New York, N.Y. — Netflix has expanded its repertoire of original content with the release of “The Residence,” a murder mystery series set against the backdrop of the White House. Premiering on March 20, 2025, the show offers viewers a blend of suspense, drama, and subtle humor.

Plot Overview

“The Residence” transports audiences into the intricate world of the White House staff, where a state dinner culminates in the murder of Chief Usher A.B. Wynter, portrayed by Giancarlo Esposito. With 157 potential suspects among the residence’s personnel, the narrative centers on Detective Cordelia Cupp, played by Uzo Aduba, as she navigates the complexities of the investigation.

The series delves into the personal and professional lives of the staff, revealing hidden secrets and motives that keep viewers guessing until the end.  

Cast and Characters

The ensemble cast brings depth to the series, with notable performances including:
    •    Uzo Aduba as Detective Cordelia Cupp: An eccentric investigator renowned for solving complex cases.
    •    Giancarlo Esposito as A.B. Wynter: The esteemed Chief Usher whose untimely death sparks the central mystery.
    •    Randall Park as FBI Agent Edwin Park: Cupp’s partner, providing a balance of wit and seriousness.
    •    Susan Kelechi Watson as Jasmine Haney: A senior staff member with intricate ties to the residence’s operations.
    •    Ken Marino as Brian Castillo: A charismatic staffer with a penchant for bending rules.

Additionally, the series features appearances by Jane Curtin, Jason Lee, and Kylie Minogue, who plays herself, adding a touch of real-world glamour to the storyline.

Production Insights

Developed by Shondaland’s Paul William Davies, known for his work on “Scandal” and “For the People,” “The Residence” is inspired by Kate Andersen Brower’s book, “The Residence: Inside the Private World of the White House.”

The series offers a fictional narrative that provides a unique perspective on the lives of those working behind the scenes in one of the world’s most iconic buildings.

The production team undertook the ambitious task of recreating the White House interiors. Filming took place at Raleigh Studios in Los Angeles, where approximately 150,000 pounds of flooring and 200 doors were utilized to construct the sets.

Handmade wallpapers, including a replica of the 18th-century bear wallpaper from the Diplomatic Reception Room, were crafted to enhance authenticity. Notably, 95% of the scenes were filmed on these meticulously designed sets, with minimal reliance on visual effects.  

Critical Reception

Upon its release, “The Residence” garnered generally favorable reviews. Rotten Tomatoes reported an 81% approval rating, with critics praising Aduba’s portrayal of Detective Cupp as bringing a “welcome level of sophistication” to the series. Metacritic assigned a score of 66 out of 100, indicating positive feedback from the critic community.  

Viewer Engagement

Early audience reactions have been positive, with many viewers expressing enthusiasm for the show’s unique setting and intricate plot. The combination of a high-stakes environment and a classic whodunit format has resonated with subscribers, positioning “The Residence” as a potential standout in Netflix’s 2025 lineup.

Future Prospects

While Netflix has yet to announce a second season, creator Paul William Davies has expressed interest in continuing the narrative. In an interview, Davies mentioned having ideas for future seasons, potentially exploring new mysteries that Detective Cupp and Agent Park could tackle, possibly even beyond the confines of the White House.  

“The Residence” offers a fresh take on the murder mystery genre by situating it within the iconic halls of the White House. With strong performances, detailed production design, and an engaging storyline, the series stands as a testament to Netflix’s commitment to delivering diverse and compelling content to its global audience.

Netflix Unveils ‘The Residence’: A Whodunit Set in the White House (March 20, 2025)

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Tags: The Residence, Uzo Aduba, Shondaland, Murder Mystery, Streaming Series,
White House, Paul William Davies, Giancarlo Esposito, Randall Park