Matt Villines

Matt Villines (June 5, 1977 – July 9, 2016) was an American film and television director, known for his work in comedy as one half of the comedic directing team Matt & Oz, with professional partner, Osmany Rodriguez.

Early life and education

Villines was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, on June 5, 1977. He graduated from Bishop Kelley High School in 1995 and received his bachelor's degree in 2000 from the University of Oklahoma. The directing duo's other SNL Digital Shorts included "Darrell's House," "Sad Mouse," "Monster Pals," "Back Home Ballers," and "Jay Z Story."

Villines and Rodriguez directed Taran Killam in the film, Brother Nature, which was produced by Lorne Michaels.

Death

Villines was diagnosed with advanced kidney cancer in 2014. He died on July 9, 2016, at the age of 39. He was survived by his wife, Linda, whom he married shortly before his diagnosis; his parents, Maggie and Elton Villines; and his sisters.