Keri Russell on the downsides of acting with your partner (NPR+)
Summary
In this Fresh Air Plus bonus episode, host Sam Brigger revisits his 2023 interview with actress Carrie Russell ahead of her sixth Emmy nomination for The Diplomat. Russell discusses her journey from The All-New Mickey Mouse Club to her breakout role in Felicity, explaining why she took a hiatus from acting to reclaim her youth. She also reflects on her time in The Americans, detailing the fun of wearing wigs and disguises while exploring the complexities of a long-term marriage with co-star Matthew Rhys.
Topics discussed
Introduction and Emmy nominations context
The Diplomat: Character and plot overview
Career retrospective and welcome to Fresh Air
How Carrie Russell was cast in The Diplomat
Kate Weiler's personality and 'itchy' nature
Relating to the character's discomfort with glamour
The Americans: Show background and premise
Casting process and playing an ordinary spy
Scene: Revealing the truth to their daughter
Psychological impact of lies on children
Complexity of the spy family dynamic
Humanizing a cold, calculating character
Fun of acting with wigs and disguises
The show as a study of marriage and trust
Acting with real-life partner Matthew Rhys
Filming the silent tooth-pulling scene
Childhood start on The All-New Mickey Mouse Club
Reflections on child acting and parenting
Breakout role in Felicity and early career
Scene: Felicity confronts Ben in the stairway
Taking a break from acting and dealing with fame
Closing remarks and credits
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