The Diplomat on Netflix introduces a fascinating cast of characters. But Austin Dennison might just be one of the most intriguing. Played by David Gyasi, Dennison is the British foreign secretary. He is a calm and composed man amidst all the chaos of international diplomacy. The show, created by Deborah Cahn, has quickly become a favorite for political drama enthusiasts.
The show is about the complex world of diplomatic drama and quiet alliances. It follows the journey of Kate Wyler (played by Keri Russell), who is a reluctant American ambassador to the UK.
Dennison is a pivotal ally for Kate. He helps her figure out a way through the murky waters of global politics. He has also got his hands full with an unpredictable boss, Prime Minister Nicol Trowbridge (Rory Kinnear).
With Season 2 of The Diplomat out on Netflix, fans are buzzing to know more about the man behind the cool, collected exterior.
Disclaimer: The article is speculative and contains spoilers.
The Diplomat: Austin Dennison
Dennison isn’t a typical bureaucrat, as Britain’s foreign secretary, he’s responsible for managing foreign policy and juggling his duties. He also has to try to reign in Prime Minister Trowbridge’s more...let’s say, colorful ideas.
Imagine balancing the demands of a world crisis while also feeling like you’re babysitting a particularly brash leader. That’s Dennison’s daily life. But Dennison’s role goes deeper than simply managing the whims of his boss. He’s someone who values his moral compass and is constantly weighing how his choices affect the public.
As Gyasi puts it in an interview with Esquire, Dennison “remembers where he came from” and feels a duty to not just a single group but all people. He feels like they are all impacted by his decisions.
This unique grounding in his character helps him stay level-headed and cautious. And this is a critical quality when figuring out the ways of the unpredictable world of diplomacy.
Dennison is an ally of Kate Wyler in The Diplomat
The dynamic between Dennison and Kate Wyler is another reason fans are so intrigued by him. Kate is a sharp and occasionally blunt American diplomat. She wasn’t exactly thrilled about her new role in the UK.
But Dennison quickly becomes her unexpected ally in the British government. The two develop a fascinating “will-they-won’t-they” energy throughout Season 1.
Their partnership happens because of their shared duty to manage an international crisis. But that’s not the only reason. It is also due to mutual respect for each other’s dedication and principles.
Viewers wonder if they will ever take their relationship beyond the professional. Well, only time will tell.
David Gyasi talks about his character, Dennison
In interviews, Gyasi has shared that Dennison’s background is key to understanding his approach to his work and his values. In an interview with Esquire, Gyasi shared about his character:
“Dennison is someone who remembers where he came from and remembers the pressures from that area—from what his parents had to go through. That's what makes him such a talented politician. He doesn't support or propose policies that just look out for one section of the community.”
The actor also shared in another interview with Netflix’s Tudum that part of his preparation involved visiting the foreign secretary’s office. There, he realized the vastness of the role, especially considering the historical context of Britain’s colonial past. The foreign secretary had to manage all those countries that were under Britain’s control.
This background has a profound effect on Dennison and the decisions he makes. For Gyasi, this historical awareness helps him play Dennison’s character more fully. It gives him a sense of purpose that adds depth to his on-screen presence.
Also read: Who is Ronnie in The Diplomat? Everything to know about the non-binary character on the Netflix show
Dennison’s struggles with power and morality in The Diplomat
One of the things that make Dennison stand out in The Diplomat is his struggle between loyalty to his government and his moral duty.
Working under a Prime Minister as unpredictable as Trowbridge isn’t easy. Dennison often finds himself questioning his next steps. He’s part of a political system that doesn’t always align with his values. But he feels a duty to push for positive change, even when the odds are against him.
This internal conflict makes Dennison a relatable and sympathetic character. Who hasn’t felt torn between doing what’s right and what’s expected? In a way, he’s the grounded, moral center of the show. This keeps him level-headed even when everyone else is in chaos.
Also read - The Diplomat Season 3: Release details and everything we know so far
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