As Netflix’s acclaimed animated series Big Mouth draws to a close with its eighth and final season, fans are reflecting on the show’s bold storytelling and memorable characters. One standout character is Matthew MacDell, the openly gay middle schooler known for his sharp wit and unapologetic confidence. Portrayed by Broadway star Andrew Rannells, Matthew’s voice has captivated audiences since Season 1. In a recent revelation, Rannells shared that his portrayal of Matthew was inspired by none other than Samantha Jones from HBO’s Sex and the City.
@gayety Andrew Rannells claims that his inspiration for his gay character in ‘Big Mouth’ is based off of Kim Cattrall from ‘Sex and The City.’
A Bold Inspiration
In a candid conversation with Big Mouth co-creator Nick Kroll, Rannells disclosed that when he was first approached to voice Matthew, he envisioned the character as a “gay bully.” Drawing from this concept, Rannells decided to channel the essence of Samantha Jones, famously portrayed by Kim Cattrall, known for her boldness and unapologetic sexuality. Rannells admitted, “I came in with this idea that I was just going to do an impersonation of Kim Cattrall and no one said anything. And then it was eight seasons later.”
Kroll, who voices several characters on the show, including Nick Birch and Coach Steve, expressed surprise upon learning of Rannells’ inspiration. He remarked, “I only found out last year what your inspiration was for the voice of Matthew.”
Matthew’s Evolution on Screen
Since his debut, Matthew has evolved from a secondary character to a fan favorite. His journey has mirrored the show’s broader themes of self-discovery and acceptance. In earlier seasons, Matthew navigated the complexities of adolescence, including coming out to his friends and grappling with his identity. His character provided a refreshing portrayal of a gay teenager who was neither a tragic figure nor a stereotypical flamboyant character, but rather a nuanced individual with depth and authenticity.
Rannells’ portrayal of Matthew has been lauded for its sincerity and comedic timing. His voice work brought a unique energy to the character, blending sharp humor with moments of vulnerability. This balance resonated with viewers, particularly those seeking representation of LGBTQ+ characters that felt genuine and multifaceted.
The Impact of ‘Big Mouth’
Big Mouth has been praised for its candid exploration of puberty, sexuality, and identity. The series, co-created by Nick Kroll, Andrew Goldberg, Mark Levin, and Jennifer Flackett, has tackled topics such as hormone-driven emotions, body image, and the complexities of sexual orientation. By incorporating characters like Matthew, the show has provided a platform for diverse voices and experiences, contributing to broader conversations about representation in media.
The show’s success is evident in its critical acclaim and longevity. Over its eight-season run, Big Mouth garnered multiple Emmy nominations and wins, solidifying its place in the pantheon of animated series that push boundaries and challenge societal norms. The series also spawned a spin-off, Human Resources, which delved deeper into the anthropomorphized emotions introduced in Big Mouth.
