Reunited and It Feels So Right: Bradley Whitford on 'The Handmaid's Tale' and Reconnecting with Allison Janney
The world of television is filled with talented actors, but some stars shine brighter than others. Bradley Whitford, known for his iconic roles in The West Wing and Transparent, has once again captivated audiences with his latest appearance in the critically acclaimed series The Handmaid's Tale. In this dystopian drama, Whitford plays the complex and intriguing character of Commander Joseph Lawrence, a role that has garnered him significant attention and praise. In a recent interview, Whitford shared his thoughts on his experience working on The Handmaid's Tale and his delightful reunion with his former West Wing co-star, Allison Janney.
For those who may be unfamiliar, The Handmaid's Tale is a television adaptation of Margaret Atwood's novel of the same name. The show is set in the Republic of Gilead, a totalitarian and patriarchal society where women have lost all their rights. The story follows the journey of Offred, played by Elisabeth Moss, a Handmaid who is forced into reproductive servitude. Whitford's character, Commander Lawrence, is a high-ranking official in Gilead, who becomes a key player in the resistance against the oppressive regime.
Whitford's portrayal of Commander Lawrence has been widely praised for its nuance and depth. When asked about his approach to the character, Whitford explained that he was drawn to the complexity of Lawrence's personality. "He's a character who is both fascinating and terrifying at the same time," Whitford said. "He's a product of the Gileadian regime, but he also has a certain level of self-awareness and empathy that makes him more human." This multifaceted characterization has allowed Whitford to bring a level of sophistication to the role, making Commander Lawrence one of the most compelling characters in the series.
One of the highlights of Whitford's experience working on The Handmaid's Tale was his reunion with Allison Janney, who guest-starred in several episodes. Janney, who played the role of C.J. Cregg in The West Wing, has been a long-time friend and colleague of Whitford's. The two actors have a deep affection for each other, and their on-screen chemistry is undeniable. When asked about working with Janney again, Whitford couldn't help but smile. "It was like no time had passed at all," he said. "We fell into our old rhythm, and it was like we were back in the West Wing days."
The reunion between Whitford and Janney is a testament to the strong bonds that can form between actors. Their friendship is built on a foundation of mutual respect, trust, and a deep understanding of each other's craft. As Whitford noted, "Allison is one of the most talented and generous actors I've ever had the pleasure of working with. She brings a level of intelligence and wit to every role she takes on, and I feel lucky to have had the chance to share the screen with her again."
In conclusion, Bradley Whitford's appearance in The Handmaid's Tale has been a resounding success, and his reunion with Allison Janney has been a highlight of the series. With his nuanced portrayal of Commander Lawrence and his undeniable chemistry with Janney, Whitford has once again proven himself to be a talented and versatile actor. As fans of The Handmaid's Tale eagerly await the next season, they can take comfort in knowing that Whitford's character will continue to play a significant role in the story. And who knows, maybe we'll even see more of Janney in future episodes, reprising her role as a complex and intriguing character in the world of Gilead.
Watch The Handmaid's Tale on Hulu to see Bradley Whitford's critically acclaimed performance as Commander Lawrence.
