If you loved the gripping political drama and sharp dialogue of 'The Diplomat' (2023), you're in for a treat! This article explores 10 similar movies and TV shows that deliver the same mix of high-stakes intrigue, complex characters, and diplomatic maneuvering. Whether you're a fan of political thrillers or character-driven narratives, these recommendations will keep you hooked.

The West Wing (1999)
Description: A series that provides an inside look at the workings of the White House, focusing on the personal and professional lives of the staff, with a strong emphasis on political strategy and international relations.
Fact: The show was praised for its fast-paced, walk-and-talk dialogue style, which became one of its signature elements. It won multiple Emmy Awards during its run.


The Good Wife (2009)
Description: A legal and political drama that follows a woman rebuilding her career and life after a public scandal involving her husband, a former state's attorney, blending courtroom drama with political maneuvering.
Fact: The show was known for its strong female lead and its realistic portrayal of legal and political issues. It spawned a spin-off series, 'The Good Fight.'


Homeland (2011)
Description: A tense thriller that revolves around a CIA officer dealing with terrorism, espionage, and the psychological toll of her work, with a strong focus on international relations and security.
Fact: The show was based on an Israeli series called 'Prisoners of War.' It won multiple Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Drama Series.


Scandal (2012)
Description: A political thriller that explores the high-pressure world of crisis management, where the protagonist deals with scandals, political intrigue, and power struggles in Washington, D.C.
Fact: The show was created by Shonda Rhimes and was one of the first network dramas to feature a Black woman as the lead. It popularized the term 'gladiator' for the protagonist's team.


House of Cards (2013)
Description: A political drama that delves into the ruthless world of power, manipulation, and diplomacy, showcasing the intricate and often dark strategies employed by those in high-stakes government positions.
Fact: The show was one of Netflix's first major original series and helped establish the platform as a serious content producer. It was adapted from a British series of the same name.


The Newsroom (2012)
Description: A drama that takes viewers behind the scenes of a cable news network, focusing on the ethical dilemmas, political pressures, and personal conflicts faced by journalists and producers.
Fact: The show was created by Aaron Sorkin, known for his sharp, dialogue-driven storytelling. It often incorporated real-life news events into its episodes.


The Americans (2013)
Description: A Cold War-era drama about two Soviet spies living undercover as an American couple, blending espionage, political tension, and personal drama in a high-stakes environment.
Fact: The show was praised for its historical accuracy and attention to detail. It was loosely inspired by real-life Russian sleeper agents uncovered in the U.S. in


Madam Secretary (2014)
Description: Centers on a former CIA analyst who becomes the Secretary of State, navigating complex international crises and balancing her professional duties with personal life, highlighting the challenges of diplomacy.
Fact: The show was inspired by the real-life experiences of former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright. It often incorporated current global events into its storylines.


Designated Survivor (2016)
Description: A political thriller about a lower-level cabinet member who suddenly becomes President after a catastrophic attack, dealing with national security, diplomacy, and the challenges of leadership.
Fact: The concept of a 'designated survivor' is a real-life protocol in the U.S. government. The show was initially developed by ABC but later moved to Netflix for its final season.


24 (2001)
Description: A high-octane thriller that follows a counterterrorism agent as he races against the clock to prevent attacks, with each season unfolding in real-time, emphasizing urgency and political stakes.
Fact: The show was groundbreaking for its real-time format, with each episode representing one hour of a single day. It popularized the use of split-screen techniques to show simultaneous events.
