Rufus Sewell

Rufus Sewell is an actor best known in recent coverage for his starring role in the political thriller television series The Diplomat. On the series, created by Debora Cahn, he portrays Hal Wyler, a former diplomat whose intricate political operations drive much of the drama alongside co-star Keri Russell.

The character introduced by Sewell is a disgraced former ambassador who initially operates behind the scenes to support his wife, US Ambassador Kate Wyler. His primary goal was to maneuver strategic levers in order to position Kate for the vice presidency. The friction and fast-paced political chess between the couple form the core dynamic of the series across multiple seasons.

By the end of the third season, the trajectory shifted when Hal separated from Kate and usurped her position to capture the vice presidency himself. Despite the character's cutthroat moves and sneaky tactics in the finale, Sewell has defended Hal, refusing to label him as evil or a villain as the series heads into its fourth season.