Former US ambassador Samantha Power has praised Netflix’s The Diplomat for its portrayal of diplomatic life, saying the series captures aspects of the profession despite its fictional storylines. Power joined actress Keri Russell and showrunner Debora Cahn for a discussion at Harvard Kennedy School about the show’s relationship with real-world diplomacy.
Now in its fourth season, the series stars Russell as Kate Wyler, a career diplomat unexpectedly appointed US ambassador to the United Kingdom. Although the position initially appears largely ceremonial, Wyler soon finds herself at the centre of major international crises and political disputes.
The character draws inspiration from several real-life diplomats, including Power, who served as US ambassador to the United Nations and later led the US Agency for International Development during the Obama and Biden administrations.
Cahn said Power’s 2019 memoir, The Education of an Idealist, provided material for some of the show’s dialogue and storylines. One episode was inspired by an anecdote in which Power followed then-President Barack Obama into a men’s bathroom while continuing to press him on recognition of the Armenian genocide.
Cahn said the incident illustrated the determination required in diplomatic work, particularly the persistence needed to keep pressing difficult issues despite repeated setbacks.
Power acknowledged similarities between herself and Wyler, pointing to the character’s restless energy, fast pace and tendency to become so focused on a task that she overlooks her surroundings. She also joked about the character’s dishevelled appearance, saying she had considered issuing a statement to clarify that she does, in fact, wear deodorant.
Diplomatic disagreements and decision-making
Beyond its dramatic storylines, Power said the series offers a useful portrayal of the disagreements and ethical debates that shape foreign policy decisions.
She argued that encouraging dissent and building coalitions are essential to effective leadership, even when disagreements create tension within an organisation. According to Power, leaders who welcome different perspectives are more likely to reach sound decisions.
Cahn described the series as a tribute to foreign service officers and USAID employees, whose work often goes unnoticed despite its importance. She said the production draws on regular consultations with former diplomats and other professionals to ensure that its fictional stories remain grounded in authentic experiences.
Russell said the appeal of the series lies in showing the people behind international decision-making and exploring how their demanding work affects their personal lives and relationships.
The show has frequently been compared with The West Wing for its fast-paced political dialogue and focus on the inner workings of government. Cahn previously worked on both The West Wing and Homeland.
The discussion also touched on the changing atmosphere among current and former US public servants. Cahn said she had recently encountered renewed optimism among people committed to public service and the promotion of democracy internationally.
Netflix has yet to confirm whether The Diplomat will return for a fifth season, although Cahn suggested there could be more stories to tell.
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