Martin Freeman, 55, makes first appearance with wife Rachel Benaissa, 32, following secret wedding news

Almost one week after news of his secret wedding, British actor Martin Freeman has stepped out alongside his new wife, fellow actress and writer, Rachel Benaissa.

The newlyweds attended the Derren Brown: Only Human gala performance at the Apollo Theatre on Thursday evening. 

Dressed for the autumn weather, Rachel, 32, looked cosy in a colourful chunky knitted jumper, which she teamed with deep blue barrel-leg jeans and black heeled boots, slicking her brunette tresses back into a bun.

Meanwhile, her new husband, 55, wrapped up in a grey coat and a letterbox red scarf, over which he wore a blue linen shirt and navy trousers. 

Martin and Rachel tie the knot 

A spokesperson confirmed the news that the couple had tied the knot last week after Martin was seen wearing a gold wedding band on his finger while attending the red carpet at the BFI London Film Festival, promoting Andrew Haigh's new drama film, A Long Winter. 

In addition, French writer Rachel showcased her dazzling engagement ring, which was accompanied by a wedding band.

Their secret wedding came six years after they began dating in 2020. 

While the duo are seen together at public events, including at the red carpet premiere of Agatha Christie's Seven Dials in January and the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in July, they like to keep their personal lives away from the spotlight.

Before finding love with Rachel, Sherlock star Martin was in a relationship with actress Amanda Abbington for 16 years before they split in 2016. They share daughter Grace, 21, and son Joe, 18.

Rachel, who has appeared in the BBC's Normal People and This Way Up, has formed a close bond with his children.

Last year, talking on the Table Manners podcast, Martin offered insight into his relationship with Rachel, revealing they share a love of cooking.

"She's not a Cordon Bleu. She's a massive cheese and wine [expletive]," Martin revealed. "That's what she would say about herself. She says that about herself, 'I'm a cheese and wine [expletive].' It's not all she is, but no, she loves all that stuff. We like cooking."