Keri Russell recently opened up about her on-screen romance with Matthew Rhys in the acclaimed series The Americans, describing their relationship as “hot and heavy.” The two actors portrayed spies posing as a married couple during the Cold War, and their chemistry extended beyond the screen. Russell noted that the intensity of their characters’ love story mirrored the deep bond they formed while working together, adding a layer of authenticity to their performances. Their connection was not just professional, as the two eventually began dating in real life, making their on-screen romance even more compelling for viewers.
Keri Russell shared her heartfelt reflections on her relationship with Matthew Rhys, revealing that she was truly “in love” with him while filming The Americans. The Golden Globe winner spoke to Variety, recalling how their on-screen chemistry transformed into a passionate real-life romance during the series’ five-year run. “We were, like, hot and heavy in love,” Russell said, reminiscing about their late-night shoots where they portrayed KGB spies in disguises and wigs. Their deep connection both on and off-screen captivated audiences, adding an intriguing layer to their performances in the critically acclaimed FX series.
Keri Russell described her time filming The Americans as “such a fun, sexy time,” emphasizing how enjoyable the experience was for her and Matthew Rhys. Over a decade later, the couple continues to thrive, building a loving home in Brooklyn with their eight-year-old son, Sam. Their enduring love and partnership highlight the strong bond they formed both on and off-screen, making their journey together all the more special.
Keri Russell has two children, River and Willa Lou, with her ex-husband Shane Deary, with whom she split in 2013 after seven years of marriage.
Matthew Rhys recently reflected on their romance, describing it as a classic Hollywood love story, filled with clichés that even surprised them. In an interview with People, he acknowledged that they ended up doing “everything your producers tell you not to do.” He recalled how, despite their initial determination to avoid a conventional relationship, they found themselves swept up in the early stages of their romance, which they kept under wraps for a year. Their journey from secrecy to a thriving partnership adds a charming twist to their love story.
Eventually, Keri Russell and Matthew Rhys felt compelled to disclose their relationship to the show’s team, as it became increasingly difficult to keep it under wraps. When they informed their producers, Russell recalled, “Oh, we do have something to say,” to which the producers responded, “Oh, don’t tell us you’re together.” Instead, the couple surprised them by announcing, “Actually, we’re going to have a baby,” prompting an enthusiastic reaction of “Oh my God,” due to the lengthy secrecy surrounding their relationship.
Interestingly, it wasn’t love at first sight for them. During a 2017 appearance on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen, they fondly recounted their initial meeting in 2002. Rhys, feeling a bit tipsy, awkwardly asked Russell for her number, marking the beginning of their unique and evolving connection.
Matthew Rhys humorously recounted their first encounter, admitting, “I very drunkenly asked for her number.” The meeting took place in a parking lot after a kickball game, where they chatted and Russell even asked him for help opening her beer. Rhys later left her a drunken voicemail, but Russell never called back.
Initially, Russell didn’t think much of their brief interaction until nearly a decade later while filming The Americans. During a lunch, Rhys reminded her, “You know, we’ve met before,” to which she replied, “No, we haven’t.” He clarified, “Yeah, 10 years ago at a kickball party.” Upon hearing that, Russell’s memory kicked in, and she exclaimed, “Of course I remember that!” This amusing recollection showcases the unique path their relationship took from a casual encounter to a deep, lasting love.
