Person

Matthew Rhys

Welsh actor and four-time Emmy winner — Philip Jennings on The Americans, the title role in Perry Mason and Mayor Tom Loftis on Widow's Bay.

Born: November 8, 1974
From: Cardiff, Wales
Occupation: Actor
Emmys: 4 — The Americans (2018); Widow's Bay and The Beast in Me (2026)
Record: Only performer with a lead acting Emmy in drama, comedy and limited series
Trained: Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, London
Breakthrough: Kevin Walker on Brothers & Sisters (ABC, 2006-2011)
Also known for: Perry Mason (HBO, 2020-2023), The Post (2017)
Stage: Benjamin Braddock in The Graduate, Gielgud Theatre, 2000

Matthew Rhys is a Welsh actor from Cardiff and the first performer to win a lead acting Emmy in all three genres: drama for The Americans in 2018, then comedy for Widow's Bay and limited series for The Beast in Me on the same night in September 2026. He trained at RADA and played Benjamin Braddock in the West End in 2000.

Matthew Rhys news

Split image: Matthew Rhys holding an Emmy at the podium, and Dustin Hoffman speaking at a microphone in a tuxedo

Backstage

Matthew Rhys Says Dustin Hoffman Snubbed Him Backstage in 2000

Sep 19, 2026, 10:06 AM ET

Matthew Rhys in a tuxedo holding his Emmy statuette at the podium of the 78th Primetime Emmy Awards

Emmy record

‘Widow’s Bay’ Wins 14 Emmys, the Most Ever for a Comedy Series

Sep 19, 2026, 10:06 AM ET

Sources

Television Academy, 78th Primetime Emmy Awards
Royal Academy of Dramatic Art
BAFTA Cymru

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