Keri Russell revealed she sometimes buys her own red carpet gowns because she cannot always secure designer dresses for awards shows.
The Golden Globe winner, 49, made the candid admission in a joint interview with her partner Matthew Rhys, 50, for Variety. The couple, who have been together since 2013, discussed their careers, family life, and the realities of their fame level ahead of the 2026 Emmy Awards. Russell is currently nominated for her eighth Emmy for her lead role in Netflix’s “The Diplomat,” while Rhys received two nominations for “Widow’s Bay” and “The Beast In Me.”
“We’re not that famous,” Russell shared with the publication, downplaying her celebrity status despite decades of starring in hit television series.
Doubling down on her self-deprecating tone, the actress explained the practical consequences of her perceived lack of star power. She “sometimes can’t get a dress” for major awards shows, forcing her to purchase her own formal wear rather than borrowing from fashion houses.
“I am not, you know, someone famous,” she added, distinguishing herself from the A-list celebrities who typically receive custom gowns loaned for red carpet appearances.
Russell continued, drawing a sharp contrast between her relatively normal life and that of her more famous neighbors. “People don’t really care about us — in a great way. Some people in our neighborhood are very famous, and their life is very different. And it seems so hard.”
The couple also sat for a video interview with Variety, during which Rhys displayed the deadpan humor that has become his trademark. When asked how he selects his projects, the Welsh actor joked that financial considerations drive every decision. “What pays most, wins, very simple,” he deadpanned, prompting Russell to wipe tears of laughter from her eyes.
“Three children and a mortgage,” Rhys continued, explaining his mercenary approach to role selection. “I’ll get after it … I have no shame, I’ll whore myself with the best of them.”
Russell shares two children with ex-husband Shane Deary — River, 19, and Willa, 13 — and a son, Sam, 10, with Rhys. The blended family has largely stayed out of the public eye, consistent with Russell’s preference for privacy throughout her career.
Stylist Frank Flemming currently dresses both Russell and Rhys for their public appearances. Though he has not publicly commented on Russell’s revelation about purchasing her own gowns, he has successfully secured numerous headline-making looks for the couple despite their professed “lack of fame.”
The 2026 Emmy Awards are scheduled for Sept. 14, giving Russell ample time to source her next red carpet look — whether borrowed or bought.