Keri Russell Discusses Relationship with Matthew Rhys

Keri Russell recently spoke openly about the early stages of her relationship with actor Matthew Rhys. During an appearance on the “Dear Chelsea” podcast, the 50-year-old actress shared her experiences of falling in love with Rhys while working on the TV series “The Americans.”

“We were falling in love, staying up all night, having frequent intimate moments, and putting on disguises,” she said. “It was fun, sneaky, and quite thrilling.”

Russell and Rhys met briefly before collaborating on “The Americans,” but they reconnected in 2012 to film the first season. Their relationship became publicly known in April 2014 after dating rumors began in late 2013. Together, they share a son named Sam, born in May 2016. Russell also has two children, River and Willa, from her previous marriage to Shane Deary.

While discussing marriage on the podcast, Russell expressed her perspective. “I’ve had a big party. I get to dress up often,” she said. “People used to need to be married to have a credit card. We can have credit cards now. I don’t need my last name to change.” She feels that since they share a child, that’s a “forever” bond for her.

Russell is currently promoting her Netflix series “The Diplomat,” where she plays a U.S. ambassador facing political conflicts. She described the character as “smart, funny, and fierce” but also prone to making mistakes, which makes playing her enjoyable. “To constantly lose and mess up in a drama is good,” she said.

Regarding recent events, Handler mentioned Rhys’s omission of Russell in his Emmy acceptance speeches. Russell explained that she advised him not to worry about thanking her. “Take me off your plate,” she told him, understanding the pressure of making a speech. “I know you love me,” she added, assuring Rhys that his time was for whoever he felt needed acknowledgment.