Matt Mathews
Matt Mathews is an American comedian, musician and photographer. He is best known for his farm-themed comedy videos on TikTok, his national stand-up comedy tours, and his work in boudoir photography.[1]
Early life and education
[edit]Mathews was born and raised near Birmingham, Alabama.[2] He graduated from McAdory High School in McCalla in 2011.[3] He initially enrolled in a nursing program at Jefferson State Community College but left to pursue photography.[4][5]
Career
[edit]Mathews began working as a photographer at the age of 16, initially focusing on wedding photography.[6] Later, he transitioned to boudoir photography after finding the niche.[6] He operates a studio in downtown Birmingham.[6]
In 2019, Mathews published his memoir, Uncovered: The Naked Truth of Life, Love and Addiction, in which he shared personal experiences, including childhood poverty, his mother’s addiction and his journey toward self-acceptance.[6]
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Mathews began posting comedic videos of his daily farm chores on TikTok, one of which garnered over 13 million views.[6][1][4] His content, which blends humor with stories from his life on the farm and his experiences growing up gay in the South, quickly gained a wide following.[7][8] This led to his debut national stand-up comedy tour in 2023, titled When That Thang Get Ta Thang'n.[2]
In 2024, Mathews recorded his first comedy special at the Alabama Theatre and signed with Creative Artists Agency (CAA).[9] He launched his second tour, Boujee on a Budget, later that year.[10] Following a sold-out 52-city run, he announced more than 30 additional shows for 2025 with a finale at Birmingham’s 17,000-seat Legacy Arena.[1][3][11]
Music
[edit]Encouraged by singer-songwriter Jewel, Mathews began pursuing a career in country music.[12] He has released debut singles, including "Joke's On Me" and "What a War".[3] His full-length, self-titled country album is scheduled for release in fall 2025.[12] In May 2025, Mathews performed songs from the upcoming album at a benefit event in Birmingham supporting the Animal League of Birmingham.[11][12]
Personal life
[edit]Mathews is openly gay and married Rob Killgore in 2016. The couple lives on a farm near Birmingham, Alabama.[4][10]
Mathews is an animal advocate and has spent years rehabilitating animals, particularly opossums.[13] He is also a professional barrel racer and has qualified for the world championships at least three times.[6]
References
[edit]- ^ a b c Colurso, Mary (July 19, 2024). "'It's been a whirlwind': Alabama social media superstar on his 'insane' year and newfound success". AL.
- ^ a b Nunn, Jerry (February 26, 2025). "Matt Mathews brings a Boujee Budget to The Chicago Theatre". Windy City Times.
- ^ a b c Nicole, Ashlee (May 16, 2025). "Matt Matthews extends 'Boujee on a Budget' tour with show at Legacy Arena". WBRC.
- ^ a b c Gladstone, Jim (November 21, 2023). "Matt Mathews: TikTok phenom plays the Regency Ballroom". Bay Area Reporter.
- ^ Solomon, Matt (April 5, 2024). "5 Ways Boudoir Photography Made Matt Mathews A Better Comedian". Cracked.com.
- ^ a b c d e f Matthews, Michelle (April 27, 2021). "The double life of Birmingham photographer Matt Mathews". AL.
- ^ "The Funniest Comics Taping Comedy Specials This Month (July 2024)". July 2, 2024.
- ^ Colurso, Mary (February 28, 2023). "How an Alabama man became a TikTok star with funny farm videos ('I hate it here!')". AL.
- ^ Grobar, Matt (May 14, 2024). "CAA Signs Comedian Matt Mathews". Deadline.com.
- ^ a b "Meet Matt Mathews — the very funny 'platinum star gay'". Pride.com.
- ^ a b Colurso, Mary (May 14, 2025). "Alabama social media star makes big leap to largest concert venue in his hometown: 'Shut up!'". AL.
- ^ a b c Colurso, Mary (April 14, 2025). "'My first passion': Alabama social media star makes risky move after major comedy success". AL.
- ^ Hrynkiw, Ivana (September 26, 2021). "Photographer, social media star Matt Mathews: Opossum taken by the state was his 'baby'". AL.