Bradley Whitford recently spoke about his role in the new season of The Diplomat on Netflix. He also shared insights into reuniting with his West Wing co-star, Allison Janney. Whitford discussed the complex marriage between their characters, the First Couple of the United States. He explained how their shared history helped shape the show’s dynamic.
Bradley Whitford on his character in The Diplomat Season 3 and dynamic with Allison Janney
Speaking on Live with Kelly and Mark, Whitford jokingly called his character Todd “the first lady,” and noted that the couple’s marriage “seems complicated.” He explained that Todd “loves [his wife on the show] and is protective of her,” adding that he enjoyed portraying the tension between affection and frustration in the relationship.
In his interview with Radio Times, Whitford said he was “beyond thrilled” when showrunner Debora Cahn offered him the role opposite Janney, calling it “an exquisite privilege” to work with her again. Tal
Janney, who plays President Grace Penn, told TVLine that their real-life history from The West Wing added “a certain real comfortability” to their dynamic. She said that shared experience helped them bring depth to their scenes as a long-married couple navigating political life.
Todd’s new position as the President’s husband puts him in an uneasy spot, with Cahn describing him as someone who “really wants to be supportive” but finds “the actual process of supporting to be so devastatingly painful.”
Keri Russell, who plays Kate Wyler, added that Todd “wants” to support Grace but “is bad at it.” Whitford confirmed that his character’s career as a biology professor has been “put on hold” and hinted that his backstory will be explored further in the season. Despite being “protective” of his wife, Todd is “obviously openly grumpy about being put in this position,” he added.
The Diplomat Season 3 premieres on Netflix on October 16, continuing directly after the Season 2 finale. Janney’s Grace Penn steps into the presidency, while Whitford’s Todd adjusts to his new role as First Gentleman.
Originally reported by Anubhav Chaudhry on ComingSoon.
