Matt Heath Biography: Wife, Height, Books, Movies, Net Worth, Awards, Deja Voodoo, Songs

Leslie Matthew Heath, widely known as Matt Heath, is a versatile New Zealand media personality, actor, producer, radio host, sports commentator, columnist, musician, and author.

He first rose to fame through the anarchic comedy series Back of the Y Masterpiece Television, where he created and starred as characters like Danny Parker, blending stunts, parody, and absurdity.

Heath co-founded the rock band Deja Voodoo, contributing as guitarist and singer on hits like “P,” and has built a long career in broadcasting, including co-hosting The Matt & Jerry Show on Radio Hauraki and ZM.

Profile

• Full Name: Leslie Matthew Heath
• Stage Name: Matt Heath
• Born: 20 April 1972
• Age: 53 years old
• Birthplace: Oxford, United Kingdom
• Nationality: New Zealander
• Occupation: Actor, Film Producer, Radio Host, Sports Commentator, Columnist, Musician, Author
• Height: Unknown
• Parents: Christopher Heath and Mrs. Heath
• Siblings: 3
• Spouse: None
• Partner: Lani Purkis (ex)
• Children: Charlie Heath and Barry Heath
• Relationship: Single
• Net Worth: $2 million

Early Life and Education

Leslie Matthew Heath was born on 20 April 1972 in Oxford, United Kingdom. He moved to New Zealand as a child. His father, Christopher Heath, worked in medicine as a doctor, while his mother taught languages at secondary school level.

Heath grew up as the only boy among three sisters, though their names are not publicly known.

He attended Otago University, where he studied and began collaborating on stunt and parody videos with Chris Stapp, laying the foundation for his entertainment career. His ethnicity is British-New Zealand, and his religion remains unknown.

Career

Matt Heath kicked off his professional path at Otago University, teaming up with Chris Stapp to film wild stunts mixed with comedy sketches that gained a cult following.

This led to the creation of Back of the Y Masterpiece Television, a low-budget TV series that aired on TV2 and became a New Zealand comedy staple in the early 2000s for its outrageous parodies and daredevil antics.

Heath portrayed memorable characters like the hapless stuntman Randy Cambell and Danny Parker, earning recognition for his fearless creativity and sharp humor.

He also formed the rock band Deja Voodoo in 2002 with Stapp and others, serving as guitarist and vocalist; their 2005 album Brown Sabbath featured the controversial hit “P,” which sparked national debate but boosted their profile in the music scene.

Heath expanded into film production with The Devil Dared Me To (2007), a feature that continued the stunt-comedy style from Back of the Y and solidified his role behind the camera.

He transitioned into mainstream media by joining radio, first on various shows before landing the popular Matt & Jerry Show on Radio Hauraki, where his witty commentary and sports insights drew large audiences.

Heath added columnist work for the NZ Herald, penning pieces on life, culture, and current events, and he co-runs Vinewood Animation Studios for motion graphics projects.

Matt Heath remains active across radio, writing, and creative production. He released his self-help book A Life Less Punishing in 2024, sharing practical ways to embrace life amid challenges, informed by his own journey through mental health struggles.

His podcasting, live hosting, and ongoing media presence keep him connected with fans. Heath’s legacy lies in pioneering irreverent Kiwi comedy, influencing generations through stunts, music, and honest storytelling that mixes humor with real-life reflection.

Social Media

• Instagram Handle: @mattheathnz
• Facebook Handle: Unknown
• Twitter Handle: @MattHeathNZ

Personal Life

Matt Heath shares two sons, Charlie Heath and Barry Heath, with musician Lani Purkis, though the couple separated around 2018 after being together for years.

He keeps much of his family life out of the spotlight but has openly discussed fatherhood and personal growth on his radio show and in interviews.

He leads a grounded lifestyle in Auckland, balancing work with family time and creative pursuits like music and writing.

Net Worth

Matt Heath has an estimated net worth of around $2 million. His primary sources of income stem from long-running radio hosting roles, film and TV production credits, music with Deja Voodoo, column writing for major outlets, animation studio work through Vinewood, speaking engagements, and book sales from his 2024 release.