In a time of mystery and intrigue, Netflix's latest series, The Residence, captivates audiences with a unique spin on the murder mystery genre. Created by Paul William Davies and produced by Shondaland, the show revolves around an elaborate murder during a state dinner at the White House, where the head usher, A. B. Wynter, is found dead amidst numerous high-profile guests. Shonda Rhimes' latest creation mixes comedy and suspense, offering viewers an engaging narrative that has fans hooked.
All eight episodes of The Residence became available for streaming on Netflix on Thursday, March 20, 2025. The series features a dynamic cast, spearheaded by Uzo Aduba as Detective Cordelia Cupp, who diligently investigates the complex case. Aduba's portrayal brings depth and nuance to the lead role, as she must sift through a plethora of suspects, each with their own motives and alibis.
Supporting Aduba are notable actors including Randall Park as Special Agent Edwin Park, Giancarlo Esposito as the murder victim A. B. Wynter, Susan Kelechi Watson as Jasmine Haney, the assistant head usher, and Ken Marino as Harry Hollinger, the President's chief adviser. Each character adds layers of intrigue to the narrative, as they all find themselves entangled in the web of the investigation.
Interestingly, one notable name mentioned throughout the series is that of Australian actor Hugh Jackman. While Jackman’s presence is felt, it might surprise viewers to learn he does not actually appear on-screen. Instead, Justin Ellis-Johnson portrays a fictionalized version of Jackman as a guest at the state dinner, adding to the bizarre atmosphere of the show. Jackman is referenced multiple times, and his character interacts with the rest of the cast, but his actual face is never shown, only his back end, which creates an intriguing mystery about his character.
Ellis-Johnson's performance, which relegates him to shadows, uses a clever twist where the famed actor is often turned away from the camera, raising curiosity about how much Jackman would enhance the show had he been able to take part in it fully. In a first-person interview, Davies mentioned wanting Jackman to play himself, but other commitments prevented his participation. He shared, “I feel confident that he would have done it if he could have done it, and hopefully he enjoys the whole gag of it.”
Adding to the show's allure, Hugh Jackman's character is surrounded by a circus of vivid personalities. The White House dinner also includes Kylie Minogue, whose presence definitely leaves an impression. According to actress Uzo Aduba, Minogue is “so fierce” and “you can’t miss her.” Minogue not only performs during the dinner—entertaining guests and interacting with Cupp during the investigation—but she also provokes amusing tension by requesting access to her bedroom located precariously close to the crime scene.
The murder mystery unfolds during an evening where dignitaries and celebrities mingle amidst a backdrop of laughter and tension. The pivotal moment occurs when A. B. Wynter, the Chief Usher, is found dead, leading to chaos where Cupp is forced to interrogate each guest. With a myriad of suspects to investigate, the storyline takes unexpected twists, keeping audiences guessing until the very end.
The unexpected twists are complemented by a smart script that maintains a lighthearted tone, striking a balance between humor and seriousness in the face of murder. This mix of comedy and suspense keeps viewers engaged as they navigate the motives behind each character's actions.
Moreover, the tight-knit writing is complemented by outstanding performances from the cast, bringing each character to life—making it hard to tell who might be guilty of the ultimate crime. The show's blend of humor and deep interpersonal relationships shines through, showcasing Rhimes' knack for creating compelling narratives.
As the show progresses, Detective Cupp's struggle to find the truth becomes increasingly riveting. Viewers find themselves invested not only in the murder plot but also in the lives of the characters entwined in this web of deceit. Gradually, the audience meets the various staff members at the White House dinner, including the Executive Chef Marvella, who adds a touch of culinary flair to the evening's drama, yet is not without their own secrets.
From the simple to the complex, The Residence captures the essence of a murder mystery while adding a unique comedic twist that would appeal to both fans of crime stories and those in search of light entertainment. It intersperses humor with serious investigative work as Cupp encounters threats and red herrings throughout her search for justice.
Notably, The Residence also acknowledges the modern-day aspects of White House ineptitude, intermingling darker themes with comedic elements that resonate with audiences seeking an entertaining form of escapism.
Jackman’s shadowy presence throughout the series becomes a running joke as Cupp and her team are often depicted catching glimpses of “the actor” but never fully engaging with him, leading to an ironic twist that enhances the show’s overall imaginative atmosphere.
As viewers dive into the story, they'll appreciate the craftsmanship behind The Residence—from the engaging performances of Uzo Aduba and Randall Park to the brilliantly written dialogue that combines wit with tension. The show offers a spectacular mystery that revolves around the seemingly mundane setting of a state dinner, proving that in such environments, the most unexpected events can unfold.
With The Residence now streaming on Netflix, viewers are encouraged to gather their friends for a thrilling watch full of surprises, laughter, and entertainment. Get ready to delve into a world of culinary miracles and investigative prowess as Detective Cordelia Cupp uncovers the truths hidden behind the walls of the White House.
