He began performing musicals and plays at local theaters while in high school. Following graduation from high school, Newton studied at the Eugene O’Neill Theater Center and Vassar College, from which he graduated with a B.A. in Drama. Newton moved to New York City in 1999 and landed roles in various television series, including that of Alan, the blind football player, in the Comedy Central hit Strangers With Candy, and guest appearances on Judging Amy and Gilmore Girls. His first film role was opposite Jeremy Renner and Bruce Davison in the critically acclaimed independent film Dahmer (2002), which was nominated for three Independent Spirit Awards.

In 2010 Matt started his own acting studio (MN Acting Studio) in NYC, and became a sought after acting coach. His coaching credits include Jessica Jones, Orange is the New Black, Blue Bloods, The Affair, Master of None, and Ava Duvernay’s When They See Us on Netflix.

In 2016 Matt turned to directing, and wrote and produced several short films, including Hide/Seek, Vacation Rental (winner Best Director), Pretty People Inc, and Sins of the Son.

In 2020 Matt published the book “The No B.S. Guide to the Acting Biz,” which was ranked by Forbes as “Top 5 Books to Read in an Uncertain Market.”