Kerri Russell On 'The Diplomat'/ Remembering Dorothy Allison
Nov 15, 2024
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Kerri Russell, known for her roles in 'Felicity' and 'The Americans', discusses her character in the Netflix political drama 'The Diplomat', highlighting the intense stakes and character dynamics. She shares insights from her early days on 'The Mickey Mouse Club', illustrating the challenges of growing up in the spotlight. The podcast also pays tribute to Dorothy Allison, whose poignant novel 'Bastard Out of Carolina' confronts childhood trauma and abuse, reflecting on her courageous journey toward healing and empowerment through literature.
Keri Russell's portrayal of Kate Weiler in The Diplomat showcases the intense pressures diplomats face amidst personal and political crises.
The podcast also reflects on Dorothy Allison's impactful life and writing, emphasizing her personal experiences shaping her literary voice.
Deep dives
The Diplomat's Intrigue
The second season of the Netflix series The Diplomat features Keri Russell as Kate Weiler, a Foreign Service officer known for her adept handling of international crises. The show revolves around Weiler's investigation into a terrorist attack on a British aircraft carrier, insinuating high-level political intrigue, including suspicion that the British Prime Minister could be involved. The cliffhanger from the previous season set the stage for a gripping narrative as Weiler navigates her husband's injury and the complex web of diplomatic and personal challenges that arise. This mix of political drama and personal stakes illustrates the intense pressure faced by diplomats operating within a backdrop of treachery and danger.
Keri Russell's Journey in Acting
Keri Russell's career began as a teenager on The All-New Mickey Mouse Club, where she worked alongside future stars like Ryan Gosling and Britney Spears. This early experience laid the groundwork for her roles in significant series such as Felicity and The Americans, where she received widespread acclaim for her performances. In the podcast, Russell reflects on being unexpectedly pitched for The Diplomat and how the script's blend of political intrigue and relatable moments captivated her interest. This highlights her ability to resonate with complex characters and storylines that balance personal dilemmas with broader political themes.
The Impact of Celebrity and Public Life
The podcast delves into Russell's ambivalence toward the public aspects of being a prominent actress, particularly when it comes to high-profile events and award shows. She draws a parallel between the ceremonial obligations of her character, Kate Weiler, as a diplomat and her own experiences at glamorous but often uncomfortable public functions. Russell expresses a desire to focus on the substantial work behind the scenes rather than endure the superficial pressures associated with fame. This candid reflection underscores the challenges faced by actors as they navigate personal comfort while fulfilling public expectations.
Reflections on The Americans
Russell's portrayal of Elizabeth Jennings in The Americans is acknowledged as one of her signature roles, emphasizing the complexity of her character as a Soviet spy ingrained in American life. Through the exploration of Jennings' relationships, particularly with her daughter Paige, the show presents a nuanced view of loyalty and betrayal in the context of espionage. Russell discusses how the narrative intricately unfolds the familial and ethical conflicts stemming from a life built on deception, capturing the struggles of a mother trying to reconcile her duty with her love for her children. This highlights the series' ability to bridge the personal and the political, making it a standout in contemporary television.
Kerri Russell stars in the Netflix political drama The Diplomat as a foreign service officer tapped to become the American ambassador to the UK. Russell also starred in the series Felicity and The Americans. She spoke with us last year about these characters and getting her start on The AllNew Mickey Mouse Club as a kid.
Also, we remember author Dorothy Allison, who died this week at age 75. Her critically acclaimed 1992 novel Bastard out of Carolina was based on her own childhood experience of being physically and sexually abused. We listen back to Terry's interview with Allison about the book and her life.