Matthew Rhys Pokes Fun at Michael Sheen, Declares Him a Talent Too Good for Welsh Actors
London, UK - In a statement that’s sure to spark friendly rivalry across the Welsh acting fraternity, Emmy Award-winning actor Matthew Rhys has playfully suggested that his compatriot Michael Sheen sets an impossibly high bar, effectively putting other Welsh performers to shame. The comments come as Rhys prepares to step into the formidable shoes of legendary Welsh actor Richard Burton for a special production aimed at raising funds for the Welsh National Theatre.
Rhys, known for his captivating roles in The Americans and Perry Mason, was speaking at an event previewing the upcoming theatrical endeavor. While the focus of the evening was on the significant charitable cause and the iconic figure of Richard Burton, Rhys couldn't resist a good-natured jab at Sheen, a fellow Welshman and a titan of stage and screen in his own right.
"Honestly, Michael Sheen… he just makes us all look bad," Rhys quipped to a gathering of press and theatre supporters. "He’s so ridiculously talented, so dedicated, he just… he sets a standard that’s frankly unfair to the rest of us trying to make a living. It’s like, 'Oh, you’re Welsh? Well, you better be Michael Sheen, otherwise, what are you even doing?'" The playful exaggeration, delivered with a wry smile, was met with laughter, highlighting the camaraderie that often exists between actors, even as they playfully tease each other's achievements.
A Star-Studded Tribute to Richard Burton
The production in question is a reading of Dylan Thomas’s Under Milk Wood, a seminal piece of Welsh literature that also features Richard Burton prominently in its history. Burton, a Bridgend-born actor, famously narrated the original 1954 BBC radio production and starred in the 1972 film adaptation. Rhys’s casting as Burton is, therefore, a deeply resonant choice, bridging generations of Welsh talent and celebrating a national treasure.
The event, scheduled to take place at a prestigious London venue, aims to generate much-needed funds for the Welsh National Theatre, an organisation dedicated to fostering and showcasing Welsh drama and talent. The theatre plays a crucial role in nurturing new writers, actors, and directors, providing a vital platform for stories rooted in Welsh culture and identity.
Rhys, who has himself championed Welsh arts and culture on numerous occasions, expressed his personal connection to the project. "Richard Burton is, of course, one of our absolute giants. To have the opportunity to inhabit his voice, to explore his connection to Dylan Thomas’s work, it’s a privilege. And to do it for the Welsh National Theatre, an organisation that does such important work for the future of theatre in Wales… it’s an honour I couldn’t pass up."
The reading will also feature a stellar cast of Welsh actors, further underscoring the collaborative spirit and the depth of talent emerging from Wales. While specific names were not all revealed at the preview, the anticipation is palpable. The idea of a gathering of prominent Welsh actors, all coming together for a common cause, is a powerful testament to their shared heritage and commitment to their roots.
Sheen’s Unrivalled Pedigree
Rhys’s comments about Michael Sheen are not without good reason. Sheen, a Port Talbot native, has carved out a remarkable career, lauded for his versatility and intensity. From his transformative performances as Tony Blair in Peter Morgan's The Deal, The Queen, and The Special Relationship, to his chilling portrayal of Lucifer in Good Omens, and his captivating work in The Damned United, Sheen consistently delivers performances that are both critically acclaimed and deeply memorable.
His stage work is equally impressive, with numerous acclaimed productions in London’s West End and on Broadway. Sheen is not just an actor; he’s a cultural force, a voice for Wales, and an inspiration to many. It’s this consistent excellence, this seemingly effortless command of character, that has earned him such widespread admiration – and, apparently, a touch of friendly envy from his peers.
"You watch Michael, and you think, 'Right, I need to up my game by about 500%'," Rhys continued, a twinkle in his eye. "He’s just… he’s the benchmark. If you’re a Welsh actor and you’re not pushing yourself to be as brilliant as Michael Sheen, are you even trying? It’s a lovely sort of pressure, though. It keeps you honest."
The Enduring Legacy of Richard Burton and Dylan Thomas
The choice of Under Milk Wood is particularly significant. Dylan Thomas’s "play for voices" is a vibrant, poetic, and often humorous exploration of the imagined Welsh seaside village of Llareggub (which, when read backwards, offers a rather cheeky commentary on the village's perceived nature). The play’s rich tapestry of characters, its lyrical language, and its profound understanding of human nature have made it a cornerstone of 20th-century literature.
Richard Burton’s association with the work is legendary. His deep baritone voice, imbued with the distinctive Welsh lilt, brought the narrator’s words to life with an unparalleled gravitas and warmth. For many, Burton’s voice *is* the voice of Under Milk Wood. Rhys’s undertaking this role is, therefore, not just an acting challenge but a homage to a national icon and a beloved work of art.
The fundraising aspect of the event cannot be overstated. The Welsh National Theatre, like many arts organisations, faces ongoing challenges in securing sustainable funding. Events like these, featuring high-profile talent, are crucial for raising awareness and generating vital income. The theatre’s work extends beyond major productions; it encompasses workshops, outreach programmes, and the development of new Welsh writing, ensuring that the cultural landscape of Wales continues to thrive.
As Matthew Rhys prepares to embody the spirit of Richard Burton and contribute to the future of Welsh theatre, his lighthearted remarks about Michael Sheen serve as a humorous reminder of the high standards set by Welsh actors. It’s a playful nod to the fierce talent pool that Wales consistently produces, a pool that, thanks to the efforts of actors like Rhys and the benchmark set by Sheen, continues to push boundaries and captivate audiences worldwide. One can only imagine the conversations at the next Welsh actors' reunion – likely filled with good humour, shared pride, and perhaps a few more playful digs at Sheen’s exceptional talent.
You must be logged in to post a comment.