Nearly 30 years after stepping onto the set of “Felicity,” stars Keri Russell and Scott Speedman recently reunited for a candid conversation, reflecting on their enduring friendship, the hit show that launched their careers, and where life has taken them since. The beloved J.J. Abrams-created drama, which aired on The WB from 1998 to 2002, remains a defining piece of ’90s television history and a pivotal moment for the young actors.
Today, Russell is earning acclaim leading the Netflix series “The Diplomat,” while Speedman continues his run on the long-running medical hit “Grey’s Anatomy.” Despite their busy schedules and evolved careers, the bond forged nearly three decades ago remains, prompting reflections on discipline, career choices, and even a touch of playful regret.
Looking Back at the ‘Felicity’ Days
Discussing their initial meeting while filming the “Felicity” pilot in April 1998, Russell recalled Speedman’s remarkable discipline, linking it to his background as an Olympic-trials swimmer. “You were always someone who did your homework,” she noted, adding that he was the one who always knew his lines, a trait she sees in him still today.
Speedman acknowledged his disciplined approach but shared the challenge of needing to “let go” of over-preparation in acting, contrasting the “muscular” energy of sports with the need for a looser approach on screen. Russell agreed, noting that acting felt like it required much more looseness. Speedman even admitted to running around the soundstages before scenes on “Felicity,” a physical release Russell remembers well.
Reflecting on their time as young stars, Russell quipped about wishing she had been “more wild.” “Why didn’t I have more fun?” she mused, though she clarified they certainly had their version of fun. Speedman observed Russell’s transformation into a “fearless performer” on “The Diplomat,” seeing a lack of self-consciousness that impresses him. Russell, however, confessed to still feeling daily embarrassment, even finding simple tasks like getting the mail or doing photo shoots difficult, sometimes requiring a drink to get through them. She credits the exceptional writing on “The Diplomat” by showrunner Debora Cahn for providing a sense of safety that allows her to take creative risks in her performance.
Current Roles and On-Set Dynamics
The conversation naturally turned to their current successful series. Russell spoke passionately about “The Diplomat,” finding deep relevance in the show’s geopolitical themes. She sees her character as an “amalgamation” of real figures like Hillary Clinton, Bill Clinton, and Samantha Power, feeling proud to engage with the world in a way that feels “less frivolous” and shines a light on important diplomatic work.
Speedman detailed the challenge of memorizing medical jargon on “Grey’s Anatomy,” which he surprisingly finds “really fun.” He shared a surprising tip for mastering the complex dialogue: quitting coffee. He explained that too much caffeine makes it harder for him to settle into the necessary rhythm of the medical speak. He also highlighted the importance of coordinating dialogue with props in medical scenes and praised the long-time on-set nurse who ensures medical accuracy.
Russell also discussed her role as an executive producer on “The Diplomat.” While she jokingly mentioned using her power for simple requests like snacks, she emphasized the increased sense of responsibility for the team and the satisfaction of having her ideas valued in the creative process.
The Enduring Hair Conversation
A humorous, recurring theme that has followed Russell throughout her career, particularly since her famous Season 2 haircut on “Felicity,” is her character’s hair. Speedman brought up a specific scene in “The Diplomat” where Allison Janney’s character critiques Russell’s appearance, including her hair. Russell noted that many viewers, particularly women, have commented that her character’s disheveled hair on the show is unrealistic for a diplomat. She playfully questioned why Speedman’s own “good hair” doesn’t receive similar scrutiny.
Life and Location Changes
The former co-stars also touched upon how their lives have evolved geographically. Russell feels her move to New York City years ago was incredibly beneficial, enjoying the anonymity and ease of navigating the city. Speedman, now a father, expressed a growing preference for Big Sur and a notable disenchantment with the “Hollywood cult of private schools” in Los Angeles. He feels they’ve essentially swapped preferred locations over the years.
The Last-Minute Audition That Changed Everything
Revisiting the start, they recounted Speedman’s almost unbelievable last-minute casting for “Felicity.” Living on his mom’s couch in Toronto, he sent a tape and received a call days later. The network had to quickly figure out how to legally get him into the U.S. Three days later, he was in Los Angeles, likely wearing his girlfriend’s peacoat, having dinner with J.J. Abrams that night. Speedman remembers meeting Russell at the read-through a couple of days later and, recalling her from “Malibu Shores,” initially thinking she was miscast for the seemingly “nerd” role of Felicity. Both agreed that “Felicity” was a truly “sweet little something” and a special time where they, and the cast and crew, grew up together. Russell also recalled her own rigorous audition process for the role, reading five times before landing the part.
