20/22

The UK has rarely allowed filming in the Foreign Secretary’s office

Scenario

In the midst of an international crisis, career diplomat Kate Wyler takes an unlikely, high-profile job that has geographic implications for her marriage and political future. The producers, the American & British government, allowed them to use real locations as filming locations for the series, including the newest American embassy (at Nine Elms), which opened in 2018. Credit goes to any film or screen production, especially an American one. One location that was not available was Winfield House, the real-life residence of the American ambassador.

Season 1 ended on a giant cliffhanger

Although it was accurately described as occupying the largest residential plot of land in London (11 acres) other than Buckingham Palace, the producers used a country house outside the city for filming. The film was featured at the 75th Primetime Emmy Awards (2024)) Oh My God! I had a heart attack in the last few minutes of Season 2. I don’t know if my heart will last a third season.

Boy was I wrong

At first I thought it was a very important, slow-burn political drama. Maybe a different kind of feel-good TV show, like Madam Secretary. Every episode, The Diplomat keeps you on the edge of your seat. You’re hungry for them like a starving animal.

Why did I love The Americans?

This is political theater at its best. It cut throats beyond my wildest dreams. And it’s still a wild ride, even if it’s only 1/10th of what actually happens in American politics and the various agencies (CIA, Secret Service, Diplomacy). Keri Russell once again plays a strong female lead, which reminded me how much I love her performance. She’s great!