Behind every remarkable artist often stands someone equally inspiring. For Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Ben Harper, that person is his wife, Jaclyn Matfus. While many know Harper for his soulful blend of blues, rock, and folk music, fewer are familiar with the woman who has brought balance, compassion, and purpose to his personal life. Jaclyn Matfus is more than just a celebrity spouse—she is an actress, producer, and humanitarian known for her powerful commitment to social causes and her quiet strength behind the scenes.
This article dives deep into Jaclyn Matfus’s life, career, humanitarian initiatives, and her relationship with Ben Harper, offering a full picture of the woman who has become a symbol of empathy, creativity, and resilience.
Quick Information Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jaclyn Matfus |
| Date of Birth | May 27, 1984 |
| Age (as of 2025) | 41 years |
| Birthplace | New York City, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Actress, Producer, Humanitarian |
| Known For | Marriage to Ben Harper, Humanitarian Work in Africa |
| Spouse | Ben Harper (married in 2015) |
| Children | One son (name undisclosed) |
| Net Worth (Estimated) | $1.5 million (approx.) |
| Active Years | 2009–present |
| Focus Keyword | Jaclyn Matfus |
| Associated Topic | Ben Harper |
1. Early Life and Background of Jaclyn Matfus
Born on May 27, 1984, in New York City, Jaclyn Matfus grew up in a creative and multicultural environment that nurtured her artistic and humanitarian spirit. From a young age, she displayed a natural curiosity about different cultures, social issues, and global welfare. Her early education focused on performing arts and sociology, a combination that later helped her bridge storytelling with advocacy.
Unlike many celebrity spouses who remain in the shadows, Matfus built her identity before meeting Ben Harper. Her upbringing instilled in her the values of empathy, volunteerism, and creative expression—traits that would later shape her career and humanitarian pursuits.
2. Jaclyn Matfus’s Journey into Acting and Entertainment
Jaclyn’s professional career began in the late 2000s, when she entered the film industry as an actress and producer. One of her earliest appearances came in the short film 10ten (2010), where she demonstrated a raw and emotional acting style. Though her acting portfolio remains selective, she has participated in independent film projects that align with meaningful narratives rather than mainstream fame.
Her approach to entertainment has always been purpose-driven. She prefers storytelling that raises awareness about human issues or promotes emotional authenticity, making her an advocate for socially conscious filmmaking.
3. Meeting Ben Harper: A Story of Purpose and Connection
The love story between Jaclyn Matfus and Ben Harper is both heartfelt and unconventional. They first met during a charitable event connected to humanitarian work—a reflection of their shared interest in social betterment. Harper, already an established musician, was drawn to her compassion and grounded personality.
Their bond deepened through shared values rather than celebrity culture. They officially tied the knot in January 2015 in a private ceremony attended by close friends and family. Since then, their relationship has become an example of how love, respect, and purpose can intertwine seamlessly in the public eye.
4. Ben Harper: The Man Beside Jaclyn Matfus

Ben Harper is an acclaimed American musician known for his soulful voice, poetic lyrics, and unique blend of genres—from blues and reggae to rock and folk. Over the years, he has won multiple Grammy Awards, earning respect for both his artistry and activism.
His marriage to Jaclyn Matfus introduced a calmer, more introspective phase in his life. While Harper had been married twice before, those close to the couple describe his relationship with Matfus as deeply spiritual and emotionally balanced. Together, they represent a partnership rooted in creativity, empathy, and shared purpose.
5. Humanitarian Work: Jaclyn’s True Calling
Beyond Hollywood and celebrity life, Jaclyn Matfus’s true passion lies in humanitarian work. She has traveled extensively, particularly across Africa, to engage in advocacy and community empowerment projects.
Her most notable involvement has been in raising awareness about child trafficking and women’s rights. She has collaborated with several international NGOs and campaigns focused on education, health, and sustainable development. In interviews, she has emphasized that her goal is not to “save” communities but to amplify local voices and contribute meaningfully to existing efforts.
6. Advocacy Through Film and Storytelling
Jaclyn believes that storytelling can drive real change. Her background in acting and production allows her to merge artistic creativity with social awareness. She has supported and co-produced several short documentaries highlighting global poverty, environmental issues, and gender inequality.
Her work often remains behind the scenes, but industry insiders acknowledge her growing influence in purpose-driven media. Through both her creative projects and field involvement, Matfus has become an example of how art and activism can coexist harmoniously.
7. Life as a Private Yet Supportive Partner
Despite being married to a world-famous musician, Jaclyn maintains a low public profile. She rarely appears on red carpets or social media, choosing instead to focus on her family and social initiatives.
Those who know her describe her as calm, compassionate, and grounded—a steadying force in Harper’s often hectic life. Her ability to balance personal privacy with public awareness work makes her stand out in a world where many crave attention.
8. Parenthood and Family Life
In 2017, Jaclyn Matfus and Ben Harper welcomed their first child, a son whose name they’ve kept private. This decision reflects their mutual commitment to protecting their child’s privacy from public exposure.
Jaclyn’s approach to motherhood aligns with her philosophy of mindfulness and compassion. She often mentions that parenthood has strengthened her sense of purpose, inspiring her to work harder for a world where children have equal opportunities and safety.
9. Collaboration with Ben Harper on Social Causes

The couple frequently supports each other’s artistic and philanthropic pursuits. Ben Harper has performed at charity events championed by Jaclyn, while she often helps coordinate humanitarian projects linked to his foundation efforts.
Their collaboration demonstrates that activism and artistry can reinforce one another. Whether through music, film, or advocacy, they both aim to inspire change and promote empathy worldwide.
10. Jaclyn Matfus’s Personality and Values
At her core, Jaclyn Matfus is driven by a blend of curiosity, empathy, and authenticity. Friends describe her as someone who listens more than she speaks, yet leaves a lasting impression through her thoughtfulness.
Her life philosophy centers on sustainable compassion—helping others in a way that respects their independence and dignity. These qualities have earned her admiration not only from fans of Ben Harper but also from humanitarian circles.
11. Challenges and Growth
Being part of the entertainment industry while maintaining one’s integrity can be challenging. For Jaclyn, navigating fame while preserving her privacy has been a lifelong balancing act. However, her quiet perseverance and authenticity have helped her carve out a distinct identity that doesn’t rely solely on her husband’s fame.
Her experiences also highlight the evolving role of women in modern celebrity culture, where independence and substance are valued over glamour and visibility.
12. Newly Discovered Insights: Jaclyn’s Recent Projects
Recent reports suggest that Jaclyn Matfus is working on a documentary project focusing on sustainable education models in underprivileged regions. While details remain limited, sources close to the production indicate that the project aims to spotlight grassroots change-makers in Africa and South America.
She has also been seen collaborating with women-led production houses to bring authentic humanitarian stories to global audiences—a continuation of her mission to merge film with purpose.
13. Influence and Legacy
Though she may not dominate entertainment headlines, Jaclyn Matfus’s influence is felt through her consistent efforts in humanitarian causes, her artistry, and her dedication to living meaningfully. Her partnership with Ben Harper has only strengthened her platform to reach more people and inspire compassion-driven work worldwide.
She embodies the idea that impact does not require fame—it requires authenticity, intention, and courage.
Final Thoughts
Jaclyn Matfus represents a refreshing blend of creativity, compassion, and quiet strength. Her life alongside Ben Harper showcases how love and purpose can coexist beautifully when grounded in shared values. From acting to advocacy, her journey continues to inspire individuals who believe in using art and empathy as instruments of change.
In an age dominated by social media visibility, Jaclyn reminds us that true influence lies not in being seen but in making a difference where it matters most. Her story is one of authenticity, service, and lasting purpose—a narrative that continues to unfold with every act of kindness she undertakes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who is Jaclyn Matfus?
Jaclyn Matfus is an American actress, producer, and humanitarian best known as the wife of musician Ben Harper. She is recognized for her work in humanitarian advocacy, especially in Africa.
2. When did Jaclyn Matfus marry Ben Harper?
Jaclyn Matfus married Ben Harper in January 2015 in a private ceremony attended by close family and friends.
3. Does Jaclyn Matfus have children?
Yes, Jaclyn and Ben Harper share one son, born in 2017. They have chosen to keep his name private to protect his identity.
4. What does Jaclyn Matfus do for a living?
Jaclyn works as an actress, producer, and humanitarian activist, focusing on social causes, women’s rights, and child welfare.
5. What are Jaclyn Matfus’s humanitarian interests?
She is deeply involved in anti-trafficking campaigns, education projects, and community development initiatives across Africa and developing regions.
6. How did Jaclyn Matfus and Ben Harper meet?
They met through a humanitarian event, bonding over shared values of service, compassion, and creativity.
7. Is Jaclyn Matfus active on social media?
No, Jaclyn maintains a low-profile lifestyle and is rarely active on social media, preferring to focus on her family and activism.
8. What is Jaclyn Matfus currently working on?
As of recent updates, she is developing a documentary project highlighting grassroots efforts in education and sustainability across the developing world.
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