Episode one of The Diplomat opens with Katherine Wyler packing for her new assignment in Kabul. She is excited about the opportunity to serve her country in a challenging and important role. However, her plans quickly diffuse when she has a meeting at the White House with President Rayburn (Michael McKean). Rayburn tells Wyler that the U.S. needs a new ambassador to the United Kingdom, and he asks her to take the job. Wyler is reluctant at first, but she eventually agrees to serve her country in this new capacity.

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Wyler arrives in London and immediately has overwhelming feelings about the city. She is also struggling to adjust to her new role as ambassador. Wyler has to attend endless social functions and make speeches in front of large crowds. She also has to navigate the complex world of British politics.

In the midst of all of this, Wyler is also dealing with the aftermath of a terrorist attack on a British aircraft carrier. The attack killed dozens of sailors, and it has raised tensions between the U.S. and Iran. Wyler has the task of trying to de-escalate the situation and prevent a war.

Wyler's first few days in London are a disaster. She makes a series of embarrassing gaffes, and she quickly alienates the British government. She is also struggling to balance her personal life with her new job. Her husband, Hal, is a successful businessman who is always in the spotlight. He is not happy about the relegation to the role of a supportive spouse, and he begins to resent Wyler's new job.

Just when things seem like they can't get any worse, Wyler has to go to the White House for an emergency meeting. The President tells her that the U.S. has received intelligence that Iran is planning a second attack on a British vessel. Wyler has the task of delivering a message to the Iranian government, warning them not to carry out the attack.

Wyler travels to Tehran and meets with the Iranian Foreign Minister. She delivers the President's message, and she also appeals to the Foreign Minister's sense of humanity. The Foreign Minister is impressed by Wyler's sincerity, and he agrees to relay the President's message to the Iranian leadership.

The episode ends with Wyler returning to London. She is exhausted and defeated, but she is also relieved that she was able to avert a war. She knows that she has a lot to learn about being an ambassador, but she is determined to succeed in her new role.

Here are some additional thoughts on the episode:

• Keri Russell is excellent as Katherine Wyler. She brings a lot of intelligence, charm, and charisma to the role. She is able to make Wyler both relatable and aspirational.
• The supporting cast is also very good. Michael McKean is particularly good as President Rayburn. He brings a lot of gravitas to the role, and he has great chemistry with Russell.
• The writing is sharp and witty. The dialogue is natural and believable, and the characters are well-developed.
• The direction is stylish and atmospheric. The episode looks great, and it perfectly captures the atmosphere of London.
• The episode is a strong start to the series. It is well-made, well-acted, and well-written. I am excited to see where it goes from here.