Matthew Rhys Credits Anthony Hopkins as Inspiration for New Netflix Thriller, “The Beast in Me“
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Emmy Award-winning actor Matthew Rhys drew inspiration from fellow Welshman Anthony Hopkins for his latest role in the upcoming Netflix thriller, The Beast in Me. Rhys, known for his captivating performances, discussed his creative process and his deep connection to his Welsh heritage during an appearance on The Tonight Show starring Jimmy Fallon.
A Hitchcockian Thriller with a Hopkins Influence
Rhys stars as Nile Jarvis, a property tycoon, in The Beast in Me, which he describes as an “old-fashioned Hitchcockian” tale and a compelling game of “cat and mouse.” He revealed that the 1990 classic The Silence of the Lambs and Hopkins’ iconic portrayal of Hannibal Lecter significantly influenced his approach to the character. “If you are going to steal, steal from the best. I stole a lot from Anthony Hopkins,” Rhys stated.
The Beast in Me centers around a man who appears to be the perfect partner, but harbors a dark secret. The story unfolds as his new lover begins to suspect his true nature, leading to a tense and suspenseful confrontation. the series explores themes of deception,control,and the hidden darkness within seemingly ordinary individuals. The series is based on the novel of the same name by Peter Swanson.
Celebrating Welsh Traditions
The conversation with Fallon also turned to Rhys’s Welsh roots. Despite now residing in New York, the Cardiff-born actor actively maintains traditions with his family. He playfully shared that he insists his children consume Welsh staples like leeks and lamb, even hosting a leek-eating competition annually on March 1st. “I insist the children have coal in their Christmas stockings, which is a luxury item in Wales,” he joked, highlighting the past significance of coal in Welsh culture.
Romance, Crafts, and the “Mari Lwyd”
Rhys demonstrated his commitment to Welsh customs by revealing he carved a Celtic love spoon for his partner, actor Keri Russell, for her birthday. Fallon remarked on the gesture’s beauty,to which Rhys quipped,”If the Welsh are going to do romance,they have to be practical.”
The actor also detailed more unusual Welsh traditions, including one tied to livestock. “Sadly, you have to wait till one of the animals dies,” he explained, before describing the New Year’s Eve custom of the “Mari Lwyd,” or “the Gray Mare.” This involves parading a horse’s head draped in a cloak,engaging in a lyrical exchange with those behind closed doors. Rhys added with a smile, “The Welsh have a bold statement in that we sort of pretend that we invented rap. you would sing a verse, and then someone on the other side of the door would sing a verse back as to why they shouldn’t let you in.”
Return to Wales with Richard Burton
Rhys recently concluded a new series, The Richard Burton Diaries, where he voiced the entries of the late actor. He returned to Wales to film the series, a homecoming he described as deeply meaningful. The series explores Burton’s life and career through his own words, offering a unique insight into the complexities of a Hollywood icon.
The Beast in Me is scheduled for release on Netflix on May 1,
