Hollywood couple Dax Shepard and Kristen Bell have once again proven they’re not your average celebrity pair. This time, Shepard has shocked fans and fellow celebrities alike with his unconventional way of celebrating his wife’s first Emmy nomination.
On July 15, 2025, Bell received her first-ever Primetime Emmy nomination for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series for her role as Joanne in Netflix’s hit show “Nobody Wants This.” But instead of flowers or a heartfelt Instagram tribute, Shepard had something else in mind.
The Shocking Instagram Post
Shepard took to Instagram on July 16 to share what he called a “behind the scenes” look at Bell’s Emmy-nominated performance. The photo showed Bell doing a variation of the downward dog yoga pose in their backyard—completely nude except for a pair of bright blue knee-high socks.
The image, taken from behind, featured Bell with one leg raised in the air. Shepard added a small red square to censor her buttocks, though the photo still left little to the imagination.
His caption read: “People might not know everything that happens behind the scenes in order to create an Emmy nominated performance like Kristen’s. This may or may not have been a part of her training, but it felt right. CONGRATULATIONS!!!!”
Celebrity Reactions Pour In
The post immediately went viral, garnering reactions from Hollywood’s elite and fans alike. Here are some of the most notable responses:
• Gwyneth Paltrow simply wrote: “Oh my God, Dax.”
• Nina Dobrev enthusiastically commented: “Hahahaha yesssss go girl! Suns out buns out for that Emmy!!!”
• Mae Whitman praised Bell’s form: “Incredible form.”
• Mary Steenburgen thanked Shepard for the “gift”
• Rachel Bilson responded with a string of heart emojis
Fan Reactions: Mixed but Mostly Amused
While some fans were shocked by the NSFW post, many found humor in Shepard’s unconventional celebration method. The comments section became a mix of congratulations and comedy:
• One fan joked: “She’s not naked people… she CLEARLY has socks on! God forbid a girl have a hobby.”
• Another quipped: “When you want to feel free, but your toes still aren’t ready for that level of commitment.”
• A concerned fan wrote: “If Dax doesn’t post in a few days, we know she choked him for this.”
• One commenter called it the “Most sentimental tribute ever posted by a proud husband!!!”
• Another cleverly noted: “Downward facing Emmy nomineeeee!”
Not His First Time
This isn’t the first time Shepard has shared this particular photo of Bell. The couple, who have been married since 2013 and together for 17 years, are known for their candid and often unconventional social media presence.
Previously, Shepard had shared a similar image to celebrate Mother’s Day, writing: “My girls and I hit the MegaMom Lottery in spectacular fashion. We are so grateful and so in love with you @kristenanniebell.”
Bell’s Emmy-Nominated Role
“Nobody Wants This” has been a massive hit for Netflix, earning three Emmy nominations total. The show follows Bell’s character Joanne, a sex-positive podcast host, who unexpectedly falls for a rabbi named Noah, played by Adam Brody.
The series has been praised for its sharp writing and the undeniable chemistry between Bell and Brody. In fact, the on-screen romance has been so convincing that even Shepard admitted to being swept up in it.
During a panel at the 2024 New York Film Festival, Shepard joked: “My best friend, Aaron, from childhood, he goes, ‘Does she ever kiss you like that?’ No, I didn’t even know she could kiss like that.”
Bell’s Reaction to the Nomination
While Shepard chose an unconventional celebration method, Bell shared her own excitement on Instagram with a more traditional approach. She posted a carousel of images showing her and series creator Erin Foster on a Zoom call with their mouths open in excitement.
“Finding out I was nominated for an Emmy,” Bell captioned the post. “Finding out @erinfoster was nominated for an Emmy!!!!”
Shepard showed his support in the comments of Bell’s post as well, writing: “May you only listen to ‘Strut’ by Steven Seagal all day long. You’ve earned it!!!!”
A Hollywood Love Story
Bell and Shepard’s relationship has always been refreshingly honest and unconventional by Hollywood standards. The couple, who share daughters Lincoln (11) and Delta (9), have been open about their relationship struggles and triumphs.
Their willingness to share both the good and the challenging aspects of their marriage has endeared them to fans who appreciate their authenticity. This latest Instagram post is just another example of their unique dynamic.
The Bottom Line
While Shepard’s nude photo tribute may have raised eyebrows, it perfectly encapsulates the couple’s playful and unconventional approach to their relationship. Bell’s Emmy nomination marks a significant milestone in her career, and Shepard’s celebration—however shocking—shows his pride in his wife’s achievement.
As one fan perfectly summarized: “Most would buy flowers, but Dax Shepard isn’t your average husband.” And clearly, Kristen Bell wouldn’t have it any other way.
The 2025 Emmy Awards will air later this year, where we’ll find out if Bell takes home her first Emmy statue. Until then, fans can continue enjoying “Nobody Wants This” on Netflix and following the entertaining social media antics of one of Hollywood’s most beloved couples.
