“The Diplomat” Season 2 Screening: Keri Russell on Winning Over the Obamas, and Working with Allison Janney
On October 19, 2024, Netflix hosted an exclusive advance screening of the highly anticipated second season of The Diplomat at the Crosby Street Hotel in New York City. Attendees were given a first look at the premiere episode before the official release on October 31. The screening was followed by a lively and insightful Q&A with the show’s creator, Debora Cahn, and cast members Keri Russell, Rufus Sewell, Ato Essandoh, Ali Ahn, and David Gyasi.
Even the Obamas Are Watching: The Global Appeal of The Diplomat
During the Q&A, showrunner Debora Cahn shared a delightful revelation: The Diplomat has captured the attention of some very high-profile viewers. “The Obamas have watched it,” Cahn said with a smile. “Perhaps the best moment of my life was learning that.” Knowing that Barack and Michelle are among the show’s fans underscores its universal appeal and the sharp, engaging storytelling that has hooked audiences.
Keri Russell, who stars as U.S. Ambassador Kate Wyler, chimed in with a surprise of her own. “Barack did know the show,” she said.
Keri Russell on the Joy of TV: “It’s My Favorite Kind of Work!”
Russell’s enthusiasm for her role was palpable throughout the discussion, especially when she talked about the unique experience of working on streaming TV series compared to films. “The gift of this moment that we’re in with TV… used to be that we all had to do 22 episodes, which is very different than doing 8 to 10 episodes where you get to really hone in and focus on those storytelling aspects,” she explained. “You get to have this moment where it’s not just a two-hour movie… you get to expand this story like a good book, and these characters get to unravel in this slower, more delicious way. It’s my favorite kind of work!”
Russell’s passion extends well beyond the current season. “We are now working on Season 3, and I don’t even want to talk about Season 2. Season 3 is just so good! It’s so good! It just gets richer and richer, and that’s the gift of doing this new version of TV. It’s such a fun place to work creatively.”
Grateful and Thriving: Russell Reflects on Her Career High
The discussion took a more personal turn when Russell reflected on her experience landing the role of Kate Wyler later in her career. “My big underlying thought of it all is that I’m so grateful. At this point in my life I just feel like… there was this time 20 years ago where someone almost 50 who’s an actress wasn’t supposed to be looking for new great things, and I feel like I’m having the time of my life! I’m just beyond grateful.”
It’s this genuine enthusiasm and depth of character that has made Russell’s portrayal of Kate Wyler so compelling, earning her both Emmy and Golden Globe nominations for the role.
Allison Janney Joins Season 2: Serious Scenes, and Some Fun Too
One of the most exciting new additions to The Diplomat for Season 2 is Academy Award winner Allison Janney, who plays Vice President Grace Penn. Russell shared some behind-the-scenes moments of working alongside Janney, and it’s clear the two had a blast. “She’s everything you’d want her to be. I was so nervous when she came. She’s just the best and great, and we ended up doing debate scenes and hardcore yelling at each other,” Russell recounted.
But despite the intense scenes, there were plenty of lighter moments. “Then her going, ‘You know, remember that dance the kids did called the floss, how does that go again?’ And we start doing the floss with each other in the middle of this serious thing,” Russell laughed. It’s clear that even amid the drama, there’s a sense of playfulness on set, adding to the show’s dynamic energy.
What’s in Store for Season 2: Intrigue, Betrayal, and High Stakes
If you were on the edge of your seat at the end of Season 1, get ready for more twists. Season 2 picks up right where the explosive finale left off, with Kate Wyler reeling from the revelation that the British Prime Minister orchestrated a deadly attack. “Now, she has to prove it,” Cahn explained, setting up what promises to be a season full of political intrigue and personal turmoil. As Kate dives deeper into the scandal, she’ll find herself questioning who she can trust, with stakes that are higher than ever.
And the anticipation doesn’t stop there—Netflix has already renewed the show for a third season. “Season 3 flips the chessboard. Kate lives the particular nightmare that is getting what you want,” teased Cahn, hinting at even more complex drama on the horizon.
Ready for More The Diplomat? Season 2 Arrives October 31
The excitement for The Diplomat continues to build as we approach the release of Season 2 on October 31. With six new episodes and new characters that add even more depth to the storyline, fans can expect to be hooked once again by the sharp, twisty drama and exceptional performances. With production already underway for Season 3, it’s clear that The Diplomat is just getting started, and viewers are in for a thrilling ride.
If you haven’t already, now’s the perfect time to catch up on Season 1—and join the Obamas in counting down the days until The Diplomat returns!
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