Shonda Rhimes' latest collaboration with Netflix, "The Residence," a murder mystery incidentally set in the White House, captivates audiences with its intriguing premise and an ensemble cast that includes Uzo Aduba, Giancarlo Esposito, and Kylie Minogue. Streaming since March 20, 2025, this eight-episode miniseries delivers a blend of laughter and suspense, reminiscent of Agatha Christie’s timeless classics.
The series commences following a lavish state dinner at the White House, where guests soon find themselves embroiled in a mystery surrounding the murder of the chief usher, A.B. Wynter. As the evening unfolds into chaos, Cordelia Cupp, played by Uzo Aduba, takes on the mantle of detective, tasked with untangling a web of secrets amidst 132 rooms and 157 suspects. Critics have hailed this premise as both entertaining and chaotic, setting the stage for a modern whodunnit infused with humor and wit.
Reviews have painted a mixed picture of "The Residence." Critics from The Guardian scored it 4 out of 5, calling the series “a very happy experience all round – moreish, bingeable.” They highlighted Aduba's magnetic presence, noting that “this is not television that is going to change the world, but it is going to give you eight hours of fantastic escape.” Conversely, USA Today was less favorable, giving it 2 out of 4, labeling the series as “not an abject failure,” but far from being a standout like Rhimes’ earlier hits such as Bridgerton or Grey’s Anatomy.
Indeed, Rhimes' track record makes her return with "The Residence" feel momentous. Her previous works have garnered a dedicated fan base, raising viewer expectations. But how does "The Residence" measure up against her illustrious background? The Telegraph praised Uzo Aduba's deadpan humor as she navigates her detective role, describing her performance as “a total hoot” while suggesting that other cast members lessen the pace of the show.
On the creative side, production designer François Audouy noted the significant challenge of recreating the White House. Filming took place at Raleigh Studios in Los Angeles, representing the famous structure almost in its entirety, achieving a stunningly authentic environment with only about 5% visual effects used. Audouy remarked that he had the unique opportunity to reimagine the White House’s interior design, which included creating elaborate sets featuring 150,000 pounds of flooring and 200 doors.
The intricacies of the production are noteworthy, incorporating real historical anecdotes tied to the residence itself, enriching the narrative with layers that extend beyond a mere murder mystery. As an example, the series mentions Jackie Kennedy's decision to renovate guest rooms, showcasing the connection between fictional storytelling and real-life historical events, adding depth to the characters’ motivations.
Moreover, as stated by The Times, this eight-hour endeavor might be a bit exhausting, describing it as “one long game of White House Cluedo.” Yet, it cleverly navigates various themes of politics and identity wrapped in comedic commentary, making it both fun and lighthearted. The positive reception of the show lies in its full embrace of a modern, inclusive narrative featuring a gay president, showcasing the evolving landscape of television storytelling.
The reception of "The Residence" underscores the ongoing discourse surrounding representation in media. As highlighted in various critiques, despite some reservations regarding pacing and character dynamics, the series remains an entertaining escapade into a world where drama and comedy intersect. Uzo Aduba’s Cordelia Cupp has been praised for her vibrant portrayal of a quirky detective, sustaining viewer interest as she unravels the mystery.
In summary, "The Residence" encapsulates the charm and wit synonymous with Rhimes’ productions, effectively appealing to audiences eager for a mix of mystery, humor, and a contemporary cast of characters. Even with its critiques, the show promises to keep viewers glued to their screens with its twists and turns, making it a compelling weekend watch.
As the series continues to gain traction among audiences and streamers alike, there’s no denying that Shonda Rhimes has once again tapped into the cultural zeitgeist, inviting fans to delve into a delightfully chaotic and engaging narrative within the walls of one of America’s most iconic buildings.
