Keri Russell reveals why she missed part of her own 50th birthday party

Keri Russell reveals why she went to bed early during her 50th birthday celebration planned by Matthew Rhys

Keri Russell has shared details of her 50th birthday celebration, revealing why she eventually had to leave the party and put herself to bed.

The Diplomat star turned 50 on March 23 while filming the Netflix drama's fourth season. During an appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon on October 8, Russell explained that her partner, actor Matthew Rhys, had arranged for some of her closest friends to visit her abroad for a three-day countryside getaway.

Russell described the celebration as involving “excessive drinking” and admitted that the festivities became challenging because she prefers going to bed early.

Her actual birthday fell on the final day of the trip, when the group enjoyed a celebratory dinner. However, the actress eventually decided she needed to rest.

“I think I’m gonna lay down for a minute,” Russell recalled telling her friends before going upstairs. She added that she vomited before putting herself to bed, while her friends sent her a video of themselves singing “Happy Birthday”.

Despite the eventful celebration, Russell said she was enjoying turning 50. When host Jimmy Fallon asked about entering the new decade, she replied, “It’s good. 50’s good.”

Russell, who has been with Rhys for years, was filming The Diplomat during the birthday trip. The political drama follows Kate Wyler, a US diplomat navigating international crises and complicated personal relationships.

The Netflix series is set to return for its fourth season on October 15, 2026. According to its official synopsis, the new season follows the fallout from the previous season's dramatic ending, as Kate faces growing political tensions involving the United States and the United Kingdom.

Russell has previously praised the series, describing her role as Kate as an enjoyable opportunity to portray a character who is intelligent, funny and fierce.

The Diplomat season 4 premieres on Netflix on October 15.