The Residence: Uncovering Secrets Behind Every Door

The Residence is a Netflix mystery-drama series from Shondaland that reimagines the iconic White House as the backdrop for a sprawling murder mystery. Inspired by Kate Andersen Brower’s nonfiction book, the show follows eccentric detective Cordelia Cupp (Uzo Aduba) as she investigates a murder uncovered during a chaotic state dinner, navigating a labyrinth of 132 rooms and 157 suspects among the residence’s diverse staff. Developed by Paul William Davies—with Shonda Rhimes and Betsy Beers as executive producers—and directed in its initial episodes by Liza Johnson, the series faced significant production challenges including labor disputes and the recasting of a pivotal role after Andre Braugher’s untimely death.

Table of Contents

Introduction

The Residence is a bold reimagining of the White House as a sprawling labyrinth of secrets and intrigue, setting the stage for a riveting murder mystery. The series follows the unconventional detective Cordelia Cupp (Uzo Aduba), whose sharp wit and unique perspective—bolstered by an unexpected passion for birdwatching—drive her to unravel a perplexing case that erupts during a chaotic state dinner. Developed by Paul William Davies and produced under the Shondaland banner with executive producers Shonda Rhimes and Betsy Beers, the show melds political drama, dark humor, and suspense into an intricately layered narrative.

Main cast

Matt Czuchry as Dr. Conrad Hawkins
A brilliant yet unconventional senior resident, Conrad is known for his compassion and defiance of hospital bureaucracy. His journey often reflects the challenges of balancing clinical expertise with an empathetic approach to patient care.

Emily VanCamp as Nicolette Nevin
A sharp and resourceful clinician, Nicolette brings determination and a nuanced understanding of hospital dynamics. Her complex persona adds both emotional depth and strategic insight to the team.

Manish Dayal as Dr. Devon Pravesh
As one of the promising newer members of the medical staff, Devon’s fresh perspective and dedication to modern medical practices help bridge the gap between traditional methods and innovative care.

Shaunette Renée Wilson as Dr. Mina Okafor
An assertive and skilled physician, Mina is pivotal in challenging the status quo. Her expertise and unyielding commitment to her patients make her a respected figure in the hospital.

Tasso Feldman as Dr. Irving Feldman
A seasoned doctor with years of experience, Irving serves as a steadying influence in a fast-paced environment, often offering wisdom and guidance to younger colleagues.

Bruce Greenwood as Dr. Randolph Bell
As a senior authority in the hospital, Dr. Bell’s authoritative presence and decision-making prowess underscore the administrative challenges and ethical dilemmas of modern healthcare.

Jane Leeves as Kit Voss
Kit provides critical support on the administrative front, ensuring that the hospital’s day-to-day operations run smoothly while also offering a pragmatic perspective on patient care.

Malcolm-Jamal Warner as Dr. AJ Austin
With a blend of charisma and medical acumen, AJ is known for his innovative treatment approaches and his ability to connect with both patients and colleagues on a personal level.

Jessica Lucas as Billie Sutton
Billie’s role—marked by a blend of empathy and clinical efficiency—complements the team’s dynamic, often taking on challenging cases with a determined spirit.

Anuja Joshi as Dottoressa Leela Devi
Bringing both cultural insight and technical expertise, Leela represents the modern, global perspective in medicine, navigating complex cases with thoughtful care.

Denitra Isler as Nurse Ellen Hundley
A veteran nurse known for her warm demeanor and keen intuition, Ellen is the backbone of patient support and often acts as the first line of compassionate care.

Jessica Miesel as Jessica Moore
Jessica adds energy and a fresh outlook to the team, contributing significantly to patient interactions and behind-the-scenes coordination.

Andrew McCarthy as Dr. Ian Sullivan
As a seasoned physician, Ian offers a mix of clinical expertise and mentorship, guiding less experienced colleagues through difficult decisions.

Morris Chestnut as Barrett Cain
Barrett brings a dynamic mix of clinical prowess and leadership, often stepping up to manage high-pressure situations with confidence.

Kaley Ronayne as Dottoressa Cade Sullivan
A forward-thinking doctor, Cade is known for her innovative approaches and commitment to integrating new medical technologies into everyday practice.

Jenna Dewan as Julian Booth
Julian’s role, though unconventional in a medical setting, bridges creative problem-solving with compassionate patient care, offering a unique perspective on healing.

Melina Kanakaredes as Dr. Lane Hunter
Dr. Hunter’s expertise and calm under pressure make her an essential figure in critical care, consistently advocating for patient-centered treatment.

Aneesha Joshi as Padma Devi
Padma provides cultural depth and clinical skill, ensuring that diverse patient needs are met with sensitivity and professionalism.

Ana Mackenzie
(Role details to be defined; contributes to the supporting ensemble in key operational areas.)

Stephen Wallem as Winston Robards
Winston’s character adds administrative insight and a measured approach to hospital management and policy.

Conrad Ricamora as Jake Wong
Jake’s analytical mind and technical expertise serve as vital assets in diagnosing complex cases and managing the hospital’s operational challenges.

Merrin Dungey as Claire Thorpe
Claire’s role involves high-level oversight and strategic decision-making, ensuring that the hospital’s standards of care remain uncompromised.

Glenn Morshower as Marshall Winthrop
A stalwart in the administrative hierarchy, Marshall’s experience and leadership help maintain stability in tumultuous times.

Tasie Lawrence as Priya Nair
Priya brings energy and dedication to her role, providing exceptional support in both clinical and patient liaison capacities.

Patrick Walker as Micah Stevens
Micah’s role emphasizes the blend of clinical expertise with a personal touch, making him a key contributor to patient outcomes.

Rob Yang as Logan Kim
Logan is instrumental in leveraging modern medical technology, ensuring efficient diagnosis and treatment processes.

Moran Atias as Renata Morali
Renata’s nuanced approach to medicine and patient interaction helps bridge gaps in care, enhancing overall team synergy.

Corbin Bernsen as Kyle Nevin
Kyle adds a familial dynamic to the team, often intertwining personal and professional relationships that enrich the narrative.

Violett Beane as Lily Kendall
Lily, with her fresh outlook and commitment to learning, represents the next generation of compassionate healthcare providers.

Ian Gregg as Mason Buck
Mason’s role as a dedicated resident reflects the challenges of early career medicine, marked by both determination and growth.

Brian George as Tejan Pravesh
As a character connected to Dr. Devon Pravesh, Tejan provides familial context and support within the high-pressure medical environment.

Monica Garcia Bradley as Riley Jackson
Riley’s compassionate nature and attention to detail enhance patient care and team collaboration.

Kathleen Wilhoite as Claudia Webb
Claudia’s extensive experience and nurturing personality make her a cornerstone of both patient care and team morale.

Lana Young as Dr. Mary Osder
Dr. Osder is a respected clinician whose insights and patient-first philosophy contribute significantly to the hospital’s mission.

Erinn Westbrook as Adaku Eze
Adaku’s role emphasizes resilience and innovation, often stepping up in critical moments to provide exceptional care.

Ramses Jimenez as Felix
Felix plays a key supporting role that enriches the interpersonal dynamics of the hospital setting.

Emily Althaus
(Role details to be defined; part of the broader ensemble supporting the core narrative.)

Joshua Brady as Aaron Holt
Aaron’s character brings depth to the team’s interactions, providing both clinical and emotional support.

Matt Battaglia as Bill Landry
Bill is known for his pragmatic approach and experience, contributing to key decision-making processes in patient management.

Boo Arnold as Mr. Alderwood
Mr. Alderwood’s character adds a touch of seasoned wisdom, often providing unconventional yet effective solutions.

Deke Anderson as Paul Robinson
Paul’s role complements the narrative with his expertise and steady presence in the background of hospital operations.

Dakin Matthews as Howie Green
Howie provides essential support in challenging scenarios, known for his reliability and thoughtful approach.

Jenny O’Hara as Shirley Harris
Shirley’s warm, nurturing presence supports both patients and staff, embodying the human side of healthcare.

Chrystee Pharris as Allie Palmer
Allie’s character adds energy and optimism to the ensemble, often bridging the gap between clinical precision and compassionate care.

Remington Blaire Evans as Gigi Hawkins
Gigi brings a personal dimension to the story, deepening the familial and emotional connections of the central narrative.

Jonathan Lipnicki as Remy Necco
Remy’s role, though youthful, provides a fresh perspective that underscores the evolving nature of modern medicine.

Miles Gaston Villanueva as Dr. Alec Shaw
Dr. Shaw is a dedicated clinician whose expertise and commitment are central to high-stakes medical cases.

Miles Fowler as Trevor Daniels
Trevor represents the resilience and learning curve of a budding medical professional navigating a complex environment.

David Alan Grier as Lamar Broome
With his characteristic humor and gravitas, Lamar brings a unique blend of wit and wisdom to his role in the hospital.

Jocko Sims as Ben Wilmot
Ben’s dependable nature and strong work ethic make him a valued member of the team in high-pressure situations.

Jennifer Landon
(Role details to be defined; part of the ensemble contributing to the series’ rich, multifaceted narrative.

Production Details

• Development:
  The Residence Announced on July 20, 2018, as part of a nine-figure deal between Netflix and Shondaland, the series was adapted from Kate Andersen Brower’s book. It was later revealed (March 7, 2022) that the show would span eight one-hour episodes with Paul William Davies—known for his work on Scandal—serving as creator, executive producer, and showrunner. Shonda Rhimes and Betsy Beers also join as executive producers.
• Directorial Role:
  Liza Johnson was tapped on February 27, 2023, to direct the first four episodes, setting the tone for the series.
• Filming & Challenges:
  Filming began after receiving significant tax credits from the California Film Office. However, production faced setbacks during the 2023 Hollywood labor disputes, pausing work after four episodes had been shot. In a major twist, Andre Braugher—originally cast as the White House chief usher—died on December 11, 2023, leading to a recast where Giancarlo Esposito took over the role. Production resumed in February 2024.

Trailer Highlights

The Residence official trailer introduces viewers to a chaotic state dinner gone awry, setting up the murder mystery:

• Setting & Tone: The White House is reimagined as a maze with 132 rooms, each hiding potential clues.
• Key Moments: A body is found amid a disastrous state dinner, and detective Cordelia Cupp is seen using her unique observational skills (including birdwatching) to piece together the mystery.
• Humor & Suspense: The trailer balances sharp wit and tension, hinting at both the absurdity and the gravitas of the unfolding scandal.

Key Themes

• Murder Mystery & Intrigue: At its core, the series is a whodunnit that challenges viewers to solve the puzzle behind the murder.
• Political and Social Dynamics: It explores the complex interplay between the President, his staff, and the hidden world behind the public façade of the White House.
• Humor Amid Chaos: Despite the serious subject matter, the show is imbued with a quirky, offbeat humor reminiscent of a classic screwball comedy.
• Identity and Observation: Cordelia’s unique method—her keen observational skills, partly honed by birdwatching—serves as a metaphor for noticing the details that others overlook.

Overall Review & Critical Reception

The Residence Early critical previews and industry chatter have praised The Residence for its inventive take on the murder mystery genre. Critics highlight:

• Engaging Storytelling: A cleverly layered narrative that rewards attentive viewers with nuanced character backstories.
• Stellar Performances: Uzo Aduba’s portrayal of Cordelia Cupp has been described as both captivating and refreshingly original, with strong support from a diverse ensemble.
• Visual and Tonal Distinction: The series is noted for its distinctive visual style that sets it apart from other White House dramas, combining the grandeur of its setting with an eccentric, almost theatrical presentation.

Fan anticipation is high, with audiences eagerly discussing the series on social media, drawing parallels to classic whodunnits and celebrating the fresh energy that Shondaland productions are known for.

Challenges and Environments

The production of The Residence has not been without hurdles:

• Labor Disputes: The 2023 Hollywood strikes halted production mid-way, delaying progress.
• Cast Changes: The untimely death of Andre Braugher necessitated a quick and sensitive recast, with Giancarlo Esposito stepping into the role.
• Political Backdrop: The series’ production and release come at a time of heightened political sensitivity, adding layers of public and media scrutiny.
• Complex Set Environment: Filming inside the White House-inspired mansion—with its 132 rooms and elaborate corridors—required innovative set design and choreography to convey the building’s labyrinthine nature.

Fan Anticipation and Critical Reception

• Fan Buzz: Social media is abuzz with anticipation. Fans appreciate the unique blend of humor, mystery, and political intrigue, and are particularly excited by Uzo Aduba’s dynamic performance.
• Industry Praise: Early reviews note the series’ fresh narrative approach and visually arresting style, positioning it as a standout entry in Netflix’s 2025 slate.
• Comparative Edge: While it shares DNA with previous Shondaland hits like Scandal, The Residence is recognized for its original spin—eschewing traditional political drama for a more off-kilter, witty investigation.

Visual Style

The Residence series features a visually inventive style:

• Set Design: Grand, intricately detailed interiors of the White House serve as a character in themselves, with 132 rooms offering both opulence and mystery.
• Cinematic Tone: A blend of high drama and comedic absurdity is achieved through careful lighting, color palettes, and dynamic camera work that mirror the unpredictability of the unfolding mystery.
• Costuming & Production Design: The wardrobe and set pieces reflect the formal yet quirky world of the presidential residence, balancing traditional elegance with unexpected modern twists.

Director Introduction

• Liza Johnson is at the helm for the first four episodes. Known for her meticulous approach and ability to capture nuanced performances, Johnson’s direction is expected to establish the series’ unique tone—merging the gravitas of a political thriller with the playful eccentricity of a modern whodunnit.
• Paul William Davies serves as the showrunner, ensuring that every narrative thread is woven with precision. His background on Scandal informs a storytelling style that is both character-driven and visually compelling.

Release Date

The Residence is scheduled to premiere globally on Netflix on March 20, 2025. This highly anticipated debut is set to draw viewers into its richly layered mystery and unique exploration of the inner workings of the White House.

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THE RESIDENCE OFFICIAL TRAILER NETFLIX