Major Character Developments Unfold in ‘The Diplomat’ Season Three

NEW YORK, NY — In the second episode of season three of Netflix‘s political thriller ‘The Diplomat,’ significant shifts in character dynamics have left viewers on edge. Following the unexpected death of President Rayburn, portrayed by Michael McKean, Grace Penn, played by Allison Janney, assumes the presidency, prompting a dramatic reshuffle of key positions.

Kate Wyler, the U.S. ambassador to the U.K., finds herself at a crossroads. After Hal Wyler, her husband and former ambassador, is appointed as vice president instead of her, Kate faces a tough decision as she prepares to leave her diplomatic role for a newly created position back in the U.S. Just as she is about to board the plane with Hal, Kate hesitates, creating a poignant moment filled with unspoken conflict.

Actress Keri Russell, who plays Kate, shared her thoughts on this crucial character moment. “It’s a monumental moment to choose yourself. Women, in particular, don’t often make that choice,” she told The Hollywood Reporter, emphasizing the groundbreaking aspect of her character’s decision.

Russell also compared Kate to her character from another acclaimed series, ‘The Americans,’ stating that her character’s decisions were guided by a sense of self rather than obligation to family. “At this point, Kate decides to choose herself, which is amazing,” she added.

Meanwhile, CIA station chief Eidra Park, played by Ali Ahn, is facing her own challenges, as she suspects she may be facing termination. Russell remarked on the importance of Kate’s decision to focus on her own priorities rather than continuing to follow Hal’s career, stating, “There has been enough of following this guy and his career.”

The tension continues to build in this season, with flashbacks revealing Hal and Kate’s early relationship stages, which Russell described as a contemplative rhythm for the show. “It’s interesting to see how they ended up at this point,” she said.

Russell was excited by the storytelling direction where Kate is passed over for vice president, a move she called “deliciously heartbreaking.” She noted that character struggles, such as losing significant ambitions, contribute to more compelling narratives.

Creators Debora Cahn and Jane Hartley addressed parallels to real-life scenarios where qualified women are overlooked for leadership roles. Cahn acknowledged the tendency to keep Kate in the foreign service as a way to defy typical expectations in a political narrative.

As Kate chooses to step back from her ambitions for the vice presidency, she reflects on her identity and desires. “You rethink the whole thing and what you believe and what you want,” Russell explained.

The unfolding drama promises to explore new dynamics and challenges among the characters as the season progresses. All eight episodes of season three of ‘The Diplomat’ are now available for streaming on Netflix.