Ali Ahn Says She Channels Her ‘Intimidating’ Character from “The Diplomat” in Real Life: ‘Playing a Badass Is Really Fun’ (Exclusive)

**Ali Ahn Talks Fear and Confidence in Her Badass Role in ‘The Diplomat’**

Ali Ahn, the dynamic actress portraying Eidra Park, the formidable CIA station chief in Netflix’s acclaimed series *The Diplomat*, has shared her journey of embracing the confidence and strength of her character. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Ahn candidly admitted that taking on the role initially filled her with self-doubt regarding her ability to embody such a powerful persona.

Ahn, 45, describes Eidra Park as that “badass” the series requires. The character serves as a vital confidante to U.S. Ambassador Kate Wyler, played by Keri Russell. Reflecting on her performance, Ahn noted her initial fears of not being able to portray Eidra’s commanding presence effectively. “I was worried I would not be able to present her as powerful as she is, because I, Ali, am way more neurotic than she is and way more lacking in confidence,” she confessed.

Her concerns included doubts about whether viewers would find her portrayal convincing. “I was scared that I wouldn’t convincingly be a boss,” she elaborated. However, finding success in presenting the assertive nature of Eidra has allowed Ahn to integrate some of that confidence into her own life. “I try to channel her sometimes. People find her intimidating, so if I can use that to my advantage, I will,” she remarked.

One of the aspects Ahn enjoys most about her role is the contrast between Eidra and Stuart, played by Ato Essandoh. Their unlikely relationship adds depth to the character. “Honestly, I feel like most of my performance is actually his performance,” Ahn revealed. She explained that Eidra’s tough exterior often emerges stronger when juxtaposed with Stuart’s softer nature. “If I didn’t have those relationship scenes with Stuart, I think I would feel really inclined to humanise her,” she continued. “But because the writing on the show is so brilliant, I don’t have to worry about it.”

Ahn noted that the interplay between Eidra and Stuart uniquely reveals her character’s vulnerabilities, crafting a character who feels authentic. “Eidra and Stuart’s relationship is really the whole character. That’s how you see that she actually has a soft, gooey side,” she added.

Working alongside Keri Russell has also had a profound impact on Ahn’s experience on the show. Upon meeting Russell for the first time in London during the show’s inaugural season, Ahn was struck by Russell’s unexpected shyness. “I was surprised at how low-key and shy she was, given how many amazing shows she’s been a part of,” Ahn said. She praised Russell for her leadership qualities, labelling her an ideal collaborator who commands respect without any airs of superiority.

Equally, Ahn spoke fondly of her interactions with Rufus Sewell, who plays Kate’s husband, Hal Wyler. Nervous at first due to Sewell’s history of playing unsavoury characters, Ahn soon found him to be warm and approachable. “I was most surprised at how different his persona was from the characters he plays,” she noted.

Reflecting on her experience over four seasons of *The Diplomat*, Ahn expressed gratitude for the complexity she has found in her role, all thanks to the insightful writing of creator Debora Cahn. “I’ve had to play smart people, but you don’t often get to see them in relationships. Eidra gets to tell some zingers and has some really funny one-liners,” Ahn said, highlighting how enjoyable it is to portray a character that blends strength with humour.

Looking ahead, Ahn’s career aspirations remain ambitious. Just before the release of *The Diplomat*’s fourth season, she starred in *Take Me Home*, a Sundance Film Festival-winning film directed by Liz Sargent. About the film’s themes of family dynamics and caregiving, Ahn stated, “I just want to play messy, complicated characters, in whatever shape that is, whatever genre that is.”

As audiences continue to engage with *The Diplomat*, they can revel in the multifaceted performances of its cast. The series is currently streaming on Netflix, delighting viewers with its intriguing storytelling and complex character relationships.