Damn Glad to Meet You: My Seven Decades in the Hollywood Trenches

by Tim Matheson

A “damn good” fun and revealing memoir from the acclaimed Hollywood actor, Tim Matheson  

For the past seven decades, Tim Matheson has been an on-screen favorite in Hollywood. In his debut memoir, Tim takes fans behind-the-scenes of his illustrious career, and reveals what it was like to learn from and work alongside the greats, including Lucille Ball, Dick Van Dyke, Steven Spielberg, and Aaron Sorkin. Tim also talks about how he transitioned from acting to directing, the role in The West Wing that nabbed him two Emmy nominations–and so much more.

Filled to the brim with both riveting stories of the ever-changing entertainment industry and illuminating insight via “film school boot camp” sidebars, readers everywhere are going to be “damn glad” they read this fascinating memoir.

Genres: Nonfiction, Memoir, Biography, Audiobook, Humor, Biography Memoir, Autobiography

384 pages, Hardcover

Published November 12, 2024

Reviews

[Richard Propes · Rating 5 out of 5]

With an appealing combination of simple honesty and slight irreverence, longtime actor Tim Matheson's "Damn Glad to Meet You: My Seven Decades in the Hollywood Trenches" is the celebrity autobiography you didn't quite realize you needed in 2024.

Matheson, perhaps destined to always be best known for his role as Otter in comedy classic "Animal House," hasn't necessarily crafted the "best" autobiography of the year (whatever that means). Instead, it's simply a truly engaging and fun to read autobiography that's refreshingly honest and devoid of the usual self-glorification one typically finds when a Hollywood figure waxes eloquently about their own life.

The now 76-year-old Matheson had already been acting for over 15 years when "Animal House" made him a household name, though his mid-60s work as the voice of Jonny Quest on television had given strong indication he'd likely have a lengthy Hollywood career. It wouldn't be until his portrayal of Vice President John Hoynes on television's "The West Wing" that Matheson would come close to matching the fame of his "Animal House" days. "The West Wing" would also grant him the long desired critical acclaim with two Emmy Award nominations for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series in a role that was considered regular but never quite part of the actual ensemble for the series.

With "Damn Glad to Meet You," a reference to one of Matheson's most memorable "Animal House" lines, Matheson captures that sense of what it is like to have been a steady working actor in seven decades while also being considered sort of a "that guy" in Hollywood. Even at 76, Matheson is instantly recognizable and you can't help but smile when you see him.

"Damn Glad to Meet You" reminds me most of Henry Winkler's autobiography from 2023, though Matheson is perhaps a little more willing to name names and acknowledge truths whether talking about the abundant cocaine usage in Hollywood during the 70s and 80s or his string of failed flicks that threatened to derail his career in that same late 70s and early 80s.

For the most part, "Damn Glad to Meet You" is an affectionate book, Matheson's winning charm radiating throughout the pages even when he's talking about personality conflicts and films that didn't quite work. Matheson takes us through the "should've been a hit" films like Spielberg's "1941," Mel Brooks's "To Be or Not To Be," and his brief period as owner of National Lampoon from 1989-1991.

Matheson has, indeed, always been a part of the Hollywood trenches as a regularly working actor who has still had to be conscious of "needing to work." More a memoir centered on his Hollywood experience, "Damn Glad to Meet You" still takes us briefly through Matheson's childhood, his military experience, and his three marriages including current wife Elizabeth Marighetto whom he married in 2018.

"Damn Glad to Meet You" is more likely a 4-star experience if I were reviewing solely through the critical lens, however, I can't deny that I genuinely enjoyed this reading experience from beginning to end and immersed myself in Matheson's refreshing candor that possesses both wit and bite in equal amounts. So, in the end, "Damn Glad to Meet You" is the autobiography I didn't know I needed and I'm damn glad to have gotten to know Tim Matheson an awful lot more.

[Cindy Rollins · Rating 4 out of 5]

Four stars for being easy to listen to and interesting.
I love these biographies that take me back to my own childhood like an episode of Mad Men. My own first recollection of Tim is from The Apple Dumpling Gang Rides Again but as I read the book I realized I had seen him before that in so many old shows from my childhood. He is a genuinely pleasant guy.

I suspect at times he has a bit of a chip on his shoulders. He also pulls back the curtain on a lot of depraved Hollywood behavior that is just sad.

If you grew up in the 60s, 70s, or 80s I suspect you will enjoy the nostalgia in this book.

[Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5. I don’t listen to many audiobooks but I find that memoirs can work well in this medium — especially when engagingly read/performed by the author. Tim Matheson has had a long and varied career in Hollywood and beyond, with many ups and downs, never quite becoming the star he might have been. In this entertaining and informative memoir, he seems quite self-aware as he details the lessons he learned from mistakes made in both his professional and personal life. He also explains a great deal about how the industry works (or doesn’t) and how he adapted and “reinvented himself” several times to stay in it. Actors who’ve worked under his direction (I had no idea how many TV series episodes and movies he has directed) say he is truly nice individual. He comes across that way in the book. 1/2 star deducted for being overly long and a little too cutesy at times.

PS - Among Tim’s first screen appearances were two episodes of Leave It to Beaver which I found on a free streaming service. Fun!

[Marika · Rating 5 out of 5]

Actor/Director Tim Matheson writes about his time in Hollywood and how he manages to keep his perspective on life and fame. Very well written, with no salacious tidbits about fellow actors, but a memoir that is as humble as the author is.

* I read an advance copy and was not compensated

[Joe L · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I first heard of this book in late 2024, I couldn’t wait to get my hands on it. As a kid in the 80s I had watched fletch many times. It would be many years before Id see him in his most famous role in animal house.
We all know so many celebrity memoirs that are nothing more than bragging and one’s ego getting the best of them.
However, this well written book had me grinning and even laughing in many places.
Tim does speak a little too much about his dating life and prowess, but it never gets too sleazy. Everyone he encounters is treated with respect and all others names are omitted. A Juicy tell all book this is not.
Well done Tim, you’ve earned my five stars.

[Heather Woodward · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advanced copy of this book through a Good Reads giveaway for my honest review.
This book is full of unique and funny stories of Tim Matheson and many of his famous costars and friends. I enjoyed reading the advice shared by these actors as they encouraged Tim throughout his career. He paid his dues and took chances. This book is a true testament of a working actor/director.

[Jake Blythe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Admiration for author

Enjoyed reading about the life and career of Tim Matheson; his ability to handle success and failure throughout his life is admirable. Glad he is happy with his wife Elizabeth!

[Karen · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

This was an average memoir. Stories of Hollywood, movies, etc. Worth reading.

[Dawn Michelle]

Read 1.8 - 1.11.2025
NetGalley ARC/2024
DNF @30%
NLO

I was really excited about this book, as I have enjoyed several of the author's shows/movies that he has been in [and was surprised to see how many he had been in that I wasn't aware of]. Unfortunately, this book pushed all of the wrong buttons for me and I had to stop reading before I whipped my kindle across my room.

While I understand that arrogance and ego are part of the whole actor experience [some more than others it would seem], this guy definitely has it in abundance. It would seem [according to him] that there is no part he cannot play, there were roles that [again, according to him] only HE could play, and and and. I will say, even before the part that made me stop reading appeared, I was getting a bad feeling about him and was already dreading having to finish the book. Then he got to the part where he [essentially] bragged about how he cannot keep it in his pants and went into a detailed account of an affair he had with David Soul's wife, right under Mr. Soul's nose, and how hilarious he found it all. For me, infidelity is not a funny matter [I have a parent who wouldn't know monogamy if it danced naked in front of them wearing Dobby's tea cozy and infidelity affects everyone, and never in a good way. E V E R. To joke about it screams ICK to me and he should be ashamed] it is sickening, and it really was the last straw. Add in all the smack he talked about people [WHO deeply insults AND then compliments someone as fantastic as Clint Eastwood? Apparently this guy. *eye roll*], how many mistakes he made, all while deflecting the fault to someone else, and the constant "guy banter" and well, some people might find this kind of book enjoyable, but I am not one of them.

I am very disappointed.

Thank you to NetGalley and Hachette Books for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Lori · Rating 4 out of 5]

Listened to Matheson tell the story of his long tenure in Hollywood. It's fascinating to hear stories of him working in the 50s-70's with such greats as Lucille Ball, Jackie Gleason, Clint Eastwood, John Belushi and Kurt Russell. He gives great insight into acting and directing and looks back with honesty and humor to make for a fun listen.

[Cindy Feigert · Rating 4 out of 5]

So Tim Matheson has always been one of my favorite TV actors. I think it was when he was On the Virginian when my crush started. This memoir was an honest look at his career through the years. He is honest about his missteps in his personal and professional life. I found the behind the scenes stories the most interesting. See you in Virgin River Tim!

[Janice · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a very interesting read, actually a cautionary tale, for anyone interested in joining the Hollywood industry. Tim smoothly mixed his story with how things work in the movie/TV business. I was mostly interested in his personal stories and really didn’t care about the nuts and bolts of betrayals. It was a fast and very readable story from a man I think a lot of women (including me) had crushes on since he was a kid!

[Barry Hammond · Rating 4 out of 5]

From his starting point as the third kid through the door in the 1950's TV classic Leave It To Beaver, to roles in such classic films as Animal House and Magnum Force, Tim Matheson has done it all: stage, television, film and in the capacity of actor, director, and producer for over 50 years. His span of stories covers all aspects of show business with understanding and humour. A unique look at a career that spans a huge chunk of time. Great read! - BH.

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved listening to Tim read this. I loved hearing all his stories about his life and time in Hollywood. My only slight complaint is that I wish he had talked more about his time on Hart of Dixie.

[Charlotte Daniel · Rating 3 out of 5]

It took me a while to gather my thoughts on this book. I enjoyed it, and it even had a few surprises. When he showed up on Virgin River, I was happy to see him. It was like seeing an old friend that you haven't seen much in decades. He's very charming and brings an ease to all his roles regardless of the size of the role, show or movie. All that being said..there will always be a place for a guy like him oozing charm and good looks!

[Daniel Kukwa · Rating 4 out of 5]

A crisp, breezy memoir where the subject doesn't take himself too seriously. I was quite surprised at how varied Tim Matheson's career has been over the decades...and after reading this, I'm even more appreciative of his contributions to film and television.

[Paula · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fascinating, funny, and self-effacing memoir from a Hollywood insider. Beginning with his days as a childhood TV actor up through his seventh decade doing backstage creative work as producer and director in movies and TV, Tim Matheson is always striving to learn, grow and do better the next time. Not just a pretty face, Matheson shares intimate stories about many famous and not-so-famous people and productions with honesty, humor and often touching insight. I listened to the audio book which I highly recommend. He has a voice you’ll recognize and an obvious zest for sharing his memorable story and a bittersweet pang readers will share for the Hollywood of the 50s, 60s and 70s.

[KevinS · Rating 4 out of 5]

Full of stories about the actors on the TV shows and movies I watched growing up. Plus the inside scoop on Animal House antics. Plus a goodly amount of self-analysis and growth. Nicely entertaining.

[Bryce Denny · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoy reading autobiographical books by actors and musicians that I like. I see where some reviews criticize Tim for only "telling part of his story" or omitting information about a particular project. I do not have this grievance. As I read through the book, I envisioned being on an airplane seated next to Mr. Matheson and having a conversation with him. "Tim I'd love to hear some of your stories about your life, and please throw in a little advice while you are at it."

This book does not cover every aspect of Tim's life. It does not need to do so. It is an good read as it is.

I only hope that I am lucky enough to have the author sit next to me on a future flight where I can ask him to "please tell me some of the stories that are not in the book."

Note: I did not get a review copy. I bought the book.

[Steve Peifer · Rating 3 out of 5]

I needed a light book after reading about Mitch McConnell, the most depressing human on the planet. My guess is if you are like me, you loved Animal House and West Wing and that is what inspired you to read this. The good news is that those chapters do not disappoint; they are insightful, funny and poignant.

It’s the rest of the book that is a let down. He tends to be so effusive that you conclude he is another Hollywood phony. Then he writes about his move into directing and how he learned how to do it well, and it’s pretty absorbing.

But whenever he talks about his personal life, you wonder if this guy is 12 years old. His personal life can be gross, and he does not only not cares who knows, he brags about it.

I’m still glad I read it. Just set expectations and you will have a good time with this book.

[Rhonda · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a fun book, and a quick read of anecdotes of the many acting and directing years of one of my favorite actors, Tim Mathison. I’ve been smitten with him since he was the voice of Jonny Quest, before he was the adorable young man in ‘Yours, Mine and Ours’ playing Henry Fonda’s teenaged son, through the years of Animal House, Burn Notice, and on and on, including Virgin River , which he stars in now. There’s interesting stories about how he learned, and grew, betrayals, life long friendships, and heartbreaks, his love for his family, hard times, mistakes, and good times.

[Beverly · Rating 4 out of 5]

An entertaining autobiography read by the author himself. Baby Boomers like me may remember Matheson as the voice of Jonny Quest, the co-star of Bonanza or The Virginian in the 70s, or one of his most iconic roles, Eric “Otter” Stratton in Animal House. Now he is well known to a cross section of generations as the gruff but lovable Doc Mullins in the hit Netflix series, Virgin River. In between those events Matheson had dozens of roles in films and TV shows but never great notoriety and finally found his stride in directing. The ups and downs of an actor’s career are chronicled in detail, maybe too much detail because at 17 hours long I lost interest about 3/4 of the way through. Nevertheless I stuck with it, much as Matheson has and I’m glad he has new found success late in life. (And I admit to having had a big crush on him in my teens.)

[Bob · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’d go 3 1/2 stars if Goodreads let me. Pleasant read by a pleasant enough actor. Matheson doesn’t seem to get how slightly milquetoast he is, but that’s really his charm. He kind of speaks for all of us that are doing ok, but wish we’d accomplished a bit more.

[Kay Brown · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed this memoir and a glimpse into the inter-workings of Hollywood.

[Lois Wims · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not entirely chronological actor/director memoir. I appreciated his honesty throughout about his own excesses and understood some of his choices for the writing (very very little about his wives and children) when reading the afterword. Have enjoyed his work all my life, and admit that the almost-never-mentioned The Quest was an embarrassment of riches actor wise for teenage me. I was never an Animal House fan, so the fact that it was life changing was lost on me until I read this. Love his work in West Wing and Virgin River and didn't know how much directing he has done. Accompanied me on a train ride from DC to Providence and I was thoroughly absorbed. Now then, about "that" birthday....

[William A Howes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great stories from Otter

Not just great stories, but acting tips, a good look at Animal House (my step brother was an extra), and what must have been a painful time recounting of a troubled childhood and his quest for a fulfilling life and career. With photos.

[Alexa | alexahasread]

This is an engaging and candid memoir. Tim shares the journey of his life and Hollywood career, from his early days all the way up to his current role as Doc on Virgin River. It was interesting to get his insight and reflection!

🗣 Thank you to Hachette Books for the opportunity to read and review this book via gifted copy! All opinions are honest and my own.

[Deanna Stevens · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed reading Tim Matheson's book. It was great reading anecdotes about different portions of his career. As well as the legends he worked with and learned from. I especially liked his boot camp notes for actors, directors. Having read many other memoirs it is refreshing to finish Tim's and still like the person he is!

Thank you to Tim Matheson, Hachette Books and NetGalley for the advanced reader copy. My review is voluntary and all opinions expressed are my own.

[Lindsey · Rating 4 out of 5]

As someone who grew up loving animal house so much, I devoured this memoir. Tim Matheson has worked with everyone in Hollywood from Lucille ball and Chris Farley to Denzel Washington and Rob Lowe and his stories about them are honest and great. If you’re a fan of behind-the-scenes Hollywood stories, you’ll love this one.

[Gerri · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was interesting learning a bit more about Tim Matheson whom I have been a fan of most of my life. I was actually watching him before I even knew who he was, which explains why he’s always looked familiar to me. Who knew he was on all those Leave it to Beaver episodes that I loved? Mr. Matheson has been in a number of well known shows and movies from the time he was a young man, including Animal House and on through West Wing, Heart of Dixie, and Virgin River. Most of my favorites were ones that might not be as well known to younger readers like Quest with Kurt Russell and Yours, Mine and Ours with Lucille Ball and Henry Fonda. There was always something very likeable about Tim Matheson and the book is told from his perspective. I couldn’t put it down. There’s no shortage of stories about his personal life and career. Also his experiences in working with other actors on these shows. If you’re a fan you’ll love this and if you’re a fan of some of the shows or movies and not that familiar with him, it will still be an enjoyable and interesting read. It’s written in a conversational style and quite a fast read. Thanks to Net Galley and Hachette Publishers for the opportunity to read it.
#netgalley, #hachette