"RE-RELEASE: Matthew Rhys"

Matthew Rhys, the Welsh actor known for his roles in "The Americans" and "Perry Mason," recently joined Jason Bateman and Will Arnett on their podcast. The conversation touched upon Rhys's upbringing, his career trajectory, and his personal life with fellow actor Keri Russell.

Welsh Roots and Early Aspirations

Rhys, a native of Cardiff, Wales, shared insights into his unique cultural background. He revealed that Welsh was his first language, a fact that surprised many. "I grew up speaking Welsh, the whole family speak Welsh," Rhys explained, noting that Welsh is an ancient language, predating English and one of the oldest in Europe. He described a Welsh tradition where children are encouraged to perform on stage from a young age, fostering a deep connection to the performing arts. "You're kind of kicked onto a stage whether you want to or not," he quipped. This early exposure to performance clearly shaped his future.

Rhys recounted his journey to the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London, a prestigious acting school. He was part of a small intake of only 30 students each year, emphasizing the competitive nature of the institution. He also shared a humorous anecdote about his mother, Jane Mansfield, who made her Broadway debut in the same theater where Rhys was performing. This revelation came as a surprise to Rhys himself, highlighting the serendipitous connections within his family's history.