Matthew Modine is an acclaimed American actor, director, and activist best known for his roles in Full Metal Jacket, Vision Quest, and Stranger Things. With a career spanning over four decades, he has showcased his versatility across film, television, and theater. Beyond acting, Modine is a passionate advocate for environmental sustainability and cycling initiatives.
Early Life
Matthew Avery Modine was born on March 22, 1959, in Loma Linda, California, as the youngest of seven children to Dolores, a bookkeeper, and Mark Alexander Modine, a drive-in theater manager. His family moved frequently due to his father’s occupation, living in various locations across Utah and California. Eventually, they settled in Imperial Beach, California, where Modine graduated from Mar Vista High School in 1977.
Inspired by his surroundings and experiences, Modine developed an interest in the performing arts. After high school, he relocated to New York City in 1979 to pursue acting. There, he studied under renowned acting coach Stella Adler at her Conservatory of Acting. While still a student, Modine began securing starring roles in film, marking the beginning of his professional career.
Family
Ben Cleveland was born on August 25, 1998, in Toccoa, Georgia, to parents Derek and Andrea Cleveland. He has an older brother, Ryan Cleveland, who played collegiate baseball at Georgia Southern University.
In his personal life, Ben is married to Kaitlyn Terrell Cleveland. Both hailing from Georgia, they attended the University of Georgia together. Kaitlyn graduated in April 2022 and works as a digital creator.
Detailed Bio Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Matthew Avery Modine |
| Date of Birth | March 22, 1959 |
| Place of Birth | Loma Linda, California, USA |
| Parents | Dolores Modine (Mother), Mark Alexander Modine (Father) |
| Spouse | Caridad Rivera (m. 1980) |
| Children | Boman Mark Rivera Modine, Ruby Wylder Rivera Modine |
| Education | Mar Vista High School; Brigham Young University; Stella Adler Studio of Acting |
| Height | 6 feet 3 inches (1.91 meters) |
| Net Worth | Approximately $10 million (as of 2025) |
Career
Early Years and College
Cleveland’s football journey began at Stephens County High School in Toccoa, Georgia. His impressive performance earned him a scholarship to the University of Georgia, where he played as an offensive lineman. Standing 6 feet 6 inches tall and weighing 335 pounds, Cleveland was a formidable presence on the field.
During his tenure with the Georgia Bulldogs, Cleveland developed a reputation for his strength and skill, contributing significantly to the team’s offensive line.
Professional Career
In the 2021 NFL Draft, Cleveland was selected by the Baltimore Ravens in the third round. His transition to the professional league showcased his adaptability and commitment to the sport. Throughout his time with the Ravens, Cleveland has played in multiple games, primarily contributing on special teams. Notably, he has made significant plays, including blocking a field goal in a past game.
Recent Developments
As of February 2025, Cleveland faced legal issues when he was arrested in Georgia on charges of driving under the influence. The incident occurred near Milledgeville, where authorities observed his vehicle weaving outside its lane. Cleveland admitted to consuming alcohol prior to driving, and subsequent tests indicated a blood alcohol level above the legal limit. The Baltimore Ravens have yet to release an official statement regarding the incident.
Matthew Modine’s Recent Movies
| Movie Title | Release Year | Role | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hard Miles | 2024 | Greg Townsend | Portrays a beleaguered coach who leads teenage inmates on a transformative 762-mile bicycle ride from Denver to the Grand Canyon. |
| Retribution | 2023 | TBA | Appears in this action thriller alongside Liam Neeson, involving a businessman caught in a dangerous situation while driving his children. |
| Chance | 2020 | Mike Daly | Stars in this drama based on the true story of a teenager from Ohio, exploring themes of youth and tragedy. |
| Foster Boy | 2019 | Michael Trainer | Plays a lawyer assigned to represent a young man in a lawsuit against a foster care agency, delving into systemic issues within the foster care system. |
| Operation Varsity Blues: The College Admissions Scandal | 2021 | Rick Singer | Features as the central figure in this documentary-drama about the 2019 college admissions bribery scandal. |
Latest News
As of February 2025, Matthew Modine is commemorating the 40th anniversary of his film “Vision Quest.” In recent interviews, he has reflected on the film’s impact and shared behind-the-scenes anecdotes, highlighting its enduring significance in his career.
Height and Physical Appearance
Standing at 6 feet 3 inches (1.91 meters), Modine possesses a slender frame that has complemented a diverse range of roles throughout his career. His tall stature and distinctive presence have made him a memorable figure in both film and theater.
Social Media Accounts
| Platform | Username | Official Link |
|---|---|---|
| @matthewmodine | https://www.instagram.com/matthewmodine/ | |
| @MatthewModine | https://twitter.com/MatthewModine | |
| Matthew Modine | https://www.facebook.com/actorMatthewModine |
Net Worth as of 2025
As of 2025, Matthew Modine’s estimated net worth is approximately $10 million. This wealth has been accumulated through his extensive work in film, television, and theater, as well as various directorial and production ventures.
People also ask
Was Matthew Modine in Top Gun?
No, Matthew Modine was not in Top Gun. He was actually offered the role of Maverick but turned it down due to his opposition to the film’s pro-military themes. The role eventually went to Tom Cruise.
How old was Matthew Modine when he filmed Vision Quest?
Matthew Modine was around 24 years old when he filmed Vision Quest (1985), where he played the role of Louden Swain, a high school wrestler.
Who is Matthew Modine to Millie Bobby Brown?
Matthew Modine played Dr. Martin Brenner, also known as “Papa,” in Stranger Things, where he was a father figure and scientist overseeing Eleven, played by Millie Bobby Brown.
Who does Matthew Modine play in Oppenheimer?
In Oppenheimer (2023), Matthew Modine played Vannevar Bush, an influential American engineer and inventor who was a key figure in the Manhattan Project.
