14 Best Shows Like The Diplomat

Over two seasons, the Netflix original series “The Diplomat” has captivated viewers with its compelling narrative centered around Kate Wyler (Keri Russell), a seasoned diplomat thrust into a fresh role due to a worldwide emergency. In her new position as American ambassador to the United Kingdom, Wyler is tasked with mitigating international conflicts following an assault on a British vessel in the Persian Gulf. Simultaneously, she’s grappling with marital issues with Hal Wyler (Rufus Sewell), another career politician who was previously the U.S. ambassador to Lebanon.

Drawing from actual occurrences, “The Diplomat” portrays the captivating political maneuverings that frequently unfold on the world stage as various nations and their representatives compete for the upper hand in every crisis. If you’ve been fascinated by the politics within the Wylers’ sphere, you might be interested in exploring other shows in this genre. To assist you in broadening your horizons, we’ve compiled a list of top-notch series similar to “The Diplomat” for you to explore until the third season arrives.

Secret City

Based in and centered around the continent known as “down under,” the series “Secret City” transports viewers into the heart of Canberra’s political drama and scandal. Starring Anna Torv, famously known for her role in “Fringe,” the show follows Harriet Dunkley, a journalist who accidentally uncovers a conspiracy that may reach the highest echelons of power. In parallel with current events, the series subtly depicts escalating tensions between East and West, with Australia finding itself caught in the crossfire of American and Chinese geopolitical maneuvering. However, as Dunkley will soon discover, her latest news story and international politics may be intertwined more intricately — and perilously — than she ever thought possible.

Similar to “The Diplomat,” the show “Secret City” features a prominent female character as its lead in a suspenseful political storyline. The Australian series offers a blend of dramatic intensity and exciting espionage scenes that make it distinctively different yet appealing to fans of “The Diplomat.” Moreover, with only twelve episodes spread across two seasons, starting “Secret City” is not a significant commitment for viewers.

The West Wing

Under the guidance of showrunner Debora Cahn, “The Diplomat” has become one of the standout political thrillers in recent years. However, it isn’t her first foray into helping shape a beloved TV series with a political theme; just with a unique and distinct twist. Making its debut in 1999, “The West Wing” delved deeply into the happenings within the White House, portrayed by Martin Sheen as the commander-in-chief, along with the intricate political maneuvers in Washington D.C. and beyond. Add a generous dose of high-profile scandals and assassination attempts to create a drama that captured public attention for months, and you’ve got one of the most captivating TV shows ever produced.

In contemporary television series that explore politics, it’s almost expected to have the drama cranked up high. Shows like “The West Wing,” despite having intense moments, seem somewhat traditional today due to its relatively realistic premise and subtle humor. However, the skillful direction by showrunner Aaron Sorkin, exceptional acting from the talented cast, and writing from figures such as Cahn make “The West Wing” a must-see for enthusiasts of political thrillers.

Bodyguard

Following his deployment abroad to Afghanistan’s battlefields, ex-Scottish soldier David Budd (Richard Madden) carries on his service-oriented career, shifting from police duties to assuming a prestigious role as the bodyguard for a senior government figure, Home Secretary Julia Montague of the United Kingdom (Keeley Hawes). Plagued by memories of combat, Budd finds no peace in his new line of work, as dangerous assassination attempts are simply par for the course. However, unraveling a secretive conspiracy with profound consequences is beyond his job description.

Bodyguard” offers the pulse-pounding excitement expected from top-tier action shows, but what sets it apart are its thoughtful underlying themes. The complex dynamic between Budd and his political charge is one of the show’s most captivating elements. Their views on government surveillance contrast starkly – Montague advocates for expanded powers while Budd vehemently opposes such measures. Moreover, Budd’s job, already demanding, becomes even more challenging as he grapples with psychological scars from war. Originally airing in 2018 over six episodes, “Bodyguard” packs a powerful punch and is a must-watch for fans of “The Diplomat“, especially those craving a bit more action-packed content.

Designated Survivor

In a devastating terrorist attack, Washington D.C.’s core is struck, resulting in the elimination of the entire presidential succession line and both houses of Congress. The only surviving individual is Thomas Kirkland, who holds the position of Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (played by Kiefer Sutherland). A political newcomer, Kirkland unexpectedly ascends to the presidency amidst the deadliest attack on American soil ever recorded in the nation’s history.

Similarly to Kate Wyler’s character in “The Diplomat,” Kirkland is compelled to establish precarious partnerships and let go of past enmities as he strives to unite the nation. Initially finding himself under-prepared and swamped by responsibilities, Kirkland encounters a baptism-by-fire situation as he strategizes for combating adversaries on a global scale. However, he also confronts adversaries within his own ranks, including political opponents and high-ranking military officials who question his capability to manage the crisis and who seek his removal from office, believing it would be beneficial in the long run.

Enthusiastic about demonstrating his abilities, Kirkland emerges as an underdog hero that one can readily cheer for, and the series’ thrilling plot keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. A fitting continuation of Kiefer’s “24,” “Designated Survivor” aired for three seasons before Netflix revived it following its cancellation by ABC in 2018.

House of Cards

Despite its premature conclusion due to Kevin Spacey’s controversy, “House of Cards” remains one of the greatest political thrillers ever broadcast on television. As a Netflix original, it holds a unique place as the first scripted drama produced for a major streaming platform. It could be said that without its success, we may not have witnessed the emergence of Amazon, Hulu, or Disney+ creating their own streaming series.

The television series “House of Cards,” modeled after a British program and derived from its namesake novel, revolves around Frank Underwood (Spacey), an American politician known for his ruthless tactics, including deceit and maneuvering to ascend the political ladder. Accompanying him on this journey is his wife, Claire Underwood (Robin Wright Penn), who proves instrumental to his campaign and eventually becomes a crucial component of one of the most formidable and relentless power couples in the nation. After Spacey’s departure from the show, she emerges as its main character.

Featuring a powerful ensemble starring Kate Mara, Mahershala Ali, and Rachel Brosnahan, “House of Cards” is masterfully crafted drama brimming with surprises and turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end. Rich in political symbolism, it targets the flawed American political system, staying fresh and pertinent, perhaps even more so today than when it debuted initially.

Pearson

In “Pearson,” Gina Torres takes the lead role and delves into a new chapter for her character Jessica Pearson, who was previously a dedicated lawyer on “Suits.” Now, rather than focusing solely on law, Jessica turns her attention to politics, providing an intriguing look at what transpires after she departs from her legal career. The series commences post-disbarment and follows Jessica as she relocates to Chicago, where she becomes part of the mayor’s office.

Having left her prominent position as a lawyer at one of New York’s top law firms, Pearson is now embarking on a new journey in politics, starting from the ground up. Her unwavering sense of justice remains just as potent, but this time she has the opportunity to make a difference on a national level. However, success comes with challenges, and she finds herself grappling with her own moral compass as she navigates the murky waters of politics. This world is even more corrupt than the legal profession, requiring her to navigate carefully among underhanded dealmakers and relentless adversaries. Although the show was only aired for one season and didn’t garner the same level of viewership as its predecessor, “Suits,” it may prove to be just as compelling, if not more so, with a darker tone and stories that delve deeply into the complex issues plaguing our nation.

Madam Secretary

In this series titled “Madam Secretary,” Téa Leoni plays Elizabeth McCord, a character who finds herself thrust into the role of Secretary of State following a surprising turn of events. Prior to this, she had built a career in the CIA as an analyst. The unexpected shift occurs when the previous Secretary of State dies under questionable circumstances, leaving Elizabeth to navigate the complexities of diplomacy and politics in her new position.

Initially reluctant, McCord is thrust into a position she wasn’t prepared for during the early seasons of the series. Despite this, she is resolute about mastering her new role. This involves managing global crises and handling foreign policy matters, and she has no qualms about breaking rules to accomplish her goals, regardless of the potential repercussions. Over time, McCord not only gains the admiration of government officials but also the public at large. In the fifth season, she decides to run for president, culminating in an unexpected twist in the show’s final year as she is elected “Madam President.

While “Madam Secretary” may not offer groundbreaking content, it’s Tea Leoni’s captivating performance that truly shines, similar to Keri Russell’s in “The Diplomat.” Her commanding role and outstanding acting skills contribute significantly to the series’ success. Interestingly, the show has garnered enough recognition in Washington to secure appearances from real-life political figures such as Hillary Clinton, Colin Powell, and Madeleine Albright.

The Good Wife

If you’re looking for a series similar to “The Diplomat” with a twist, I recommend checking out “The Good Wife.” Starring Julianna Margulies, who was also known for her role in “ER,” this series combines political intrigue from Netflix shows and adds a legal drama element. In the show, Margules plays Alicia Florrick, a former attorney who returns to work in the courtroom after her husband, the U.S. District Attorney of Illinois (Chris Noth), falls from grace. Having been a stay-at-home mom for almost two decades, Alicia must navigate the challenges of reentering the legal profession.

Over a span of seven exceptional seasons, “The Good Wife” follows Alicia as she grapples with juggling her professional life as a lawyer for a prominent firm and her personal responsibilities as a family head. Julianna Margulies shares the screen with an outstanding ensemble cast, including Christine Baranski, Alan Cumming, Matthew Goode, and Jeffrey Dean Morgan, all of whom play significant characters in this series. A ratings sensation, “The Good Wife” served as the birthplace for one of CBS All Access’ initial original streaming productions, the equally powerful spin-off, “The Good Fight,” which enjoyed its own successful tenure on what is now Paramount+.

Two outstanding political television series, “The Good Wife” and its offshoot, offer a unique perspective and are must-sees for fans of the genre – these captivating courtroom dramas deserve your attention.

The Regime

In a satirical take on contemporary politics similar to “The Diplomat,” HBO presents “The Regime.” This series critically examines the surge of authoritarianism in the 21st century. The story unfolds in a fictional European country, where Kate Winslet’s character, Chancellor Elena Vernham, maintains a firm grip on power. However, as her nation encounters mounting turmoil from external and internal sources, Vernham becomes increasingly suspicious and unsure of whom she can rely upon.

As she feels uneasy with those around her, the Chancellor seeks guidance from a recently appointed aide, Herbert Zubak (Matthias Schoenaerts). However, as their connection strengthens and their relationship evolves, Zubak transitions beyond just an advisor to the Chancellor and gains significant influence over her.

The Regime,” while often labeled as a dramatic tale of palace intrigue, is more accurately described as a clever satire with elements reminiscent of Shakespearean plays. It’s not just about politics; it’s a biting critique that borders on comedy, exposing the dangers and absurdities of governments riddled with flaws, teetering on the brink of collapse due to the influence of unstable leaders who crave power above all else.

Gaslit

Gaslit”, a series that might surprise you as being adapted from a podcast, offers something unique yet remains engaging for fans of “The Diplomat“. This eight-episode show, broadcast on Starz in 2022, is also inspired by real-life events. It portrays an extraordinary true tale about Martha Mitchell, a significant figure within the Nixon White House who, although less renowned, played a crucial but understated role in the Watergate scandal.

As a dedicated gamer immersed in the world of historical dramas, I find myself cast as Martha Mitchell, the spirited wife of John N. Mitchell, a man who served as the US Attorney General under President Richard Nixon. John was deeply entangled in Nixon’s secretive plot to spy on his political opponents during the 1972 re-election campaign, and the story revolves around my husband’s frantic — and illegal — attempts to silence me when the scandal came to light. Known for my loose lips and my affinity for sharing information with the press, I become a central figure in this captivating series that unravels the dark truth behind one of America’s most infamous political scandals.

Gaslit” is an intriguing blend of real-life crime stories, historical reenactments, and suspenseful political tales. This captivating series boasts a stellar ensemble, with Clive Owen portraying Bill Clinton, Beanie Feldstein stepping into the role of Monica Lewinsky, Edie Falco playing Hillary Clinton, and Shea Wigham bringing G. Gordon Liddy to life – a notorious burglar who aspired to be a spy.

Total Control

In another part of the globe, there’s a drama known as “Total Control” that amplifies the political intrigue from “The Diplomat” while setting it in Australia. This Australian-based series focuses on Alex Irving (played by Deborah Mailman), an indigenous woman residing in Queensland who gains national attention following her brave actions during a tense confrontation with an armed assailant. Not long after, the Prime Minister, Rachel Anderson (portrayed by Rachel Griffiths), surprisingly bestows upon Irving a seat in the country’s senate.

The Prime Minister isn’t merely inspired by Irving’s strong personality and commitment to justice; rather, Anderson is a cunning politician who leverages the public’s admiration for Irving for her personal gain. By keeping Irving close and subtly manipulating her as a tool for her own purposes, Anderson exploits Irving in her own political strategy. “Total Control” is a compelling tale that sheds light on the indigenous fight and governmental corruption, particularly their tendency to exploit minority groups for power. This series offers a gripping insight into the intricacies of Australian politics.

The Honourable Woman

Migrating from Australia to the United Kingdom, the British thriller “The Honourable Woman” features American actress Maggie Gyllenhaal portraying Nessa Stein, a Jewish businesswoman who heads a prominent corporation with a reputation for charitable work. Due to her commitment towards noble causes, the UK government bestows upon Stein the honorary title of “life peer,” which secures her a place in the House of Lords and designates her as Lady Stein.

One of the Stein Group’s recent philanthropic endeavors involves linking the historically troubled West Bank region of Palestine with contemporary fiber optic lines as part of an essential infrastructure development project. Samir Meshal, a Palestinian engineer heading a local firm, is collaborating on this venture with Stein. However, when Meshal meets an untimely and mysterious death, Stein must pause the project. As MI6 enters the picture, suspicions arise about whether someone aims to disrupt the project to maintain the West Bank in darkness, while potentially explosive secrets from Stein’s past could surface.

Borgen

If you liked “The Diplomat” and don’t mind shows with subtitles, consider giving “Borgen” a try. This Danish series shares the same creators as “The Killing.” The story revolves around Birgitte Nyborg Christensen (played by Sidse Babett Knudsen), a clever and energetic politician who lacks political experience. As you follow her journey, she moves from a low-level bureaucrat position to ascending to the highest office in her country’s government.

Reframing the statement in a conversational and engaging manner: “Borgen”, in a nutshell, is a methodically unfolding political drama that makes you think deeply about power, politics, and global affairs. It’s not your typical heart-pounding thriller but it definitely keeps you on the edge of your seat with its nail-biting suspense. For those who are passionate about politics, “Borgen” offers an intriguing exploration of scheming machinations, courtroom battles over oil fields and business interests that could reshape Denmark. If you’re well-versed in global affairs, it becomes even more captivating. The stellar cast, which includes Lars Mikkelsen from “Sherlock”, is a significant factor contributing to its success.

One delightful aspect of watching “Borgen” now is that you can watch all its seasons consecutively, as they were produced over more than a decade but initially aired separately. This makes for a smooth and uninterrupted viewing experience.

Scandal

As a devoted admirer, if you’ve exhausted all episodes of “The West Wing” and are seeking another captivating series to immerse yourself in, I wholeheartedly suggest “Scandal.” Much like “The Diplomat,” this show might just be its equal in terms of quality. Spanning over seven seasons, it promises a substantial binge-watching experience.

Created by the prolific Shonda Rhimes, who’s also responsible for hit shows such as “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Private Practice,” “Bridgerton,” and more recently, “Inventing Anna,” “Scandal” is a testament to her storytelling prowess. Starring Keri Washington, this political drama will keep you on the edge of your seat!

In a different phrasing: Washington is portrayed as Olivia Pope, an influential figure within the political circles of DC, known for her exceptional problem-solving skills, often referred to as a ‘fixer’. She heads up Olivia Pope & Associates, a firm that has provided services to high-ranking individuals across the nation, including the President himself (Tony Goldwyn). The team handles a variety of challenging situations such as international crises, terrorism, assassination attempts, and even public scandals. They must constantly anticipate their clients’ needs to stay ahead in their fast-paced world.

Instead of the formal “The Diplomat,” consider the more engaging “Washington’s Star.” While “Scandal” might not rival a prime-time soap opera or a Netflix series in terms of overall appeal, it still attracts a significant audience. Her captivating portrayal of Olivia Pope earned her an iconic role, yet surprisingly, she did not receive an Emmy for her performance.

2025-04-13 23:34