Get ready for a thrilling reunion as Bradley Whitford and Allison Janney, the dynamic duo from "The West Wing," reunite on Netflix's political drama, "The Diplomat." But this time, there's a twist! Whitford plays Todd Penn, the husband of Janney's newly elected U.S. President Grace Penn, and their on-screen chemistry adds a whole new layer of depth to their characters.
Janney reveals, "Grace and Todd have a solid foundation as a couple, much like Brad and I. Our shared history brings a unique comfortability to our roles, making their connection even more believable."
However, Todd's journey as the new "First Lady" is far from easy. He's openly grumpy about his new role, yet deeply protective of his wife's ascent to power. Showrunner Debora Cahn describes Todd's complex emotions: "He loves Grace and wants to support her, but finds the process incredibly painful. He keeps it all bottled up, hiding his emotions beneath his jawline."
Whitford, an exceptional actor, relishes the opportunity to portray Todd's inner turmoil. He says, "Debora expertly explores the male ego, and Todd is the perfect vessel for these emotions. He's a mix of protectiveness, jealousy, and a desire to save his wife."
But here's where it gets intriguing: we know very little about Todd's backstory. Is he a political figure like his wife? Whitford teases, "We'll uncover Todd's past. He was once a biology professor, and now his career is on hold. He's accustomed to certain circles but wasn't prepared for the whirlwind he's been drawn into."
So, what do you think? Will Todd embrace his new role or struggle to adapt? Join the conversation in the comments and share your thoughts on what you hope to see in Season 3 of "The Diplomat." Don't miss this captivating reunion and the complex dynamics it brings!