Get ready for a dramatic twist in the world of political thrillers! Bradley Whitford is back in the White House, but this time, he’s not the one calling the shots. In Season 3 of Netflix’s The Diplomat, debuting this Thursday, Whitford reunites with his West Wing co-star Allison Janney, but their dynamic is anything but familiar. This time, Whitford steps into the shoes of Todd Penn, the husband of newly appointed U.S. President Grace Penn, played by Janney. And here’s where it gets intriguing: Todd is anything but thrilled about his new role as the ‘First Lady,’ cheekily introducing himself as such in the season premiere. But don’t let his grumpy demeanor fool you—he’s fiercely protective of his wife, even if he’s absolutely terrible at showing it.
But here’s where it gets controversial: Is Todd’s struggle to support Grace a reflection of outdated gender roles, or is it a deeper commentary on the challenges of standing beside a powerful leader? Showrunner Debora Cahn hints at the former, noting that Todd’s discomfort is ‘devastatingly painful’ and worn like a badge of honor—or rather, a clenched jaw. Keri Russell, who plays Kate Wyler, sums it up perfectly: ‘He wants to support her, he just doesn’t know how.’
Janney and Whitford’s real-life chemistry, honed over years of working together, adds a layer of authenticity to their on-screen marriage. ‘We have a lot of baked-in history,’ Janney explains, ‘which brings a real comfortability to our performances.’ Whitford relishes the complexity of Todd, a character torn between his protective instincts and his own insecurities. ‘Debora is brilliant at skewering the male ego,’ he says, ‘and Todd is the perfect vessel for that.’
And this is the part most people miss: Todd’s backstory is shrouded in mystery. Was he always a political outsider, or did he leave a career behind to stand by Grace? Whitford teases that Todd was once a biology professor, now sidelined by his wife’s ascent. ‘I’m used to these circles,’ he admits, ‘but I didn’t anticipate the whirlwind—or the sacrifices.’
As Season 3 unfolds, one question lingers: Can Todd find his place in this new world, or will his grumpiness and jealousy get the better of him? Press PLAY above to hear more from Whitford and the Diplomat cast, and let us know in the comments: Do you think Todd’s struggles are relatable, or is he just another example of a man struggling to keep up with a powerful woman? Is his character a step forward or a step back in portraying modern relationships? Weigh in below—the debate is just getting started!
