Debora Cahn: The Voice Behind Your Favorite Political Dramas!

Debora Cahn, the brilliant mind behind the exquisite Netflix show "The Diplomat", is set to unveil the second season TODAY (October 31), a moment that we have been eagerly waiting for. This American drama and political TV series has been very successful since its launch in 2023.

Cahn, an American writer and producer of film and television, is the creative force behind "The Diplomat". But before she was the producer and showrunner of the show, Cahn had a long career in genre-defining political series, beginning as a staff writer on the now-iconic "The West Wing" from the 4th season to the 7th season. "The West Wing" is considered the mother of all political TV shows; created by the well-renowned screenwriter Aaron Sorkin, it premiered in September 1999 and lasted 7 seasons, wracking up a whopping 26 Emmy Awards and 2 Golden Globes. Rolling Stoneranks "The West Wing" at #1 on their list of 20 Best Political TV Shows (as of October 2024). One of the most notable episodes from Debora Cahn’s tenure was the 7th episode of the 7th season, which featured the debate between Matt Santos (Jimmy Smits) and Arnold Vinick (Alan Alda) in their roles as candidates for President of the United States.

Another successful show that Debora Cahn has worked on is "Homeland", where she wrote for its final 2 seasons. "Homeland" is about the life of Carrie Mathison (Claire Danes), a CIA operations officer who has bipolar disorder. 

The shows Cahn has written in the writer’s room and some which she has produced have not just entertained but left a profound impact on the audience. Cahn’s narratives and characters have inspired and resonated with viewers. Her lastest, "The Diplomat" premiered in 2023 and introduced us to Kate Wyler (played by Keri Russell), the new U.S. ambassador to the U.K., as she confronts a personal and professional crisis. The bombing of the British aircraft carrier, the HMS Courageous, resulted in the tragic death of 41 Royal Navy personnel. As the U.S. ambassador to the U.K., Kate must build essential alliances and adapt to intense public examination, which is a weighty pressure that influences all her decisions. Her fellow diplomat and husband, Hal Wyler (Rufus Sewell), was once a source of support. As the show progresses, he becomes a cause of tension.

The first season of "The Diplomat" was well-received by critics, with Rotten Tomatoes giving it an 83% rating and Metacritic awarding the show a 75/100 total rating. The show also received a Golden Globe nomination for Best Drama Series.

"The Diplomat" has changed how we view politics; with a woman as a U.S. ambassadorbeing in charge, Kate Wyler shows us how work is done within the universe of the series.

With "The Diplomat" Season 2 coming out, we are excited by the news that the talented "West Wing" alum Allison Janney will be joining the cast as Vice President Grace Penn. Also, all 6 episodes will be released at the same time. The story will resume from the cliffhanger it left us with to an intriguing plot and compelling storyline. It will definitely keep us hooked to the screen. Plus, filming for Season 3 is already happening!

With the first season, "The Diplomat" has made a place for itself in the world of political dramas thanks to the knowledge and experience of Debora Cahn. We look forward to what she has in store for us next!

"The Diplomat" Season 2 is now streaming on Netflix!