In a recent interview, Keri Russell, known for her captivating performances in various T.V. shows and films, opened up about her role in the Netflix original series, The Diplomat. Created by Debora Cahn, known for her work on Homeland and The West Wing, the series follows Kate Wyler (played by Russell), the newly appointed U.S. Ambassador to the United Kingdom. Despite her preference for diffusing international crises, Kate finds herself caught up in complex relationships and the absurdities of politics.
Russell, who is also an executive producer on the series, revealed that this project was too enticing to pass up, despite her initial resistance. The absurdity of politics becomes a central theme in The Diplomat as Kate navigates a job she didn’t seek and is ill-suited for, while also dealing with the unraveling of her marriage. She longs for personal and professional alliances that she can trust during this tumultuous time.
Playing alongside Rufus Sewell, Russell delves into the intricacies of a fascinating and complex couple. The competitive nature of their relationship adds depth and layers to their characters. Russell highlighted a memorable fight scene in episode three that showcases the intensity and passion within their dynamic.
Will there be another season for the show?
When asked about the possibility of another season, Keri Russell expressed her enthusiasm, now fully committed to the series. She also shared her desire to avoid taking on super dark projects in a world filled with enough darkness, indicating her preference for stories that provide a different perspective.
As viewers delve into The Diplomat, they can anticipate a gripping portrayal of politics, complex relationships, and the challenges Kate Wyler faces. Keri Russell’s performance, combined with the creative vision of Debora Cahn, promises an engaging and thought-provoking series.
The mishap that occurred during Keri Russell’s recent interview could be seen as a scene straight out of her new series, “The Diplomat.” In the show, Russell portrays Ambassador Kate Wyler, a competent but somewhat disheveled character in the Foreign Service. Similarly, during the interview, Russell appeared slightly out of breath and with dirt on her face, resembling her character’s predicaments. This resemblance adds a touch of reality to Kate’s portrayal as a relatable and imperfect individual.
Kate Wyler serves as our relatable guide into the world of high-stakes international relations. Initially preparing for a post in Afghanistan, she is unexpectedly reassigned to become the U.S. envoy to the United Kingdom following an anonymous attack on a British vessel. As a career diplomat, Kate is disillusioned by this change and dismisses the perceived superficialities of her new role. She feels like a fish out of water until circumstances take a more dire turn.
When Keri Russell heard the script of the show
According to series creator Debora Cahn, pitching the role to Keri Russell was a long shot. However, Cahn recognized Russell’s exceptional talent for emotional depth, subtlety, nuance, and even physical comedy based on her performances in “Felicity” and “The Americans,” which garnered her three consecutive Emmy nominations. Russell’s ability to infuse humor into her roles was one of the aspects that attracted her to “The Diplomat.”
In an interview, Russell was asked if she responded to the tone of the show. She acknowledged that she wasn’t actively seeking another series after the success of “The Americans” and felt content leaving it on a high note. However, after reading the script for “The Diplomat,” she couldn’t stop thinking about it. The mixture of political drama, the absurdities of politics, the complexities of a competitive marriage, and the challenges of balancing personal and professional aspirations intrigued her. Despite the logistical challenges of shooting in London while juggling personal responsibilities, Russell felt compelled to take on the role against all odds.
Russell’s decision to join “The Diplomat” showcases her dedication to the craft and attraction to compelling and thought-provoking narratives. Her portrayal of Ambassador Kate Wyler promises to be a relatable and multidimensional character who navigates the complexities of both personal and political landscapes. With her range of skills and the depth she brings to her roles, Russell is sure to captivate audiences once again in this intriguing new series.
