Keri Russell Says “Felicity” Was First Show She Worked On That Had ‘Good Writing’ as Show Begins Streaming on Netflix

Keri Russell Reflects on “Felicity” as It Reaches New Audiences on Netflix

Keri Russell, the beloved actress best known for her role in the iconic series “Felicity,” recently spoke about the significant impact the show had on her career as it started streaming on Netflix. Launched on October 7, the series allows both new viewers and long-time fans to revisit the story of Felicity Porter, a college student whose journey of self-discovery in New York City captured the hearts of audiences in the late 1990s and early 2000s.

In a light-hearted video shared by Netflix, the 50-year-old actress described “Felicity” as a “sweet little poem of a show.” She expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to be part of such a meaningful project, stating that it marked a pivotal moment in her career. “It was the beginning for me, in this whole industry. It’s really the first show I had that I thought was good writing, that I was a part of, that I was like, ‘Oh, that’s good,’” Russell explained.

Throughout its run from 1998 to 2002, “Felicity” followed the journey of a naive young woman who defied her initial plans to attend Stanford University, instead opting to pursue her lifelong crush, Ben Covington, played by Scott Speedman, in New York City. The show not only became a defining role for Russell but also helped shape the narrative style of television in the years that followed.

As the series enjoys renewed popularity with its availability on Netflix, Russell reflected on the charm and nostalgia it offers to both devoted fans and newcomers. “And just for new and old fans,” she noted, “it’s just a sweet little something.” Her fond memories continue to resonate, underscoring the enduring appeal of the series and its themes of love, growth, and personal choice.

In a recent appearance on “Jimmy Kimmel Live,” Russell shared a personal anecdote concerning her daughter, Willa, who recently discovered “Felicity.” Russell recalled suggesting the show to her daughter, who she described as being “mature for her age.” However, the experience did not go as planned. After watching the show for just 15 minutes, Willa declared it “so cringy,” leaving her mother surprised by the reaction.

“I was like, ‘Oh, I thought you might like it,’” Russell said, noting that her daughter was unexpectedly put off by her portrayal of a college student. This playful exchange highlights the generational differences in how shows are perceived and reflects the evolving landscape of television content over the last two decades.

Reflecting on her family life, Russell, who shares a daughter, Willa, 11, and a son, River, 15, with ex-husband Shane Deary, as well as a six-year-old son, Sam, with partner Matthew Rhys, often draws inspiration from her experiences as a parent. Despite the challenges of balancing a career and family, the actress openly acknowledges the joy her children bring to her life.

The nostalgia surrounding “Felicity” is not just limited to Russell’s personal reflections; the series has sparked renewed interest among audiences who remember the show fondly. As it becomes accessible once more, many are revisiting the story of Felicity Porter, exploring themes of youthful ambition and the complexities of relationships, making it relevant even to today’s viewers.

As the iconic series continues to find new audiences on platforms like Netflix, Keri Russell’s insights reaffirm the show’s place in television history. Fans are encouraged to celebrate the series and its memorable moments, while Russell relishes in the impact of a role that changed her life and career trajectory. Whether viewed through the lens of nostalgia or as a fresh discovery, “Felicity” remains a significant part of the television landscape, capturing the essence of youthful exploration and love.