Exploring the Impact of Jess Chanliau in Netflix’s The Diplomat
2023 has proven to be an exciting year for fans of political thrillers, especially with Netflix’s hit series The Diplomat. The anticipation for Season 3 is palpable, particularly as we look forward to further developments concerning U.S. Ambassador Kate Wyler, portrayed by Keri Russell, and her husband, Hal Wyler, played by Rufus Sewell. Notably, the addition of Bradley Whitford, known for his role in The West Wing, to the cast is particularly thrilling.
While the show captivates audiences with its complex plotlines, Season 2 brought the heartbreaking loss of beloved character Ronnie Burkhurst, brought to life by the talented Jess Chanliau. As a non-binary performer using they/them pronouns, Chanliau has a rich background that spans both American and French cultures, contributing to their dynamic artistry. Their linguistic abilities in both languages enhance their performance versatility, complementing a strong educational foundation that includes training at prestigious institutions like the Cours Florent theater school and the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland.
Unveiling Jess Chanliau’s Artistic Journey
From Stage to Screen: A Versatile Performer
Chanliau’s career began with an appearance in the short film Play Time in 2008, followed by another short film, Belly of Unbelief, in 2009. Their feature film debut occurred in 2015 with The Riven. That same year, they showcased their theatrical prowess on stage as Mercutio in a production of Romeo and Juliet at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, further proving their adaptability by later playing Viola in Twelfth Night.
In a revealing 2023 interview with Borrowers and Lenders: The Journal of Shakespeare and Appropriation, Chanliau emphasized their personal growth through the character of Viola, stating:
“The production depicted Viola’s journey as a binary one, changing from one gender to another. We never addressed the in-between space. That said, the role of Viola really helped me understand my own gender and expression…”
After their significant Shakespearean roles, Chanliau made a guest appearance in the short-lived Peacock series Brave New World in 2020. They also starred in the independent zombie film Inmate Zero, where they portrayed Stone, an ex-military prisoner amidst a zombie apocalypse. Additionally, their talent was utilized in a motion-capture performance for the 2021 sci-fi video game Chorus.
Ronnie Burkhurst: A Beacon of Hope in The Diplomat
Ronnie: The Idealistic US Embassy Officer
In The Diplomat, Chanliau portrayed Ronnie Buckhurst, a dedicated officer at the U.S. Embassy, recognized for their commitment to idealism. Although the series does not explicitly label their character as non-binary, the representation resonates with audiences. Ronnie serves under Stuart Heyford, the Deputy Chief of Mission, often found engrossed in their work while sporting a stylish bow tie.
Ronnie’s character is unique within the series, as they remain untainted by the political machinations characteristic of their colleagues. Their tragic demise following a bomb in the Season 1 finale left the team reeling, particularly impacting Stuart, who felt the weight of responsibility.
During a discussion on the YouTube channel Traversing the Stars, Chanliau interpreted Ronnie’s character as:
“I think Ronnie is really reliable… and they’re precise. I think Ronnie wants to proceed in their job and continuously show that they can problem-solve…”
The Future for Jess Chanliau
Awaiting New Horizons in Acting
Chanliau’s role in The Diplomat has undoubtedly opened new doors, yet there have been no confirmed upcoming projects since their character’s departure from the series. When asked about future roles on Traversing the Stars, they were intentionally vague, possibly due to contractual obligations surrounding Season 2’s details.
Expressing desires for future endeavors, Chanliau mentioned, “I would love to be in a sci-fi or some kind of fun, queer road trip movie or something like that.” Their passion for diverse projects is commendable, and as an avid sci-fi enthusiast, I also hope to see Jess Chanliau featured in prominent franchises like Star Trek or Star Wars. The anticipation for their next venture is certainly palpable.