Netflix is about to unleash a thrilling mystery with “The Residence,” premiering March 20, 2025. This new Shondaland production stars Uzo Aduba as detective Cordelia Cupp, who must solve a murder in the most prestigious address in America. Set within the White House’s 132 rooms and featuring 157 suspects, this whodunit promises to combine political intrigue with classic murder mystery elements in a uniquely compelling setting.
The series features an impressive ensemble cast including Giancarlo Esposito and Randall Park alongside Aduba. Created by Paul William Davies, “The Residence” follows Detective Cupp’s investigation after a body is discovered inside the White House. The teaser trailer hints at the show’s blend of tension and intrigue as Aduba’s character works to uncover the truth among the many possible culprits.
“The Residence” marks another high-profile collaboration between Netflix and Shonda Rhimes’ production company, following their successful partnership on several hit series. The murder mystery format combined with the prestigious White House setting offers viewers a fresh take on the detective genre, with the added complexity of political power dynamics at play.
What Is The Residence About?
The Residence takes viewers behind the velvet ropes of the White House, but not in the way you might expect. This isn’t a political drama about presidents and policy. Instead, it’s a murder mystery set in one of the most exclusive and secretive addresses in the world. The story kicks off when a high-profile state dinner ends in murder, and suddenly, the private world of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue becomes the setting for a full-blown criminal investigation.
At the center of it all is Cordelia Cupp, a brilliant yet unconventional detective played by three-time Emmy winner Uzo Aduba. Known for her keen observational skills and an eccentric, no-nonsense approach, Cupp is tasked with peeling back the layers of power and privilege that hide the truth. But as she digs deeper, she finds herself entangled in a web of secrets among the 157 residence staff members—each with their own motives and buried pasts.
This isn’t your typical whodunit. It’s a tightly wound mystery set against the backdrop of American history and power, exploring themes of loyalty, class, and what it really means to serve.
The Cast and Characters
Uzo Aduba headlines the series as Cordelia Cupp, and early buzz suggests this could be one of her most memorable performances yet. She’s surrounded by a stellar ensemble cast bringing life to the complex characters who work behind the scenes at the White House.
- Randall Park plays the White House usher, whose job it is to keep the residence running smoothly while balancing staff tensions and political optics.
- Andre Braugher takes on the role of the White House Chief of Staff, a man under immense pressure who may be hiding more than he lets on.
- Susan Kelechi Watson plays a senior aide who becomes an unexpected ally—or is she another suspect?
- Ken Marino, Jason Lee, and Molly Griggs round out a cast that blends seasoned veterans with fresh faces, each bringing their own intrigue to this high-stakes drama.
Shondaland’s Signature Storytelling
The Residence is brought to life by Shondaland, the creative powerhouse behind Bridgerton, Inventing Anna, and Scandal. Showrunner Paul William Davies, who previously worked on Scandal and For The People, brings a sharp eye for character dynamics and political intrigue. Expect the same razor-sharp dialogue, high emotional stakes, and juicy plot twists that have become Shondaland’s trademark.
But this series also feels like new territory. Where Scandal focused on fixing political disasters and Bridgerton indulged in lavish romance, The Residence is an intense, character-driven mystery. It peels back the carefully curated image of the White House to expose the messiness behind closed doors.
A Setting Unlike Any Other
The White House is more than just a backdrop—it’s a character in its own right. The show delves into areas of the residence rarely seen on screen: the kitchen, the linen room, the staff quarters, and the private nooks and crannies where real lives are lived, and secrets are kept.
Everything from the set design to the costuming works to build a fully realized world that feels both familiar and alien. The residence staff, often invisible in history books, become the heartbeat of the show, offering a perspective that’s as fascinating as it is fresh.
Inspiration Behind the Story
While the plot is fictional, The Residence draws inspiration from the non-fiction book The Residence: Inside the Private World of the White House by Kate Andersen Brower. The book offers a behind-the-scenes look at the people who maintain the presidential home, and while the series isn’t a direct adaptation, it uses the premise to spin a dark and twisty narrative.
Expect fact to blend with fiction as the show explores real traditions, rituals, and pressures of working in the White House—only this time with a body count.
Why You Should Be Excited
The Residence has all the ingredients of a must-watch series: a gripping mystery, a powerhouse lead performance by Uzo Aduba, and the kind of immersive world-building Shondaland excels at. It promises to be smart, addictive, and satisfyingly messy.
For those who loved Scandal‘s high-stakes drama or Knives Out’s layered mysteries, this series feels like the perfect marriage of both worlds. The characters are flawed, the stakes are high, and the twists are designed to keep you guessing right up until the final moment.
The Residence lands on Netflix on March 20, 2025. Make room in your watchlist now.
Key Takeaways
- “The Residence” premieres March 20, 2025, on Netflix with Uzo Aduba leading the investigation of a murder in the White House.
- The whodunit mystery features 157 suspects within the White House’s 132 rooms, creating an intriguing closed-environment mystery.
- Shondaland’s latest production boasts a stellar cast including Giancarlo Esposito and Randall Park under creator Paul William Davies.
Series Overview
“The Residence” brings a murder mystery to the most famous address in America, blending historical setting with fictional intrigue in Shondaland’s latest Netflix production.
Premise and Setting
“The Residence” is set within the White House, transforming the presidential home into the backdrop for an unexpected murder investigation. The story unfolds during a state dinner gone wrong, when a dead body is discovered on the premises.
With 132 rooms and 157 suspects, the whodunnit presents a complex puzzle that needs solving. The narrative focuses on Cordelia Cupp, an eccentric consulting detective played by Uzo Aduba, who must navigate the unique challenges of investigating a crime in this high-security, high-stakes environment.
The show takes creative liberties with its setting while drawing inspiration from Kate Andersen Brower’s non-fiction book “The Residence: Inside the Private World of the White House.” Unlike the source material, the series creates a fictional murder mystery within the presidential mansion.
The Creative Team
“The Residence” comes from Shondaland, the production company founded by acclaimed producer Shonda Rhimes. The creative team brings significant experience in crafting compelling television dramas with complex characters and unexpected twists.
Paul William Davies serves as a key creative force behind the series, working alongside producers from Shondaland. The production features an impressive ensemble cast that includes:
- Uzo Aduba as Cordelia Cupp
- Randall Park
- Giancarlo Esposito
- Ken Marino
- Susan Kelechi Watson
- Kylie Minogue
This diverse and talented cast suggests the series will offer varied character perspectives as the murder investigation unfolds. Shondaland’s trademark approach to ensemble storytelling appears to be in full effect.
Release Information
“The Residence” is scheduled to premiere exclusively on Netflix on March 20, 2025. The series consists of eight episodes that will be released simultaneously worldwide.
Netflix subscribers will have access to the complete season, allowing for both binge-watching and more measured viewing approaches. The global release ensures international audiences can experience the White House murder mystery without regional delays.
The March 2025 premiere positions “The Residence” as one of Netflix’s notable early spring releases for next year. The streaming platform appears to be promoting the series as a significant addition to its mystery drama lineup, with promotional materials already generating interest well ahead of the release date.
Cast and Characters
The Netflix series “The Residence” features an impressive ensemble of talent bringing this White House murder mystery to life. Award-winning actors take on roles ranging from the eccentric detective to the staff and residents of America’s most famous address.
Lead Actress Uzo Aduba
Uzo Aduba stars as Detective Cordelia Cupp, a consulting detective for the Metropolitan Police Department who investigates a murder at the White House. The Emmy-winning actress, best known for her role in “Orange Is The New Black,” brings her considerable talent to this central character.
Aduba’s Detective Cupp is described as eccentric and methodical. Her character drives the investigation into the murder of White House Chief A.B. Wynter during an important state dinner.
Shondaland’s decision to cast Aduba demonstrates their commitment to selecting performers with both dramatic depth and comedic timing, essential qualities for this “screwball whodunnit.”
Supporting Roles
The supporting cast includes several notable actors. Randall Park joins the ensemble, bringing his comedic talents honed in shows like “Fresh Off the Boat” and “WandaVision.”
Acclaimed actor Giancarlo Esposito, known for intense performances in “Breaking Bad” and “The Mandalorian,” also features in the cast, though specific details about his role remain under wraps.
Edwina Findley and Susan Kelechi Watson round out the announced cast members. Watson, familiar to audiences from “This Is Us,” adds her dramatic presence to the White House setting.
The series showcases the “massive amount of people it takes to keep the White House humming,” including characters ranging from florists and butlers to chefs, creating a rich tapestry of potential suspects and witnesses.
Plot and Themes
“The Residence” combines an intricate murder mystery with sharp political commentary, all set against the backdrop of America’s most famous address. The series navigates the complex social dynamics between White House staff while exploring themes of power, privilege, and justice.
Central Mystery
At the heart of “The Residence” lies a shocking murder that occurs during a high-profile State Dinner at the White House. When a body is discovered in the executive mansion, Detective Cordelia Cupp (Uzo Aduba) is called in to solve the case.
The investigation quickly becomes complicated with 157 potential suspects among the White House staff, security personnel, and guests. Each suspect has their own motives, secrets, and potential alibi.
Detective Cupp’s eccentric investigative methods clash with White House protocols as she conducts interviews throughout the mansion’s 132 rooms. The show employs a classic whodunnit structure with red herrings, carefully placed clues, and surprising revelations that keep viewers guessing until the final episode.
Political Intrigue
The murder investigation unfolds against a backdrop of political tensions and power struggles within the White House. The administration faces pressure to solve the case quickly to avoid a public relations disaster.
The series explores the complex hierarchy of the White House staff – from high-ranking officials to service personnel who maintain the historic residence. These power dynamics create additional layers of complexity as Detective Cupp navigates competing interests.
Key plot points involve:
- Classified information that certain characters want to keep hidden
- Political rivalries that provide multiple motives
- The balance between national security and justice
- The administration’s attempts to control the narrative around the murder
Social Commentary
“The Residence” uses its unique setting to examine class divisions through the “upstairs, downstairs” dynamic of White House life. The series contrasts the experiences of powerful political figures with those who serve them.
The show doesn’t shy away from addressing relevant social issues through its characters and storylines. Themes of privilege, accountability, and equality emerge as Detective Cupp’s investigation reveals uncomfortable truths about how different rules often apply to different people.
The screwball comedy elements provide moments of levity while still allowing the series to deliver thoughtful commentary. By setting a murder mystery in America’s seat of power, “The Residence” creates a compelling framework to explore who truly has value and voice in our society.
Production Details
“The Residence” brings together Shondaland’s signature storytelling style with an impressive production team led by executive producer Shonda Rhimes. The murder mystery set in The White House represents a significant investment for Netflix, with attention to period-appropriate details and authentic political atmosphere.
Development Process
“The Residence” was developed as part of Shonda Rhimes’ multi-year deal with Netflix through her production company Shondaland. The series is inspired by Kate Andersen Brower’s non-fiction book “The Residence: Inside the Private World of the White House,” though the murder mystery plot is a fictional creation.
Paul William Davies serves as showrunner and executive producer, bringing his experience from previous Shondaland productions like “Scandal” and “For the People.” The development team spent considerable time researching White House protocols and staff dynamics to create an authentic backdrop for the murder mystery.
The writing team crafted a storyline featuring 157 suspects within the White House’s 132 rooms, establishing a complex whodunnit framework. Davies and Rhimes focused on balancing political intrigue with the personal stories of White House staff members.
Filming Locations
While set in The White House, most of “The Residence” was filmed at purpose-built soundstages where the production team recreated key White House interiors with exacting detail. The impressive set design includes replicas of iconic rooms like the Oval Office, the residence quarters, and staff areas.
Some exterior shots were filmed in Washington D.C. to establish authenticity, though these were limited due to security restrictions around the actual White House. Additional filming took place in Los Angeles at Shondaland’s production facilities.
The production design team worked with historical consultants to ensure the White House representation matched the expected period details. This attention extended to the state dinner scenes, which required elaborate set decoration and hundreds of background actors.
Cinematography
Director of Photography James Hawkinson established a distinctive visual style for “The Residence” that balances the grandeur of The White House setting with the intimate nature of a murder investigation. The cinematography employs contrasting lighting techniques that shift between the public spaces and private corners of the White House.
The series uses steadicam movements to follow Uzo Aduba’s character through the labyrinthine White House corridors, creating a sense of discovery and unease. In state dinner scenes, the camera work becomes more formal and static, emphasizing the contrast between public performance and private intrigue.
Visual techniques include using shallow depth of field during interrogation scenes to heighten tension. The production incorporated subtle color grading differences for flashback sequences, helping viewers navigate the complex timeline of events surrounding the murder.
Promotional Activities
Netflix has rolled out an extensive marketing campaign for “The Residence” ahead of its March 20, 2025 premiere date. The promotional strategy includes captivating trailers, strategic social media content, and widespread media coverage to build anticipation for the Shondaland murder mystery set in the White House.
Trailers and Teasers
Netflix released the first teaser for “The Residence” in early February 2025, introducing viewers to the intriguing premise: “132 rooms. 157 suspects. 1 dead body.” The brief but impactful video showcases Uzo Aduba’s character investigating a murder within the White House.
A full-length trailer followed in late February, offering more details about the whodunnit scenario and highlighting the ensemble cast. The trailer reveals glimpses of Giancarlo Esposito’s performance and showcases the show’s blend of mystery and drama characteristic of Shondaland productions.
Both promotional videos emphasize the unique setting of the White House as the crime scene, creating intrigue around the fictional murder mystery that unfolds within America’s most famous residence. The videos maintain a suspenseful tone while highlighting the show’s production values and star-studded cast.
Social Media Campaigns
Netflix’s social media strategy for “The Residence” includes character introductions across platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok. Short clips featuring cast members and behind-the-scenes footage have generated significant engagement online.
Interactive elements play a key role in the campaign, with polls asking viewers to guess “whodunnit” and virtual tours of White House rooms where the fictional crime might have occurred. These activities encourage audience participation and speculation before the show premieres.
Netflix has partnered with several cast members who are using their personal social media accounts to promote the series. Uzo Aduba has shared exclusive content about her character, while other cast members have participated in Q&A sessions on platforms like Reddit and Instagram Live.
A dedicated hashtag #TheResidenceNetflix has been created to consolidate conversation about the show across platforms, helping to boost visibility and track audience engagement.
Media Coverage
“The Residence” has received substantial pre-release press attention, with interviews featuring creator Shonda Rhimes discussing her inspiration for the series. Several publications have highlighted how the show draws loose inspiration from Kate Andersen Brower’s non-fiction book about White House staff.
Cast interviews have appeared in major entertainment publications, with Uzo Aduba discussing her role as the lead investigator in the murder mystery. Giancarlo Esposito has also participated in press junkets explaining his character’s involvement in the White House drama.
Behind-the-scenes features have explored how the production team recreated White House interiors for filming. These articles provide insight into the show’s attention to detail in depicting the presidential residence.
Early reviews from critics who received advance screeners have generated additional buzz, with many praising the show’s blend of political intrigue and classic murder mystery elements that Shondaland has become known for delivering.
Reception and Anticipation
“The Residence” has generated significant buzz ahead of its March 20, 2025 premiere, with fans and critics alike eager to see how Shondaland’s newest mystery unfolds in the White House setting.
Critical Expectations
Critics have high expectations for “The Residence” based on Shonda Rhimes’ track record of creating compelling television. Many industry analysts predict the series will follow in the footsteps of successful Shondaland productions like “Bridgerton” and “How to Get Away with Murder,” blending intrigue with character-driven storytelling.
TV reviewers have noted Uzo Aduba’s casting as Detective Cordelia Cupp appears particularly promising. Her previous award-winning performances suggest she’ll bring depth to the role of the witty, truth-seeking detective.
The premise—132 rooms, 157 suspects, and one dead body—has critics predicting a complex mystery with multiple layers. Several early reviews praise the show’s apparent balance of humor and suspense, drawing comparisons to classic whodunits with a modern twist.
Audience Speculation
Social media platforms have seen increasing activity related to “The Residence,” with fans already theorizing about potential storylines and murder suspects. The unique White House setting has sparked particular interest, with viewers curious about how the show will blend historical accuracy with fictional drama.
Several fan forums have begun dissecting the brief teaser trailer, analyzing every frame for clues about the murder mystery’s central plot. Audience anticipation appears strongest among viewers who enjoyed previous Shondaland productions.
The show’s March release date has been strategically placed to capture viewers during a traditionally strong streaming period. Netflix subscribers have placed the series high on their watchlists, according to several entertainment tracking services.
Comparisons to Past Works
Industry observers have drawn parallels between “The Residence” and previous Shondaland successes. The murder mystery elements evoke comparisons to “How to Get Away with Murder,” while the prestigious setting recalls the grandeur of “Bridgerton,” albeit in a more contemporary American context.
The series showrunner Paul William Davies previously worked on “Scandal,” another political drama from Shondaland. Critics expect his familiarity with both political storytelling and the Shondaland style will benefit the new series.
The source material—Kate Andersen Brower’s non-fiction book “The Residence: Inside the Private World of the White House”—provides historical grounding for the fictional murder plot. This blend of fact and fiction has been a successful formula for streaming hits in recent years.
Some industry experts suggest the show could establish a new sub-genre of political mystery, distinguishing itself from both traditional political dramas and standard murder mysteries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Netflix viewers eagerly anticipate Shonda Rhimes’ murder mystery “The Residence” set to premiere in March 2025. The series combines a star-studded cast with an intriguing White House setting for what promises to be a captivating whodunnit.
Who are the main cast members in ‘The Residence’ TV series by Shondaland?
“The Residence” features an impressive ensemble cast led by Uzo Aduba as Cordelia Cupp, the detective investigating the White House murder. Giancarlo Esposito takes on a key role alongside Randall Park and Ken Marino.
Susan Kelechi Watson, known for her work in “This Is Us,” also joins the cast. In a surprising addition, international pop star Kylie Minogue appears in the series.
The talented ensemble represents another star-powered production from Shonda Rhimes’ Shondaland, following her successful Netflix collaborations like “Bridgerton” and “Inventing Anna.”
What is the premise of ‘The Residence’ television series on Netflix?
“The Residence” centers on a murder that occurs during a state dinner at the White House. The story follows eccentric but brilliant detective Cordelia Cupp as she navigates the investigation.
Everyone becomes a suspect as the detective works to solve the crime inside one of America’s most secure and prestigious buildings. The series draws inspiration from Kate Andersen Brower’s book “The Residence: Inside the Private World of the White House.”
The show combines Shondaland’s signature dramatic storytelling with mystery elements in this unique setting.
Which White House related show is Uzo Aduba starring in?
Uzo Aduba stars in “The Residence” as Detective Cordelia Cupp. Her character is described as sharp-witted though somewhat eccentric, tasked with solving a murder within the White House.
This marks another significant television role for Aduba, who previously won Emmy Awards for her performances in “Orange Is the New Black” and “Mrs. America.” In “The Residence,” she leads the investigation as everyone in the White House falls under suspicion.
When is the official release of ‘The Residence’ on Netflix?
“The Residence” is scheduled to premiere on March 20, 2025, exclusively on Netflix. The streaming platform announced this release date alongside the first trailer for the series.
This March 2025 release gives viewers something to look forward to from Shonda Rhimes’ production company Shondaland. The series appears positioned as a potential spring hit for Netflix.
Can previews or trailers of ‘The Residence’ be viewed online?
Netflix has released the first trailer for “The Residence,” giving viewers a glimpse of the murder mystery set in the White House. The trailer introduces Uzo Aduba’s detective character and the ensemble cast.
The preview showcases the show’s premise of a state dinner gone wrong and the subsequent investigation. Interested viewers can find the trailer on Netflix’s official social media channels and website.
How can viewers watch the new Shondaland series ‘The Residence’?
“The Residence” will be available exclusively on Netflix starting March 20, 2025. Viewers will need a Netflix subscription to watch the series when it premieres.
All episodes are expected to release simultaneously, following Netflix’s typical release strategy for dramatic series. This allows fans to binge-watch the murder mystery or pace themselves through the investigation.
Netflix subscribers can likely add the show to their watchlist ahead of its release to receive notifications when it becomes available.
