MODERN MURDER MYSTERY
- Heart Of Hollywood Team
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
‘The Residence’ on Netflix, a Hilarious Whodunit That’s as Chaotic Off-Screen as On
By Gilda Baum-Lappe & Sandy Rodriguez
Netflix’s The Residence is not just another murder mystery. It’s a sharp, witty, and delightfully chaotic whodunit set inside the White House, with surprises layered throughout both the story and its production. Created by Paul William Davies and directed (for the first four episodes) by Liza Johnson, the eight-episode series centers on a grand state dinner meant to smooth over the U.S.’s rocky relationship with Australia. But instead of diplomatic peace, we get scandal, secrets, and a murder that sends the White House into a spiral of comedic paranoia.
The cast and crew experienced their own rollercoaster. Originally, the role of the Head Usher—the character who anchors the mystery—was written for the late, great Andre Braugher. His sudden passing shocked everyone. But in a poignant and graceful turn, Giancarlo Esposito stepped into the role, infusing it with warmth, humor, and depth, all while honoring Braugher’s legacy.
The show’s cast is stacked with talent having the time of their lives. Uzo Aduba is a standout as Cordelia Cupp, the no-nonsense investigator with a surprising obsession: birdwatching. In between interrogations, she keeps an eye out for rare species through the White House windows, adding a quirky, unexpected layer to her character—and it works. Aduba strikes the perfect balance between serious sleuth and delightful eccentric, making hers one of the series’ most memorable performances.
Then there’s the twist that flips White House storytelling on its head: the U.S. president in The Residence is openly gay, adding texture to the political backdrop. The show never makes it a gimmick. It’s simply part of the world, handled with refreshing, matter-of-fact confidence.
The fun doesn’t stop there. In one of the series’ most meta running gags, Australian superstar Hugh Jackman is repeatedly referenced as the star guest for the Australian state dinner. But Jackman never actually appears. Instead, we get teasing mentions, a tap dance number from someone who is definitely not Hugh Jackman, and a few hilarious shots of body doubles from behind. Rather than feeling like a missed cameo, this becomes a clever wink at the audience, poking fun at celebrity culture and our obsession with star appearances.
And then there’s Kylie Minogue, who starts off as the evening’s entertainment and ends up stealing the show—both in the story and in reality. Initially a cameo, Minogue’s role expanded as she leaned into the comedic madness, becoming an unexpected scene-stealer with musical performances that are equal parts campy and charming. Her joy is infectious, and it’s clear the creators couldn’t resist giving her more to do.
The rest of the cast is just as playful. Randall Park brings his signature deadpan wit as a beleaguered White House staffer who might know more than he lets on. Ken Marino delivers perfect comedic timing as a panicked protocol officer. And Andre Braugher’s spirit is present in every scene Giancarlo Esposito so gracefully inhabits.
The Residence is sharp, silly, and full of heart. It’s a show where birdwatching becomes an investigative tool, diplomacy takes a backseat to absurdity, and off-screen surprises only add to the fun.
Verdict: The Residence is a deliciously funny, modern murder mystery that juggles scandal and pop-culture mischief, and boasts an irresistible cast. Don’t miss it… and keep an eye out for that tap-dancing Hugh Jackman who never quite arrives.
Want to feature your brand in Heart of Hollywood Magazine?
Sign up here: https://forms.gle/nx2e87kdEwFNHPVz9. Let’s make it happen!
Not a subscriber yet? By subscribing to our magazine, you will receive direct access to future issues without needing a coupon. Subscribe now to get a direct link to download the latest issue and enjoy seamless access to all upcoming editions.
Subscribe here: https://www.heartofhollywoodmagazine.com/subscribe