Though they cannot be called father and daughter in biological terms, from the moment Matthew Cuthbert met Anne Shirley at Bright River Station there was an immediate bond between the two, which turned into the strongest familial love.

There is something very moving about Richard Farnsworth’s portrayal of Matthew – the shy brother of Marilla's.  He did not want for very much and was content living a simple life.  Both Anne and Marilla knew that although Matthew didn’t speak very often, when he chose to voice his opinion it was important that they listen.  Whatever he had to say was enlightening.  He was the one who brought the two headstrong women together.

Colleen Dewhurst, the famous Broadway actress who played Marilla, recalls in her autobiography what it was that made Matthew so instantly loved by viewers.

“I was amazed by the talent of each and every one of the players in Anne,” she writes.  “They came prepared, but above all, each one seemed to have that extra little spark that distinguishes actors one from another.  Anyone who has seen Anne of Green Gables knows that after Richard Farnsworth, no actor could ever again be acceptable as Matthew.  From the moment the camera touches Mr. Farnsworth’s face you know everything about him and you love him.”

His final moments with Anne encapsulate everything there is to know about the character.  Matthew's fatherly love was the most subtle and selfless – making it also the most powerful.

If you’re interested in finding out a little more about Richard Farnsworth and how he viewed the character of Matthew, click here.

Source:  Colleen Dewhurst: Her Autobiography