Welsh actor Matthew Rhys etched his name into television history on Monday night by becoming the first individual to claim two lead acting awards at the Emmy ceremony. Recognized for his performances in the supernatural comedy Widow’s Bay and the psychological thriller The Beast In Me, Rhys described the experience as a “surreal and incredible feeling.”
In an interview with the BBC following the historic achievement, the actor revealed that he had not anticipated taking home the statue for The Beast In Me. Consequently, he admitted to arriving at the podium without a prepared statement.
“I hadn’t really prepared anything, as may be apparent from the vomit of a speech I came up with,” Rhys quipped regarding his impromptu remarks. The dual victory highlights a remarkable evening for the actor, distinguishing him as the first person to secure two lead acting prizes in a single broadcast of the prestigious US awards show.
Matthew Rhys has been killing it since The Americans. This win feels well-deserved after all these years.
The improvised speech was hilarious. He kept it real instead of reading a prepared statement. Love that about him.
Wait, first ever? That seems wildly unlikely in a long-running awards show. Maybe I’m missing something?
I didn’t even know he was in two shows this year! His range is honestly incredible. Historic night for sure.