Hailee Darling

Written by Hailee Darling

Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024

Jessica Corbett

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

36-facts-about-matthew-rhys
Source: Thelist.com

Matthew Rhys is a talented and versatile actor who has captivated audiences with his mesmerizing performances throughout his career. With his undeniable charm and incredible acting prowess, Rhys has become one of the most sought-after celebrities in the entertainment industry. From his early beginnings in Welsh theater to his breakout role as Philip Jennings in the hit TV series “The Americans,” Rhys has consistently displayed his immense talent and passion for the craft of acting.

In this article, we will delve deeper into the life and career of Matthew Rhys, uncovering 36 fascinating facts about the Welsh actor. From his childhood aspirations to his outstanding achievements, we will explore the journey that has led Rhys to become the beloved and celebrated star he is today. So, buckle up and get ready to uncover some incredible insights into the life of Matthew Rhys and discover why he has become such an influential figure in the world of entertainment.

Key Takeaways:

  • Matthew Rhys, the versatile Welsh actor, won a Golden Globe for his role in “The Americans” and is known for his dedication to characters, philanthropy, and passion for photography.
  • With a passion for acting, languages, and environmental activism, Matthew Rhys continues to captivate audiences with his diverse roles and commitment to his craft.
Table of Contents

Early Life

Matthew Rhys Evans was born on November 4, 1974, in Cardiff, Wales.

Acting Roots

Rhys developed a passion for acting at an early age and attended the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London.

Stage Debut

His professional stage debut came in 1997 when he played Elvis Presley in the production “Elvis Lives!”

Television Breakthrough

Rhys gained widespread recognition for his role as Kevin Walker in the TV drama series “Brothers & Sisters” (2006-2011).

Golden Globe Win

In 2019, Rhys won a Golden Globe for Best Actor in a Television Drama Series for his portrayal of Philip Jennings in “The Americans.

Welsh Language

Rhys is fluent in the Welsh language and has voiced several Welsh-language audiobooks.

Filmography

Aside from his television work, Rhys has an impressive filmography that includes movies like “The Post” (2017) and “Burnt” (2015).

Off-Screen Partnership

Rhys has been in a long-term relationship with actress Keri Russell since meeting on the set of “The Americans.

Welsh Independence Advocate

Rhys has been vocal about his support for Welsh independence and has actively campaigned for political change.

Role Preparation

When preparing for a role, Rhys immerses himself in the character’s life by keeping a diary and writing letters as if he were the character.

Skilled Linguist

In addition to English and Welsh, Rhys is also fluent in Spanish.

The Shakespeare Connection

Rhys has showcased his talent for classical theater by performing in multiple Shakespeare plays, including “Hamlet” and “The Tempest.

International Success

His role in “The Americans” catapulted Rhys to international recognition and earned him critical acclaim.

Philanthropic Efforts

Rhys is involved in various charitable endeavors and has supported organizations like UNICEF and Oxfam.

Accolades

Throughout his career, Rhys has received numerous accolades, including Emmy nominations, Critics’ Choice Awards, and Screen Actors Guild Awards.

Loyal Rugby Fan

As a proud Welshman, Rhys is an avid supporter of the Welsh national rugby team.

Diverse Range

From intense dramas to light-hearted comedies, Rhys has showcased his versatility as an actor, taking on a wide range of roles.

Immigration Experience

Rhys drew upon his own experience as an immigrant while portraying the complex character of Philip Jennings in “The Americans.”

Voice Acting

Rhys has lent his voice to several animated projects, including the character Henry Jones Sr. in the video game “Indiana Jones and the Staff of Kings.”

Passion for Photography

Outside of acting, Rhys has a passion for photography and has been known to capture stunning images during his travels.

Broadway Debut

In 2008, Rhys made his Broadway debut in the play “The Philadelphia Story,” earning critical acclaim for his performance.

Unique Acting Technique

Rhys often incorporates improvisation into his performances, adding depth and authenticity to his characters.

Cultural Ambassador

As a proud Welshman, Rhys has been an ambassador for Welsh culture, promoting the arts and supporting local talent.

Television Directing

Aside from acting, Rhys has also tried his hand at directing, helming episodes of the TV series “The Americans.”

Environmental Activism

Rhys is actively involved in environmental issues and has taken part in campaigns to raise awareness about climate change.

Bonding with Co-Stars

Rhys values creating strong bonds with his co-stars and believes in building trust and camaraderie on set.

Script Research

When preparing for a role, Rhys dives deep into research, meticulously dissecting scripts and historical context.

Influences

Rhys has cited actors like Robert De Niro and Marlon Brando as his influences, admiring their immersive approach to their craft.

Philological Fascination

Rhys has a fascination with languages and enjoys studying the structure and etymology of words.

Social Media Presence

While not particularly active on social media, Rhys occasionally shares behind-the-scenes glimpses and updates with fans.

On-Screen Chemistry

Rhys has undeniable chemistry with his “The Americans” co-star Keri Russell, which further elevated their performances.

Interdisciplinary Collaboration

Rhys has collaborated with various artists, including musicians and photographers, for creative projects outside of acting.

British Academy Television Award

Rhys won the British Academy Television Award for Best Actor for his role in “The Americans” in 2019.

Method Actor

Known for his dedication to his craft, Rhys often fully immerses himself in his characters, embracing method acting techniques.

Reimagining Classic Characters

Rhys had the opportunity to reimagine the iconic character of Perry Mason in the television series of the same name.

Future Endeavors

With his undeniable talent and wide-ranging capabilities, Matthew Rhys continues to explore diverse roles and push the boundaries of his craft.

These 36 facts about Matthew Rhys offer a comprehensive insight into the life and career of this esteemed actor. From his early beginnings to his international success, Rhys has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. With each new project, he captivates audiences with his depth, passion, and commitment to his craft. Matthew Rhys truly stands as a testament to the power of talent, perseverance, and creativity in the world of acting.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Matthew Rhys is undoubtedly an exceptional actor who has captivated audiences with his talent and versatility. With a wide range of roles under his belt, he has proven his ability to portray complex and compelling characters on both the small and big screens. From his breakthrough performance in “Brothers & Sisters” to his critically acclaimed portrayal of Philip Jennings in “The Americans,” Rhys has consistently showcased his acting prowess and continues to be a force to be reckoned with in the entertainment industry.Not only is Rhys a skilled actor, but he is also a humble and down-to-earth individual who remains dedicated to his craft. His commitment to his roles and his willingness to push boundaries has garnered him numerous accolades and a dedicated fanbase.As we look forward to Rhys’ future projects, it is clear that his talent and passion for acting will continue to shine through. Whether he is taking on challenging dramatic roles or exploring new genres, we can be sure that Matthew Rhys will continue to leave a lasting impact on the world of entertainment.

FAQs

Q: When was Matthew Rhys born?

A: Matthew Rhys was born on November 8, 1974.

Q: What are some of Matthew Rhys’ notable TV shows?

A: Some of Matthew Rhys’ notable TV shows include “Brothers & Sisters,” “The Americans,” and “Perry Mason.”

Q: Has Matthew Rhys won any awards?

A: Yes, Matthew Rhys has won several awards throughout his career, including a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series for his role in “The Americans.”

Q: Is Matthew Rhys married?

A: Yes, Matthew Rhys is married to actress Keri Russell.

Q: What is Matthew Rhys’ nationality?

A: Matthew Rhys is Welsh.

Q: Has Matthew Rhys appeared in any movies?

A: Yes, Matthew Rhys has appeared in movies such as “The Post,” “A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood,” and “The Report.”

Q: Can Matthew Rhys speak multiple languages?

A: Yes, Matthew Rhys is fluent in English and Welsh.

Dive deeper into the captivating lives of Hollywood stars and uncover more fascinating facts. Explore the journey of Keri Russell, from her early days to her rise to stardom. Discover the iconic role of Perry Mason, portrayed by the enigmatic Raymond Burr. Lastly, delve into the gripping world of The Americans, a series that redefined television storytelling.

Was this page helpful?

Our commitment to delivering trustworthy and engaging content is at the heart of what we do. Each fact on our site is contributed by real users like you, bringing a wealth of diverse insights and information. To ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability, our dedicated editors meticulously review each submission. This process guarantees that the facts we share are not only fascinating but also credible. Trust in our commitment to quality and authenticity as you explore and learn with us.