Matthew Beard
Actor
About Matthew Beard
Matthew Beard Jr. was a prolific American child actor best known for his iconic portrayal of 'Stymie' in the Our Gang (Little Rascals) short films produced by Hal Roach. Born in Los Angeles, he entered the film industry as a toddler, making his debut in 'Teacher's Pet' (1930) and quickly becoming one of the most recognizable faces of the early sound era. His character was defined by a trademark oversized derby hat—a gift from comedian Stan Laurel—and a witty, cool-headed demeanor that often served as the pragmatic voice of the group. Beard appeared in 36 Our Gang shorts between 1930 and 1935, navigating the transition from silent aesthetics to the nuanced dialogue of early talkies with remarkable naturalism. After leaving the series at age ten, he struggled to find substantial roles due to the industry's limited opportunities for maturing African American actors, often being relegated to uncredited bit parts. Despite a difficult period in adulthood involving substance abuse and incarceration, he successfully rehabilitated his life in the 1960s, returning to television in the 1970s with recurring roles on shows like 'Sanford and Son' and 'Good Times.'
The Craft
On Screen
Beard was noted for his understated, deadpan delivery and naturalistic comedic timing, which contrasted with the more exaggerated physical comedy of his peers. He possessed a unique ability to deliver cynical or worldly-wise lines with a charming innocence, often using subtle facial expressions and a 'cool' persona that made him a standout ensemble player.
Milestones
- Signed a five-year contract with Hal Roach Studios at age five
- Replaced Allen 'Farina' Hoskins as the primary African American lead in the Our Gang series
- Appeared in 36 Our Gang short films during the Golden Age of the franchise
- Successfully transitioned to character acting in television during the 1970s
- Inducted into the Black Filmmakers Hall of Fame posthumously
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Accolades
Won
- Black Filmmakers Hall of Fame (Inducted 2006)
- Special Recognition from the Young Artist Foundation (Posthumous)
Special Recognition
- Commemorative plaque at the site of the former Hal Roach Studios
- Featured in the 'Our Gang' star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame (as part of the ensemble)
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
As 'Stymie,' Beard broke significant ground for African American performers in mainstream cinema. Unlike many contemporary depictions of Black characters which relied on extreme caricature, Stymie was portrayed as an intelligent, resourceful, and integral member of the gang. His presence in the racially integrated 'Our Gang' shorts provided a rare, positive representation of interracial friendship during a period of intense segregation in the United States. His character's wit and style influenced generations of Black comedians who saw him as a precursor to the 'cool' archetype in American media.
Lasting Legacy
Matthew Beard's legacy is defined by his contribution to the most successful short film franchise in history. He remains a beloved figure in classic television syndication, where 'The Little Rascals' introduced his work to new generations. His successful mid-life turnaround from addiction to a respected character actor serves as a poignant narrative of resilience in the face of the 'child star curse.' He is remembered not just for a hat and a smile, but for bringing dignity and humor to his roles during a restrictive era for Black actors.
Who They Inspired
His deadpan delivery and relaxed screen presence influenced later child stars and comedic actors like Eddie Murphy, who cited the Little Rascals as an early influence. His ability to hold the screen alongside major stars of the 1930s set a standard for child performance that emphasized personality over theatricality.
Off Screen
Beard grew up in a large family in Los Angeles; several of his siblings, including Carlena and Bobbie Beard, also appeared in Our Gang shorts. His father, Matthew Beard Sr., worked as a minister. In his adult years, Beard faced significant personal struggles with heroin addiction, which led to multiple prison sentences in the 1950s and 60s. However, he achieved long-term sobriety through the Synanon program and spent much of his later life as a motivational speaker and advocate for drug rehabilitation.
Education
Attended local schools in Los Angeles during his child acting years; later received vocational training and rehabilitation education during his time at Synanon.
Family
- Johnnie Mae Beard (dates unavailable)
Did You Know?
- His nickname 'Stymie' was given to him by director Robert McGowan because the young Beard was always 'stymieing' the director by wandering around the set.
- The oversized derby hat he wore in the Our Gang films was a personal gift from Stan Laurel of Laurel and Hardy fame.
- He was paid $100 a week at the start of his contract, which was a significant sum during the Great Depression.
- Beard's younger brother, Bobbie 'Cotton' Beard, and his sister, Carlena Beard, also appeared in Our Gang shorts.
- He retired from acting at age 10 because he felt he was getting too old for the 'Gang' and roles for Black children were scarce.
- After his acting career waned, he worked as a bellhop and a musician before his struggles with addiction began.
- He made a notable guest appearance on the sitcom 'Sanford and Son' as a friend of Fred Sanford, marking a successful return to the screen.
- Beard suffered a stroke just days after his 56th birthday and died of pneumonia shortly thereafter.
In Their Own Words
Confidence is what you have before you understand the situation.
I'd rather have a lollipop than a girl any day.
The hat was my trademark. Stan Laurel gave it to me, and I felt like a king whenever I wore it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Matthew Beard?
Matthew Beard was a famous American child actor of the 1930s, best known for playing the character 'Stymie' in the Our Gang (Little Rascals) comedy shorts. He was celebrated for his deadpan humor and his iconic oversized derby hat.
What films is Matthew Beard best known for?
He is best known for his work in the Hal Roach 'Our Gang' series, specifically titles like 'Teacher's Pet' (1930), 'The Lucky Corner' (1936), and 'Helping Grandma' (1931). In his later years, he appeared in 'The Buddy Holly Story' and the TV show 'Sanford and Son'.
When was Matthew Beard born and when did he die?
Matthew Beard was born on January 1, 1925, in Los Angeles, California. He passed away on January 8, 1981, in Los Angeles at the age of 56 following a stroke and pneumonia.
What awards did Matthew Beard win?
While he did not win major competitive awards during his childhood career, he was posthumously inducted into the Black Filmmakers Hall of Fame in 2006 for his pioneering contributions to cinema.
What was Matthew Beard's acting style?
Beard was known for a naturalistic, low-key acting style characterized by clever dialogue delivery and expressive facial reactions. Unlike many child actors of the era who were overly theatrical, he brought a sense of 'cool' and realism to his performances.
How did Matthew Beard get the nickname 'Stymie'?
The nickname was coined by director Robert McGowan, who was often frustrated because the young actor would constantly get in the way or 'stymie' the production by wandering around the studio lot.
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Films
4 films
