Here’s why The Diplomat season 2 only has six episodes

Here's why The Diplomat season 2 only has six episodes

As a devoted fan of The Diplomat, I must say that I was initially taken aback when I learned that season 2 would only consist of six episodes instead of the usual eight. However, after reading Debora Cahn’s explanation, I can’t help but feel a tinge of sympathy for her. Writing and producing a series is no easy task, and it seems she was simply exhausted from the first season.


In contrast to the first season of “The Diplomat,” which featured a complete run of eight episodes when it premiered, the second season, set to debut on Netflix on Thursday, Oct. 31, will have fewer episodes to enjoy, with just six in total.

After resolving two rounds of writers’ and actors’ strikes, one might assume they were responsible for the change. However, the real story behind the Netflix series cutting down its episode count for season 2 is more complex. While the strikes may have caused a delay in the season’s premiere, they don’t explain the reduction in episodes.

The mastermind behind “The Diplomat”, Debora Cahn (creator, executive producer, and writer), spoke with TV Line before the launch of the much-awaited second season. She shared the real reason for the shorter binge-watch experience, which she attributed to her writing decisions.

The creator chose to cut The Diplomat season 2 episode count

As a dedicated fan, I understand that it might be disappointing to find out that Season 2 of our favorite show has only six episodes. However, let me clarify that Cahn, our talented creator, took the tough decision to reduce the episode count for her own well-being. After pouring her heart and soul into the eight-episode first season, she felt drained and felt she needed more time to deliver another eight top-notch episodes. So, let’s appreciate the quality over quantity!

To provide more information, the television series called “The Diplomat” debuted on Netflix on April 20, 2023. Just a month later, on May 1st, Netflix announced a renewal for a second season. By late June of that year, the second season was already being filmed. However, it was at this stage that the production was affected by strikes.

Here’s creator and showrunner Debora Cahn’s full explanation to TV Line about the choice:

It was my decision. [Netflix] was not happy. They wanted the full eight. I was really tired. It was a time thing. It felt like there wasn’t enough time to turn around eight of them. It was a lot to do in what appeared to be a short period of time. Had we known it was going to be a year and a half before we got back on the air, it would’ve been different.

Debora Cahn, creator

If the disruptions hadn’t taken place, we would probably have had six episodes in Season 2 anyway, but they would have been released earlier. Looking back, it appears that Cahn regrets not writing the extra two episodes during the break following Season 1, given the prolonged gap that ensued.

It’s fortunate that Netflix decided to renew “The Diplomat” for season 3 ahead of the release of season 2, allowing Cahn and the writing team ample time to prepare and write the season before filming began. As the creator revealed to TV Line, season 3 will consist of eight episodes once more.

Coincidentally, production for The Diplomat season 3 has commenced, with filming taking place both in New York City and London. It’s hard to predict what new adventures await Kate in the upcoming season, but for now, we’ll have to wait until October 31st to witness the thrilling six episodes of season 2.

Watch The Diplomat only on Netflix.

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2024-10-28 23:33