Netflix star wants to speak to her son in Welsh

Keri Russell, the star of the hit Netflix series The Diplomat, is embarking on a journey to learn Welsh in order to communicate with her son in his father’s native language. Russell, who is in a long-term relationship with Cardiff-born actor Matthew Rhys, met him while filming the critically acclaimed spy drama The Americans. The couple shares a son, Sam, and Russell has been inspired by her partner’s connection to Welsh culture.

At 48, Russell revealed that she has picked up some basic Welsh phrases from listening to Rhys converse with his family and their child. “I know bore da, nos da, I know how to count, normal livable things,” she shared during an interview with Lucy Owen. However, she acknowledged that Rhys often speaks to Sam almost exclusively in Welsh, prompting her desire to learn the language more thoroughly.

Russell expressed her fascination with Welsh culture, highlighting her interest in the rich traditions surrounding the language. “Everything about the Welsh culture—from the eisteddfod to poetry and dance—is fascinating,” she remarked. “Meeting Math and learning about that has made it a big part of who he is. It’s wonderful that children grow up immersed in this ancient tradition of art, dance, and singing.”

In The Diplomat, Russell portrays Kate Wyler, the U.S. ambassador to the UK, who is being groomed for a vice presidential role. The show’s second season premiered on Netflix this week, and Russell has found herself reflecting on the themes and characters that parallel real-world politics.

While the ongoing battle for the U.S. presidency has been highly publicized, Russell clarified that any similarities to current events were coincidental. “Writing and filming happened so long ago, and we were interrupted and delayed by the strikes involving writers and actors,” she explained. “Although this is extremely topical, we had made our show well before all of this.”

Despite the timing, Russell noted that the show includes significant discussions about the vice presidency. “There’s one particularly spicy scene where my husband’s character says some disparaging remarks to the vice president’s character, which is very much inspired by real life,” she said with a hint of amusement.

Russell also shared her gratitude for being able to portray a powerful and intelligent woman in a leading role. She acknowledged the shifting landscape for women in Hollywood, especially as they approach the age of 50. “There was a time when women would find that their careers were winding down at that age,” she recalled. “So, to get the opportunity to work on a project that is smart, funny, and everything I want it to be, I’m beyond grateful.”

The actress’s commitment to learning Welsh represents a broader appreciation for her partner’s heritage and a desire to foster that connection with their son. Russell’s journey is emblematic of the many ways in which cultural identities can be intertwined in family life, particularly in relationships that span different backgrounds.

Her efforts to immerse herself in Welsh culture go beyond language learning; they reflect a deep respect for the traditions and customs that Rhys holds dear. As she navigates her professional life, Russell is also dedicated to nurturing her personal connections, making her a relatable figure for many parents striving to balance their careers with family responsibilities.

As The Diplomat continues to captivate audiences, Russell’s exploration of language and culture adds another layer to her already multifaceted career. The show’s success and her evolving role as a mother and partner demonstrate how personal and professional worlds can beautifully intertwine, creating rich narratives both on and off-screen.

With each passing day, Russell moves closer to her goal of speaking Welsh fluently, enriching her relationship with her son and deepening her understanding of the culture that has become an integral part of her life.