January 24, 1970, making him 55 as of 2025.

• Matthew Lillard is best known for playing Stu Macher in the 1996 horror classic *Scream*.
• He voiced William Afton in the *Five Nights at Freddy’s* film and game adaptations, reigniting his popularity.
• Lillard played Shaggy in the *Scooby-Doo* live-action films (2002, 2004).
• His net worth is widely estimated but not officially confirmed; figures vary between $5–10 million.
• Lillard’s early career included breakout roles in *Serial Mom* (1994) and *SLC Punk!* (1998).
• He has had a resurgence in recent years, particularly with the *FNAF* franchise and *Scream* legacy events.

What Are Matthew Lillard’s Most Notable Movie and TV Roles?

Lillard’s filmography spans three decades, but a few key roles define his public identity. His work ranges from horror and comedy to drama and voice acting, often playing characters who are either intensely energetic or quietly menacing.

What role did Matthew Lillard play in Scream?

In Wes Craven’s *Scream* (1996), Lillard played Stu Macher, one of the two teenage killers. His performance, a blend of manic humor and chilling instability, made him instantly recognizable. The character’s death scene is frequently referenced in pop culture, and the role is widely considered his career breakthrough. Multiple sources, including Wikipedia and Rotten Tomatoes, identify *Scream* as the film that made him widely known. For more on his co-star, see the Winona Ryder Movies and TV Shows feature.

Who does Matthew Lillard play in Five Nights at Freddy’s?

In the live-action adaptation of *Five Nights at Freddy’s* (2023), Lillard played William Afton, the serial killer at the center of the franchise’s lore. He was cast in 2022, and the film’s release that year renewed mainstream attention on him. This role introduced him to a younger, game-literate audience and solidified his status as a modern horror icon.

Has Matthew Lillard worked with Quentin Tarantino?

Despite persistent fan speculation, Matthew Lillard has not appeared in any Quentin Tarantino films. This is a common point of confusion, likely because his high-energy performance style would seem a natural fit for Tarantino’s dialogue-driven scenes. However, no verified credits link him to Tarantino’s projects.

What is Matthew Lillard’s role in Daredevil?

In the *Daredevil* television series (Netflix), Lillard played Benjamin “Dex” Poindexter, a recurring role in the third season. His character, often referred to as “Dex,” is a complex antagonist whose arc explores obsessive behavior and moral decay. The role demonstrated Lillard’s ability to shift from comedic parts to serious dramatic work. For another actor linked to the *Scream* universe, read about Timothy Olyphant Movies and TV Shows.

How Did Matthew Lillard’s Early Life and Career Begin?

Matthew Lillard was born in Lansing, Michigan, but his family moved to Tustin, California, during his first grade year. He spent the rest of his childhood in Tustin, graduating from high school there. His formal training began at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in Pasadena, followed by studies at the Circle in the Square in New York City.

His first film appearance was an uncredited extra role in *Ghoulies III: Ghoulies Go to College* (1990). The first significant featured role came in 1994, when he played Chip in John Waters’ *Serial Mom*. The following year, he played the computer hacker “Cereal Killer” in *Hackers* (1995). These early parts, while small, established him as a go-to actor for quirky, high-energy characters.

Timeline of Matthew Lillard’s Career

1. 1970: Born in Lansing, Michigan.
2. 1990: Early stage and TV appearances; uncredited role in *Ghoulies III*.
3. 1994: Breakout role in *Serial Mom*.
4. 1996: Stars as Stu Macher in *Scream*.
5. 1998: Leads in *SLC Punk!* and *The Faculty*.
6. 2002: Plays Shaggy in *Scooby-Doo* live-action film.
7. 2022: Cast in the *Five Nights at Freddy’s* film.
8. 2023: Voices William Afton in *Five Nights at Freddy’s*.
9. 2024–2025: Cultural status as horror icon solidifies.

What Is Confirmed and What Remains Unclear About Matthew Lillard?

What Context Explains Matthew Lillard’s Career Trajectory?

Matthew Lillard’s career trajectory is emblematic of a 1990s breakout star who later found renewed relevance through cult horror and video game adaptations. His role as Stu Macher in *Scream* remains a defining moment in slasher history. The *FNAF* role (William Afton) introduced him to a younger generation, demonstrating cross-generational appeal. Lillard’s openness on social media, particularly Instagram and TikTok, has built a strong personal brand that engages fans directly. No major controversies have tarnished his reputation, contributing to a steady stream of work.

What Are the Key Sources for Information on Matthew Lillard?

The most reliable information comes from Wikipedia, which provides a verified biography and filmography. IMDb offers a professional filmography and credits. Personal insights and fan interaction are available on his official Instagram and TikTok accounts. Interviews with outlets like Collider and Variety have covered his career resurgence, and official studio sites provide details for the *Scream* and *FNAF* franchises.

“Wikipedia: Provides verified biography and filmography.”

— Wikipedia

“IMDB: Professional filmography and credits.”

— IMDb

What Lies Ahead for Matthew Lillard?

A potential sequel to the *Five Nights at Freddy’s* film is highly anticipated by fans. Lillard continues to post actively on social media, hinting at new projects. He may appear in future horror or voice-over roles, given current demand.

Frequently Asked Questions