Allison Janney Calls Kissing Bradley Whitford Like Kissing Her Brother in ‘The Diplomat’

In a delightful reunion that has fans of both **The West Wing** and **The Diplomat** buzzing, Allison Janney opened up about her on-screen chemistry with Bradley Whitford, likening their kissing scenes to what it might be like “to kiss her brother.” The duo, who shared the screen as close colleagues and on-screen couple in the political drama **The West Wing**, are now reuniting in Netflix’s political thriller **The Diplomat**, much to Janney’s surprise and joy.

Speaking at the Makeup Artists & Hairstylists Guild Awards in February, where she was honored with the Distinguished Artisan Award, Janney expressed her excitement over Whitford’s casting. She stated, “When [showrunner] Debra Cahn said, ‘I’m thinking of… We’re casting your husband, and I want Brad Whitford,’ I just thought it was the best idea ever.” This reunion emphasizes not only their long-time friendship but also the strength of their legacy from **The West Wing**, which won 26 Emmy awards during its run from 1999 to 2006.

Janney, 65, explained the lighter side of shooting love scenes with Whitford, who is also 65, conveying that their long-standing friendship adds a layer of hilarity to their roles in **The Diplomat**. Despite it being a bit awkward, she maintains a positive outlook on working together again. As Vice President Grace Penn—a character introduced in season 2—her arc is poised for further development amid escalating tensions in the plot, as she prepares to potentially become president.

The series follows U.S. Ambassador Kate Wyler, played by Keri Russell, and her husband, Hal Wyler (Rufus Sewell), as they navigate political crises. Janney’s return as Vice President and Whitford’s entry as her husband, Todd Penn, has been well-received by fans, with executive producer Janice Williams referring to him as the “perfect addition” to an already stellar cast. While there’s no official release date for season 3 yet, it’s set to come later in 2024, adding to the anticipation for fans following the cliffhanger of season 2. The first two seasons are currently available for streaming on Netflix, with **The West Wing** offered on Max as nostalgia for those who want to revisit the groundbreaking political drama.

Sources: Celebrity Storm Wire and People Magazine, Tudum, Netflix