Judy Greer Recalls Matthew McConaughey's Generosity When She Was Broke

The actress shared a touching story about the 'Dallas Buyers Club' star helping her out on the set of 'The Wedding Planner'.

Apr. 19, 2026 at 12:37am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a crumpled $20 bill reflecting dramatic, high-contrast studio lighting, conceptually representing an act of generosity and financial assistance.A small but meaningful act of financial assistance from one Hollywood star to another underscores the value of compassion in the entertainment industry.Dallas Today

In a recent interview, actress Judy Greer reflected on her role in the 2001 romantic comedy 'The Wedding Planner' and the kindness she experienced from co-star Matthew McConaughey. Greer revealed that when she couldn't afford to retrieve her car from the valet at a table read, McConaughey overheard her conversation and stepped in to cover the cost, saving her from embarrassment.

Why it matters

Greer's story provides a heartwarming example of a Hollywood star using their platform and resources to help a fellow actor in need, highlighting the importance of generosity and compassion in the entertainment industry.

The details

Greer said she 'couldn't believe' she was acting in 'The Wedding Planner' alongside Jennifer Lopez, who was 'Jennifer Lopez back then.' She then recalled a moment on set when she ran into financial trouble, unable to afford the valet fee to retrieve her car. Overhearing her conversation, McConaughey stepped in and gave Greer $20 to cover the cost, an act she described as making him a 'hero' in her eyes.

  • The table read for 'The Wedding Planner' took place before filming began in 2001.

The players

Judy Greer

A 50-year-old actress who played the assistant to Jennifer Lopez's character in the 2001 romantic comedy 'The Wedding Planner'.

Matthew McConaughey

An acclaimed actor known for films like 'Dallas Buyers Club' who co-starred with Greer in 'The Wedding Planner'.

Jennifer Lopez

A global superstar who played the lead role in 'The Wedding Planner'.

Sean Gunn

An actor known for his role in the TV series 'Gilmore Girls', who Greer called for help when she couldn't afford the valet fee.

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What they’re saying

“I couldn't believe I was acting in 'The Wedding Planner'. And Jennifer Lopez was Jennifer Lopez back then. She wasn't JLo.”

— Judy Greer, Actress

“The thing I remember about that movie was how lovely Matthew McConaughey was. I loved seeing him in hair and makeup every morning, cause he had like, pajamas on and an Yerba Mate.”

— Judy Greer, Actress

“I valeted my car. I didn't now any better. I didn't have enough money to get my car out of the valet cause I was so broke.”

— Judy Greer, Actress

“I was so mortified but also though of McConaughey as a hero.”

— Judy Greer, Actress

The takeaway

Greer's story highlights the importance of compassion and generosity in Hollywood, with a successful actor like McConaughey using his platform to help a fellow performer in need, even in a small but meaningful way.