Keri Russell Discusses Matthew Rhys' Emmy Acceptance Speeches

Keri Russell discussed her partner Matthew Rhys' Emmy acceptance speeches during an appearance on Chelsea Handler’s podcast, "Dear Chelsea," on October 8, 2026. Russell, who met Rhys on the set of "The Americans" in 2012, stated that she gave him permission not to thank her during his speeches due to the nerves they both experienced. "He was just so nervous. I mean, we were all nervous. … But, you know, it’s a lot. It’s a lot of pressure," Russell said. She recalled telling him, "Take me off your plate. Like, you don’t have to thank me. I know you love me." Russell mentioned that people still comment on Rhys not thanking them during his 2018 Emmy win, calling the reactions "stupid" and "lame." Handler noted that many individuals involved in a production might deserve recognition, to which Russell agreed, stating, "I don’t care if you want to thank the dog walker. You do whatever you want to do. That’s your minute. That’s your 45 seconds." Rhys made history at the 2026 Emmys by winning lead actor in a limited or anthology series for "The Beast in Me" and lead actor in a comedy series for "Widow’s Bay," which won a total of 14 awards. Russell was nominated for lead actress in a drama series for "The Diplomat" and also received recognition as an executive producer. During his acceptance speech for "The Beast in Me," Rhys humorously referred to his Emmy statuette and thanked the show's writers and director. He later acknowledged his family, particularly his parents and sister, during his speech for "Widow’s Bay." Russell and Rhys have been together for over a decade and share a 10-year-old son, Sam.