Matt Damon was born in Cambridge, Massachusetts, to Kent Telfer Damon, a stockbroker, and Nancy Carlsson-Paige, an early childhood education professor at Lesley University. His father had English and Scottish ancestry, while his mother is of Finnish and Swedish descent.

Damon attended Cambridge Alternative School and Cambridge Rindge and Latin School, where he took drama classes and was influenced by his drama teacher Gerry Speca. He also became close friends with Ben Affleck, a future collaborator in several films.

At age 18, Damon landed a small part in the movie 'Mystic Pizza' and also enrolled in Harvard University as an English major. He later appeared in the television movie 'Rising Son' (1990) and left Harvard to pursue an acting career.

Damon appeared in 'School Ties' (1992) and 'Geronimo: An American Legend' (1993), which preceded his acclaimed performance in 'Courage Under Fire' (1996), attracting the attention of director Francis Ford Coppola.

Damon co-wrote and starred in 'Good Will Hunting', for which he won an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay. He also starred in 'The Rainmaker' (1997), directed by Francis Ford Coppola.

Damon appeared in 'Saving Private Ryan' (1998), directed by Steven Spielberg, and 'The Talented Mr. Ripley' (1999), directed by Anthony Minghella, further solidifying his reputation as a versatile actor.

Damon starred in 'Titan A.E.' (2000), 'Ocean's Eleven' (2001), and 'The Bourne Identity' (2002), which marked the beginning of the successful Bourne film series.

Damon married Luciana Bozán Barroso, with whom he has four children. He has been recognized for his philanthropic efforts, including his involvement with Not On Our Watch and GreenDimes.

Damon was awarded the Harvard Arts Medal in recognition of his contributions to the arts.

Matt Damon continues to be active in film, with recent projects including 'Oppenheimer' and ongoing involvement in various philanthropic endeavors.