The Diplomat’s Allison Janney reveals the importance of playing a female US president

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The first season of The Diplomat concluded with a shocking twist: President Rayburn collapsed and died during a phone call with Hal Wyler, right after discovering troubling information about his second-in-command, Vice President Grace Penn.

With Allison Janney now playing the President, things likely won’t be easy for Keri Russell’s character, Kate, who previously competed with her for the Vice Presidency.

When asked if Grace was prepared to be president, Janney stated that she absolutely was. As Vice President, people are already generally comfortable with her and understand she’s capable of stepping into the role if needed, like in this situation.

I’m truly honored to take on this position, particularly because the U.S. hasn’t yet elected a female president. It highlights the challenges women continue to encounter in politics, and I’m really enjoying this opportunity.

In season 3, we also get to meet Todd Penn, Grace’s husband and the new First Gentleman on the US.

Bradley Whitford, who previously worked with Janney on The West Wing, plays Todd and shared how he felt when he was offered the role.

I first learned about the project, possibly last summer. I was filming in Budapest when the showrunner, Debora Cahn, texted me to see if I’d be interested in the role. It was for Allison’s husband on a show I already enjoyed, and I was incredibly excited.

I always enjoy working with Allison, and it’s especially fun to draw on our long, unique history together now.

You can watch the third season of The Diplomat on Netflix. The first two seasons are already available, and a Netflix subscription starts at just £5.99 per month. You can also access Netflix through Sky Glass and Virgin Media Stream.

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2025-10-14 18:19