6 Things You May Not Know About Matthew Broderick
Matthew Broderick, now 63, made his mark in Hollywood in the ’80s, starring in WarGames, Ladyhawke and, of course, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off. His career then flourished with performances in Glory, The Cable Guy and Godzilla, along with his iconic voice work as adult Simba in Disney’s The Lion King. He also found great success on Broadway, winning two Tony Awards for Brighton Beach Memoirs and How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying.
His contributions to entertainment were recognized with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2006 and an induction into the American Theater Hall of Fame in 2017. He has been married to fellow actor Sarah Jessica Parker since 1997 and they share three kids together. Despite being such a well-known star, there’s still plenty about Broderick that might surprise you. Here are six things you might not have known about the Ferris Bueller’s Day Off actor.
1 He was almost Alex P. Keaton
Paramount Pictures/ Everett Collection
Before Michael J. Fox became a household name playing Alex P. Keaton on Family Ties, the role was actually offered to Broderick. He turned it down because he didn’t want to commit to a television series. He instead focused on film and stage roles, starring in Brighton Beach Memoirs and WarGames during the early ’80s.
This wasn’t the only role he turned down. He reportedly also turned down or was considered for the roles of Bruce Wayne/Batman in Batman, Johnny Utah in Point Break, Brad Hamilton in Fast Times at Ridgemont High, Walter White on Breaking Bad, Michael Boll in Bad Influence, Homer Wells in The Cider House Rules, Joel Goodson in Risky Business and Douglas Quaid in Total Recall. Can you imagine him in some of these roles?
2 He had a heartwarming weekly tradition with his mother
Suzanne Tenner/FX Network/Everett Collection
Even after getting married and becoming a father, Broderick maintained a special bond with his mother, Patricia Broderick. From 1981 until her passing in 2003, he had dinner with her every Sunday night at her home. Patricia was a playwright and painter who significantly influenced her son’s artistic inclinations, and he honored her by staying close to her and sticking to their traditions.
3 He was involved in a tragic car accident with Jennifer Grey
Everett Collection
While vacationing in Ireland with his then-girlfriend Jennifer Grey in 1987, Broderick was involved in a devastating car crash. He was seriously injured, and tragically, the two passengers in the other vehicle lost their lives. The accident left a lasting impact on both Broderick and Grey, who was at the height of her Dirty Dancing fame at the time. Despite the trauma, Broderick continued his acting career, and today returns to Ireland frequently with his family, as they own a vacation home in Donegal.
4 He studied with a Reiki master
Ali Goldstein/NBC/Everett Collection
Broderick has an unexpected spiritual side: He spent years studying with a well-known Reiki master in Brooklyn. Reiki, a Japanese alternative healing practice, involves channeling energy through touch to promote healing. Spirituality and healing runs in the family, as one of his sisters is a minister (she performed his marriage to wife Sarah Jessica Parker!), while another is a therapist.
5 He almost played Prince Eric in The Little Mermaid
Universal/Everett Collection
Before voicing Simba in The Lion King, Broderick was considered for the voice of Prince Eric in The Little Mermaid. Though he ultimately didn’t take on the part, his connection to Disney remained strong, leading to one of his most beloved roles as the adult Simba in the 1994 animated classic. Many love his portrayal in the film, proving that sometimes, the right role comes along at just the right time.
6 He and Nathan Lane received stars together
Mark Mainz/Getty Images
Broderick and longtime friend The Producers costar Nathan Lane were honored in a double ceremony at the Hollywood Walk of Fame. On Jan. 9, 2006, the duo received their stars side-by-side. The two actors have maintained a strong friendship throughout their careers, even reuniting for It’s Only a Play on Broadway in 2014. Their comedic chemistry has made them one of Broadway’s most beloved duos.
Remind 
’80s Where Are They Now
March 2023
Who can forget all the great TV shows, movies and music of the ‘80s? See what your favs are up to now!
Buy This Issue