Netflix’s The Residence, initially announced as a drama, will submit itself as a comedy for consideration at the upcoming Emmy Awards, despite its format resembling that of a limited series with a murder mystery storyline. This strategic move comes as no surprise, given the show’s comedic overtones, which echo the style of Hulu’s Only Murders in the Building. Produced by Shondaland, The Residence features a strong comedic twist with Uzo Aduba and Randall Park in the lead roles.
The series joins an interesting trend at this year’s Emmys, as three murder mystery shows are vying for awards in the comedy categories. In addition to Only Murders in the Building, Poker Face on Peacock is also being submitted for comedy, alongside The Residence. Notably, all three series feature a female lead or co-lead. While Only Murders follows a more traditional half-hour format, both Poker Face and The Residence run between 46 and 60 minutes per episode, typically associated with drama series. These shows are often labeled as dramedies, a category that has previously seen winners like Ally McBeal and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel.
Uzo Aduba, known for her Emmy-winning role in Netflix’s Orange Is the New Black, which also competed as a comedy before being reclassified as a drama, finds herself again in a complex position. Aduba’s impressive range allows her to shine in both genres, with her past Emmy victories in comedy and drama highlighting her versatility.
Netflix’s Comedy Lineup Grows Stronger
The decision to submit The Residence as a comedy further intensifies Netflix’s already competitive presence in the Emmy race, as the streaming giant boasts five new comedy series in contention. These include Nobody Wants This by Erin Foster, starring Kristen Bell and Adam Brody, and Man on the Inside by Mike Schur, featuring Ted Danson. Both shows have already garnered recognition from the Golden Globes and the SAG Awards. Also in the mix are Mindy Kaling’s Running Point with Kate Hudson, and Tina Fey’s upcoming The Four Seasons, which will debut later this spring.
The Show’s Creative Vision
The Residence, created by Paul William Davies, who has a background in drama with works such as Scandal, For the People, and Betrayal, is described as a screwball whodunit set within the halls of the White House. The plot follows Cordelia Cupp (Aduba), a quirky, bird-watching detective, as she unravels a murder mystery during a chaotic State Dinner. The series, set within the Executive Residence, showcases a distinctive blend of comedy and mystery, with a colorful ensemble cast that includes Giancarlo Esposito, Edwina Findley, and Jason Lee.
Season 2 Possibilities
As for the future, Paul William Davies has expressed his interest in continuing the story beyond the first season. Should Netflix renew the show, Aduba’s Cordelia Cupp and Park’s FBI agent Edwin Park could embark on further adventures, potentially in new locations. “I really love Cordelia Cupp; I really enjoyed coming up with her and writing her. Uzo is amazing,” Davies shared in a recent interview. “There are lots more stories to tell about her adventures and him with her.”
Aduba and Park are eager to continue exploring their characters’ dynamic. “We talk about that all the time, we would love it,” Park said, noting the fun they had working together. “Paul is so singular in his writing style and in the way he approaches these mysteries that the opportunity to maybe travel to another country and solve another case would be pretty amazing.”
Aduba echoed Park’s sentiments, saying, “I love Cordelia, I love playing her. The adventures and the cases will never stop. She has found an amazing partner and friend in Edwin Park, and I wish nothing more for them to continue solving, exploring, and journeying around the world.”
With a promising first season and potential for a second, The Residence is poised to be a key contender in both comedy and drama categories at this year’s Emmys, reflecting its unique blend of mystery and humor.
Ensemble Cast
Alongside Aduba and Park, The Residence boasts a talented cast, including Giancarlo Esposito, Edwina Findley, Molly Griggs, Jason Lee, Ken Marino, Al Mitchell, Dan Perrault, Bronson Pinchot, Julieth Restrepo, Mel Rodriguez, Susan Kelechi Watson, Isiah Whitlock Jr., Mary Wiseman, and Jean Curtin.
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