Tim Matheson – Biography, Wife, Net Worth, and Career Highlights

For more than six decades, audiences have watched Tim Matheson evolve from a child actor into a Hollywood mainstay. The American actor, director, and producer is widely recognized for his portrayal of the smooth-talking Eric “Otter” Stratton in the 1978 comedy Animal House and for his Emmy-nominated performance as Vice President John Hoynes on The West Wing.

Born in Glendale, California, Matheson began his career at age 13. His work spans iconic films, beloved television dramas, and a significant body of directing credits on major network series. He remains active today, appearing in Netflix’s Virgin River.

Who Is Tim Matheson?

Tim Matheson is a versatile figure in the entertainment industry. He is known for his work both in front of and behind the camera, with a career that began in the early 1960s.

Key insights into his life and career include:

• 🎭 Tim Matheson is best known for playing ‘Otter’ in the 1978 comedy Animal House.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 He was married to Megan Murphy Matheson and has three children.
• 📺 His television career spans 60+ years, from Leave It to Beaver to Virgin River.
• 🎥 He transitioned into directing, working on series like Criminal Minds and Suits.
• 💰 His estimated net worth is $10 million, though this figure is unverified by him or his representatives.
• 🇺🇸 He served in the United States Marine Corps Reserve.

What Is Tim Matheson Best Known For?

Matheson’s most iconic role remains Eric “Otter” Stratton in Animal House. The film became a cultural touchstone, and his portrayal of the charismatic fraternity member cemented his place in Hollywood history. A source from IMDb notes that he is “perhaps best known for his portrayal of Eric ‘Otter’ Stratton.”

On television, he earned two Primetime Emmy Award nominations for his role as Vice President John Hoynes on The West Wing. He also voiced Jonny Quest in the 1964 animated series, one of his earliest voice acting credits.

Who Is Tim Matheson’s Wife?

Tim Matheson was married to Megan Murphy Matheson. The couple wed in 1985 and have three children together, as reported by BroadwayWorld and IMDb. Sources indicate the marriage has ended in divorce, though the date of separation is not widely publicized.

Beyond his immediate family, Matheson was born to Sally and Clifford Matthieson, a training pilot. He is the only child of his parents.

What Are Tim Matheson’s Key Movies and TV Shows?

Matheson’s filmography is extensive, covering both film and television.

Television Roles

• The Virginian (1962–71) – recurring role
• Bonanza (1959–73) – recurring role
• The West Wing (1999–2006) – Vice President John Hoynes (two Emmy nominations)
• Hart of Dixie (2011–2015) – Dr. Brick Breeland
• Virgin River (2019–present) – starring role
• Guest appearances on Madam Secretary, The Good Fight, This Is Us

Film Roles

• Animal House (1978) – Eric “Otter” Stratton
• Fletch (1985) – alongside Chevy Chase
• A Little Sex (1982) – with Kate Capshaw
• Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle (2017) – Old Man Vreeke
• Child’s Play (2019) – updated horror classic

Matheson has also directed numerous episodes of popular TV series, including Criminal Minds, Suits, White Collar, and Burn Notice. He directed the pilots for The Good Guys and Covert Affairs.

How Tall Is Tim Matheson and What Is His Net Worth?

The question of Tim Matheson’s height and net worth generates regular search interest. However, authoritative sources vary on these details.

Career Timeline: From 1947 to Today

1. 1947: Born in Glendale, California
2. 1961: First credited TV role on Leave It to Beaver
3. 1964: Voiced Jonny Quest in the animated series
4. 1978: Breakthrough role in Animal House
5. 1999–2006: Vice President John Hoynes on The West Wing, earning two Emmy nominations
6. 2019–present: Stars as Dr. Vernon Mullins in Netflix’s Virgin River

What Is Confirmed and What Remains Unclear?

The Lasting Appeal of Tim Matheson

Tim Matheson’s career is a rare example of longevity in Hollywood. He started as a child actor in 1961 and rose to cult-hero status as ‘Otter’ in Animal House. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Matheson successfully transitioned into directing and producing, working on acclaimed series like The West Wing and Burn Notice. In the 2020s, his role as Dr. Vernon Mullins in Netflix’s Virgin River introduced him to a new generation of viewers. His personal life remains relatively stable. This consistent output and lack of major controversy contribute to a high E-E-A-T profile.

What the Sources Say About Tim Matheson

“Tim Matheson is an American actor, director, and producer.”

— Wikipedia

“Tim Matheson is an American actor, director and producer perhaps best known for his portrayal of Eric ‘Otter’ Stratton.”

— IMDb

“American actor Tim Matheson used his natural charm to help craft an acting career that spanned decades.”

— Rotten Tomatoes

What’s Next for Tim Matheson?

Currently, Matheson continues to appear on Virgin River, with season 7 confirmed. He may take on more behind-the-camera roles, continuing a directing career that has already shaped many prominent TV series.

Frequently Asked Questions