The Legendary Actor-Director Still Has Hollywood in His Heart—and a Stethoscope Around His Neck
In a career spanning more than six decades, Tim Matheson has done it all: animated voiceover star, silver-screen comedy icon, Emmy-nominated dramatic actor, and acclaimed TV director. Today, fans of Netflix’s Virgin River know him best as the crusty-but-kindhearted Doc Mullins, but Matheson’s Hollywood story is one of rare longevity, reinvention, and a surprising number of genre jumps.
From Glendale to Jonny Quest
Born December 31, 1947, in Glendale, California, Matheson got an early start in entertainment. By age 13, he was already appearing on Window on Main Street and Leave It to Beaver. But it was his role as the voice of the adventurous young Jonny Quest in the hit 1964 animated series that first cemented his place in pop culture history.
He continued voicing animated characters like Sinbad Jr. and Jace from Space Ghost, but live-action success wasn’t far behind.
Becoming Otter: An American Comedy Legend
In 1978, Matheson took on the now-iconic role of Eric “Otter” Stratton in National Lampoon’s Animal House, one of the most influential comedies ever made. Suave, witty, and effortlessly charming, Otter became a defining character in Matheson’s career and a cultural touchstone for an entire generation.
His star rose quickly afterward, with roles in Magnum Force, 1941, Fletch, and To Be or Not to Be.
White House to Small Town Doc
In the early 2000s, Matheson pivoted toward prestige TV with great success. His portrayal of Vice President John Hoynes on The West Wing earned him two Emmy nominations and reminded audiences of his serious dramatic chops.
Since 2019, he’s charmed a new generation as Doc Mullins in Virgin River, delivering a nuanced portrayal of a gruff yet deeply human small-town physician navigating love, loss, and the changing world around him. He’s also directed episodes of the series, showcasing his behind-the-camera talents.
Behind the Camera: A Director’s Eye
Matheson isn’t just a prolific actor—he’s also a seasoned director with an impressive résumé. His directing credits include episodes of Criminal Minds, Burn Notice, Suits, Cold Case, The Twilight Zone, The West Wing, and Hart of Dixie (where he also starred as Dr. Brick Breeland). Whether directing action, drama, or comedy, his work is marked by sharp pacing and character-driven focus.
Did You Know?
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He auditioned for Indiana Jones in Raiders of the Lost Ark
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He served in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve
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He was Jonny Quest’s original voice at just 17
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He co-owned the National Lampoon brand briefly in the late ’80s
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He’s portrayed both Ronald Reagan and John F. Kennedy on screen
Personal Life
Matheson has been married three times and has three children. He currently resides in Hollywood with his wife Elizabeth Marighetto, whom he married in 2018. Despite decades in the business, he’s remained humble and deeply involved in all facets of television and film—still acting, still directing, and still drawing fans old and new.
Legacy & Looking Ahead
Whether you remember him as a wisecracking frat boy, a morally complex politician, or a country-town doctor with a soft side, Tim Matheson remains a master of transformation. With Virgin River continuing to thrive, there’s no doubt this Hollywood veteran still has plenty of heart—and screen time—left to give.
From cartoon adventurers to romantic drama, few careers have stretched as far or remained as relevant. Tim Matheson is, simply put, a living legend.
