American actress Keri Russell, known for her roles in “The Americans” and “The Diplomat,” has expressed her admiration for Welsh culture and her desire to learn the Welsh language. Russell, who shares a Welsh-speaking son with Cardiff actor Matthew Rhys, spoke about her interest in picking up the language in an interview with the BBC. The couple, who met on the set of “The Americans,” where they portrayed Soviet spies, have a son named Sam who Matthew communicates with exclusively in Welsh.
Despite having some knowledge of Welsh, including phrases like “bore da” and “nos da,” Russell expressed her eagerness to learn more about the language and immerse herself in Welsh culture. She mentioned visiting the Welsh learners’ centre Nant Gwytheyrn in Llithfaen, Gwynedd, as part of her exploration of Welsh traditions such as poetry, dance, and art. Russell highlighted the rich artistic heritage of Wales, noting how children grow up participating in traditional arts like singing and dancing.
Matthew Rhys, a Cardiff native, reflected on the cautious approach he and Russell took to their relationship, considering the challenges of workplace romances. The couple, who welcomed their son Sam in 2014, navigate busy schedules that sometimes lead them to feel like “ships passing in the night.” Despite the demands of their careers, they strive to prioritize their family life and find opportunities to work together on projects that excite them both.
In her latest role as US Ambassador Kate Wyler in Netflix’s “The Diplomat,” Russell portrays a powerful and intelligent woman, a character she is grateful to embody at this stage of her career. The actress shared her appreciation for the opportunity to work on a project that aligns with her creative aspirations and values. The success of “The Americans,” where Russell and Rhys played on-screen partners, has set a high standard for their potential future collaborations, with both actors expressing a willingness to reunite for projects that resonate with them.
Russell’s interest in Welsh culture and her commitment to learning the language highlight her deepening connection to Wales, thanks to her relationship with Rhys and their shared experiences as parents. As she continues to explore her Welsh roots and engage with the country’s artistic traditions, Russell embodies a blend of personal growth and professional achievement that reflects her versatile talents as an actress and her enduring passion for storytelling.
This narrative unravels the journey of actress Keri Russell as she embraces Welsh culture and shares her aspirations to embrace the Welsh language, guided by her personal and professional connections to Wales. Through her experiences with partner Matthew Rhys and their son Sam, Russell’s exploration of Welsh heritage underscores the transformative power of cross-cultural encounters and the enduring allure of artistic expression.