Texas native Matthew McConaughey is one of Hollywood’s most sought-after leading men. A chance meeting in Austin with casting director and producer Don Phillips led him to director Richard Linklater, who launched the actor’s career in the cult classic “Dazed and Confused.”

Since then, McConaughey has won an Academy Award for his portrayal of Ron Woodruff in "Dallas Buyers Club," appeared in over 40 feature films that have grossed over $1 billion, and has become a producer, director, and philanthropist with his “Just Keep Livin’” Foundation – all the while sticking to his Texas roots and “just keep livin’” philosophy.

McConaughey also serves as creative director for Wild Turkey and has co-created his own bourbon, Longbranch. He serves as Minister of Culture (M.O.C.) for the University of Texas Athletic Department and The Austin FC Soccer Club, where he is part owner. He currently resides in Austin, Texas with his wife Camilla and their three kids, and is a professor at the University of Texas in Austin.

Actors, Entertainers, Texas, Academy Award, Republican Party, Filmmaking, influential, high profile, Celebrity, Film Industry, Television Actor, Television & Film, Obesity Prevention, Political, Acting, SXSW, Football, NFL