Francis Joseph Matthews was born in York to Kathleen, nee Empson, and Henry Ernest Matthews, and began his educational journey at St George's School in York, followed by St Michael's Jesuit College in Leeds. Prior to embarking on his professional path, Matthews gained valuable experience at Leeds Repertory Theatre. His subsequent National Service in the Royal Navy played a significant role in shaping his future endeavors.
Upon completing his service, Matthews continued to hone his craft at various repertory theatres, including a two-year stint at the esteemed Oxford Playhouse. In 1962, he ventured to the Hebrides to film the BBC's six-part series "Shark Island," an experience that would ultimately lead to a serendipitous encounter with actress Angela Browne. Matthews was picked up from the airport by Browne, whom he would go on to marry the following year, and together they would welcome three sons: Paul, Dominic, and Damien.
Francis Matthews' remarkable voice, reminiscent of Cary Grant, caught the attention of Gerry Anderson, who was in the process of developing a television puppet series. Anderson was impressed by Matthews' transatlantic tone and subsequently invited him to provide the voice of Captain Scarlett in the upcoming production.
