Matt Heath is a dynamic force in New Zealand's entertainment landscape, known for his sharp wit, fearless creativity, and boundless energy.
He first burst onto the scene in 2001 with the cult hit Back of the Y Masterpiece Television, a late-night stunt show he created, produced, and starred in alongside his high school friends. The show’s anarchic humor resonated with audiences, leading to international spin-offs, including MTV Europe Stunt Night and Balls of Steel (UK), as well as the feature film The Devil Dared Me To, in which he played the lead role of Dick Johansonson.
At the same time, Matt made waves in the music world with his band Deja Voodoo, breaking into the charts with Brown Sabbath and the anthemic Beers. The band’s raucous energy fueled multiple albums and national tours, cementing them as icons of Kiwi rock.
Returning to New Zealand permanently after the birth of his first child, Matt seamlessly transitioned into television production and later found his true calling in radio. For over a decade, he co-hosted The Matt and Jerry Breakfast Show on Radio Hauraki, forging an unbreakable bond with listeners through his irreverent humor and insightful takes on life. In 2023, he stepped into the role of hosting Newstalk ZB Afternoons, taking over from Simon Barnett and bringing his unique mix of intellect, humor, and relatability to a broader audience.
A passionate sports commentator, Matt has been a key voice for the Alternative Commentary Collective (ACC) since 2015, lending his distinctive style to cricket, rugby, and sailing coverage. His influence extends into print, where, after a decade as a columnist for the New Zealand Herald, he was named the paper’s Happiness Editor in 2021, allowing him to explore and advocate for men’s mental health. This work culminated in the release of his bestselling book A Life Less Punishing: 13 Ways to Love the Life You Got in 2024, quickly followed by The Alternative Commentary Collective Almanack.
Matt’s presence on television has remained strong, with appearances on Taskmaster NZ, The Project, Best Bits, Have You Been Paying Attention, Traitors, and Game of Two Halves, among others. Meanwhile, his podcasts, The Matt and Jerry Daily Bespoke and The Agenda, have become fan favorites, attracting millions of downloads annually.
Matt balances his career with family life, sharing his home with his partner and two teenage sons while continuing to entertain, provoke thought, and bring laughter to audiences.
