Matthew McConaughey’s 2025 Triumphs: From Disaster Drama to Spiritual Reflections
Austin, Texas, 15 January 2026 – Matthew McConaughey capped off a remarkable 2025 with a powerful performance in the survival drama The Lost Bus and the launch of his introspective book Poems & Prayers, blending Hollywood stardom with personal philosophy.
The Lost Bus: A Gripping True Story
In The Lost Bus, McConaughey portrayed Kevin McKay, a bus driver who heroically navigated a school bus through the deadly 2018 Camp Fire in California, saving 22 children and their teacher. Directed by Paul Greengrass and co-written with Brad Ingelsby, the film drew from Lizzie Johnson’s book Paradise. It premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival on 5 September 2025, received a limited theatrical release on 19 September, and debuted on Apple TV+ on 3 October.
The film earned widespread acclaim, with a Rotten Tomatoes score of 87% and a Metacritic rating of 64. Critics praised McConaughey’s “steeliness” and the film’s authentic tension, though some noted overpowered visual effects. Co-stars included America Ferrera as teacher Mary Ludwig, Yul Vazquez as Cal Fire chief Ray Martinez, and Ashlie Atkinson as school director Ruby Bishop. Notably, McConaughey’s son Levi played his on-screen son Shaun, and his mother Kay portrayed his disabled mother Sherry, adding a family dynamic to the production.
The Rivals of Amziah King: Crime Thriller Debut
McConaughey also starred in the 2025 crime thriller The Rivals of Amziah King, directed by Andrew Patterson. Set in Oklahoma, he played Amziah King, a mentor figure in a story of loss, revenge, and justice. The film premiered at the South by Southwest Film & TV Festival on 10 March 2025 and received positive reviews, scoring 97% on Rotten Tomatoes. The cast featured Angelina LookingGlass, Kurt Russell, and Cole Sprouse.
Poems & Prayers: A Soulful Book and Tour
On 16 September 2025, McConaughey released Poems & Prayers, a collection of personal poetry, reflections, and prayers inspired by his travels, faith, and life experiences. Drawing from proverbs, the Old Testament, and poets like Lord Byron, the book explored themes of belief, loss, and renewal. He embarked on the Poems & Prayers Revival Tour, visiting Brooklyn, Nashville, Tulsa, Los Angeles, and culminating in Austin on 21 September. Each event featured spoken word, music, and special guests like Jon Bon Jovi and John Mayer, aiming to foster hope and connection.
Key Facts
| Project | Release Date |
|---|---|
| The Lost Bus (Film) | 19 September 2025 (Theatrical); 3 October 2025 (Streaming) |
| The Rivals of Amziah King (Film) | March 2025 (Festival); Theatrical TBA |
| Poems & Prayers (Book) | 16 September 2025 |
| Poems & Prayers Revival Tour | 16–21 September 2025 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Lost Bus based on a true story?
Yes, it is inspired by the real-life events of the 2018 Camp Fire, where bus driver Kevin McKay saved students from the wildfire.
What is McConaughey’s next project?
He is set to star in an untitled Netflix adaptation of Mickey Spillane’s Mike Hammer series, and a comedy series Brother From Another Mother with Woody Harrelson.
Has McConaughey expressed political ambitions?
In July 2024, he spoke at the National Governors Association meeting, indicating he was on a “learning tour” and open to running for office, though he remains vague on specifics.