Jaclyn Matfus is a figure who often attracts curiosity yet maintains a quiet, private presence away from the limelight. Known for her supporting appearance connected to the Hollywood film 17 Again (2009) and for her creative involvement in entertainment and social initiatives, Matfus is also widely recognized as the wife of acclaimed American singer-songwriter Ben Harper. Despite her proximity to celebrity culture, she has managed to keep her personal life grounded and refreshingly understated. This balance between visibility and privacy makes her an intriguing personality whose story intertwines artistry, philanthropy, and family life.
In this in-depth profile, we explore everything readers often want to know about her — Who is Jaclyn Matfus?, her work, her family, her marriage to Ben Harper, details about her children, her age and background, and the public interest around topics like “Jaclyn Matfus baby,” “Jaclyn Matfus son,” and more. Whether you are researching for entertainment purposes or simply curious about the woman behind the headlines, this article provides a comprehensive look at her life.
Who Is Jaclyn Matfus?
Jaclyn Matfus is an actress, producer, and humanitarian, best known publicly for her connection to the film industry and her marriage to musician Ben Harper. Born in 1984, Matfus has appeared in several creative projects, with her most recognized film credit linked to 17 Again, the popular 2009 fantasy-comedy starring Zac Efron and Matthew Perry.
Although her roles in film have not been highly publicized, Matfus’s involvement in entertainment reflects her interest in creative expression rather than fame. Over the years, multiple sources and interviews suggest that she has been engaged in humanitarian and social efforts, particularly concerning human trafficking awareness. While details of these initiatives remain private, her name has appeared in conversations about advocacy work, signaling her desire to use her platform meaningfully.
Her personality is often described as grounded and compassionate, reflected in her public and family life. Her limited social media presence emphasizes her preference for privacy, allowing the world only occasional glimpses into her journey.
Jaclyn Matfus and 17 Again
One of the most frequently searched connections involving Jaclyn Matfus is her association with 17 Again, a well-known 2009 film in which a man magically becomes 17 years old again and gets a second chance at life. While Matfus is not credited as a lead or major supporting actress, she has been referenced in relation to the production and appears in listings connected with the film.
Her involvement, whether on screen or behind the scenes, reflects her early creative career in Hollywood. Even though her contribution was not widely spotlighted, the film’s enduring popularity continues to draw search interest about her connection to it. For many fans researching her today, “Jaclyn Matfus 17 Again” remains a commonly explored keyword.
Marriage to Ben Harper: A Private Love Story
Perhaps the most public aspect of Jaclyn Matfus’s life is her marriage to Ben Harper — a Grammy Award–winning musician celebrated for his soulful blend of blues, rock, folk, and reggae. The couple married on January 1, 2015, choosing a private wedding ceremony that reflected their preference for intimacy over celebrity spectacle.
Ben Harper’s career spans decades, with millions of fans worldwide. Yet Jaclyn Matfus has remained grounded, rarely appearing in tabloids or interviews. Their relationship appears to thrive on mutual respect and privacy, which has helped maintain a stable and peaceful home life.
While Harper has been married before, and has children from previous relationships, his marriage to Matfus is known for being low-profile and harmonious. The pair occasionally appears together at events, but typically avoid media attention. Their partnership exemplifies a modern, blended family dynamic, built around cooperation, love, and respect.
Jaclyn Matfus Children: Motherhood and Family Life
Jaclyn Matfus Baby & Son: Welcoming Besso Harper
One of the most widely discussed topics surrounding Matfus is her journey into motherhood. Jaclyn Matfus and Ben Harper welcomed their first child together on June 17, 2017, a son named Besso.
The arrival of Besso was joyful news shared through entertainment media, though the couple kept details minimal, consistent with their private lifestyle. Unlike many celebrity parents, Matfus and Harper have chosen not to publicly document their son’s life on social media, reinforcing their desire to protect his privacy. This has only increased public interest in searches such as “Jaclyn Matfus baby,” “Jaclyn Matfus son,” and “Jaclyn Matfus children.”
A Blended Family
Jaclyn Matfus is also the stepmother to Ben Harper’s four older children:
- Charles James Harper (born 1997)
- Harris Harper (born around 1999/2000)
- Ellery Walker Harper (born August 21, 2001)
- Jaya Harper (born November 28, 2004)
Each of Harper’s older children has grown up partly in the public eye, especially Ellery and Jaya, who have been connected with modeling and entertainment. While Jaclyn does not appear frequently in public photos with them, she is often acknowledged as part of the family and described as a supportive presence.
Her experience as both a biological mother and stepmother demonstrates emotional maturity and strength — qualities that those close to her often mention.
The Harper–Matfus household is known to be warm, collaborative, and deeply grounded in artistic and humanitarian values. This blended family dynamic is a significant part of Jaclyn’s identity and public interest in her life.
Jaclyn Matfus Age and Birthday
Jaclyn Matfus was born in 1984, making her approximately 41 years old (as of 2025). Her exact birthday is not publicly disclosed, a detail consistent with her overall preference for privacy. Many readers search for “Jaclyn Matfus age” and “Jaclyn Matfus birthday,” but unlike many entertainment figures, she has chosen not to make this specific information public.
This selective privacy reflects her desire to maintain clear boundaries between her personal and public life — a rare quality in an era where most biographical details of celebrity-connected individuals are widely shared.
Career Beyond Acting: Production, Advocacy, and Creativity
Although most people recognize her name in connection with acting or Ben Harper, Jaclyn Matfus’s creative journey extends further:
Acting & Production Work
Her early work includes:
- 10ten (2006)
- 17 Again (2009)
While her filmography is not extensive, it shows her interest in participating in meaningful creative projects. She has also been associated with production roles, though public documentation of these efforts is limited.
Humanitarian Involvement
Reports over the years show Matfus supporting efforts to combat human trafficking, attending awareness events, and promoting charity initiatives. While she does not broadcast this work publicly, those within advocacy circles recognize her passion for social change.
Her humanitarian side often contrasts with the typical entertainment industry narrative — she prefers working quietly, contributing her time, energy, and heart rather than seeking publicity.
Net Worth: What Do We Know?
Searches for “Jaclyn Matfus net worth” are common, but no credible source provides verified net worth information for her. While Ben Harper, as an established global musician, has documented earnings estimates, Matfus has never publicly shared financial details.
Any online claims about her net worth are purely speculative. What can be said is:
- She has worked professionally in entertainment
- She is married to a successful musician with global tours and album sales
- She participates in philanthropy and private projects
However, without factual financial disclosures, her net worth remains unknown — and respecting her privacy is essential.
Jaclyn Matfus: A Portrait of Graceful Privacy
In an entertainment world increasingly dominated by constant sharing and online visibility, Jaclyn Matfus stands out remarkably. Her life represents a blend of artistry, compassion, and intentional privacy. While she has connections to Hollywood and is married to one of America’s most recognizable musicians, Matfus has carved out a lifestyle rooted in meaningful work, family love, and social awareness.
Her story — from her early film involvement to becoming a mother to her son Besso, to stepping into the role of stepmother to Harper’s older children — highlights patience, emotional intelligence, and quiet confidence. These qualities have helped her maintain a life of balance, far from the chaos of the celebrity spotlight.
For readers researching keywords such as “Who is Jaclyn Matfus,” “Jaclyn Matfus baby,” “Jaclyn Matfus son,” “Jaclyn Matfus husband,” “Jaclyn Matfus net worth,” “Jaclyn Matfus age,” or “Jaclyn Matfus family,” the picture that emerges is one of a woman who values authenticity over attention.
While much about her remains intentionally private, the aspects publicly known already paint a portrait of someone grounded, kind-hearted, and quietly influential.
As storytellers, researchers, and readers dig deeper into individuals like Jaclyn Matfus, it becomes clear that sometimes the most compelling figures are the ones who do not seek the spotlight — but shine through their actions, integrity, and character.
Final Note:
This article is published for informational and storytelling purposes.
Read more well-researched entertainment stories and biography features on Buzstart, where we explore public figures with depth, clarity, and respect for their privacy.
