Matthew Rhys, the Emmy-winning actor, draws inspiration from the legendary Anthony Hopkins for his latest role in the Netflix thriller series, 'The Beast in Me'. In this intriguing performance, Rhys embodies the enigmatic property tycoon, Nile Jarvis, a character he describes as a 'Hitchcockian' cat-and-mouse game. The actor's portrayal is heavily influenced by the iconic film, 'The Silence of the Lambs', and its star, Anthony Hopkins. During an appearance on 'The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon', Rhys shared his admiration for Hopkins, stating, 'If you're going to steal, steal from the best. I stole a lot from Anthony Hopkins.'
The actor, who grew up in Cardiff and now resides in New York, also discussed his Welsh heritage and traditions. He humorously revealed that his family partakes in a leek-eating competition on March 1st and insists on coal in their Christmas stockings, a unique custom in Wales. Rhys also showcased his artistic side by carving a Celtic love spoon for his partner, Keri Russell, for her birthday, demonstrating the practicality and romance intertwined in Welsh culture.
When asked about livestock traditions, Rhys mentioned the 'Mari Lwyd' or 'Grey Mare' custom, where a horse's head is draped with a cloak on New Year's Eve. He also playfully noted the Welsh claim to have invented rap, where individuals would sing verses across a door to argue their case for entry. Rhys' connection to Wales is further solidified by his upcoming national tour, where he will portray Richard Burton in a one-man show, commencing in Mwldan, Cardigan, and concluding in Pontrhydyfen.
