Matt Damon has shared that his wife, Luciana Barroso, suffered a brain aneurysm in 2024 and underwent surgery just a week before attending the Oscars afterparties. Damon, 55, described his wife's actions as "pretty heroic" and "really meaningful" during an interview with GQ.
He recalled that while he typically avoids missing Oscar ceremonies, a "scary thing" occurred with Barroso's health. Despite the recent surgery, Barroso surprised Damon by feeling well enough to go out, recalling a similar instance when he missed celebrations for his 2006 film "The Departed." "This time we’re going out," she reportedly told him.
Barroso, 50, is now reportedly doing well following the surgery. The couple has been married for nearly 21 years and has four daughters: Alexia, Isabella, Gia, and Stella.
Damon also spoke about his own career, noting that his blockbuster "The Odyssey" is anticipated to receive award nominations. He mentioned breaking a "two-week rule" for filming, being away for over three weeks for Christopher Nolan's epic. He also discussed his admiration for friend Ben Affleck's approach to balancing work and family, particularly Affleck's decision to take a CEO role at their production company, Artists Equity, to remain based in Los Angeles.
Following a demanding period of work, Damon expressed his intention to take an extended break, though he couldn't pass up the opportunity to work with directors Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert on their upcoming film. He also emphasized his desire to continue collaborating with Affleck, fulfilling a long-held dream.