How accurate is the depiction of the ambassador’s residence? Is there something that you think the show or set design does “better” than the actual residence? Is there something that you know the residence does much better?
Winfield House, the residence of the U.S. Ambassador in London, manages to be both cozy and regal at the same time. I spend a lot of time in the large garden, a private section of Regent’s Park, with my dog Bear. It’s my haven after long days in technical briefings or negotiations. A few people have admitted to me they were disappointed that Winfield’s entry drive is not as grand as Wrotham Park, the mansion where they film The Diplomat. No long walk up to the manor. No horse-drawn carriages. No grand staircase.
Still, Winfield House is an important space for building relationships between Americans and Britons. Recent months have seen us host high-profile American executives to encourage two-way investment between our countries, British members of parliament to welcome the new cohort following a general election in the U.K., and a group of talented international artists for the London Frieze art fair. That’s cultural diplomacy in action: bringing people together and finding areas for cooperation.
One crucial thing the show gets right about Winfield House is the dedication of the staff. They make sure every guest, from the president of the United States to a young musician, is treated with respect and care.
The Diplomat. (L to R) Keri Russell as Kate Wyler, Rufus Sewell as Hal Wyler in episode 202 of The Diplomat. Cr. Courtesy of Netflix © 2024COURTESY OF NETFLIX
