Uzo Aduba & Randall Park Dive into Their Detective Roles: An Exclusive Interview

Mystery at the White House: Inside ‘The Residence’ with Uzo Aduba and Randall Park

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Solving Crime in the Executive Mansion

Netflix’s “The Residence,” a Shondaland production, plunges viewers into a captivating murder mystery set against the backdrop of the most famous address in America: The white House. When a death disrupts the tranquility of the executive mansion, it falls to detective Cordelia Cupp, portrayed by Uzo aduba, to unravel the truth. Partnered with Edwin Park,played by Randall Park,Cupp navigates a labyrinth of political intrigue,personal secrets,and a colorful cast of characters,each with their own potential motives. For U.S. audiences, the setting alone provides inherent fascination – a glimpse behind the curtain of power, were even the most secure locations are vulnerable.

The series delves into more than just the central crime; it explores the intricate relationships and hidden agendas of those who inhabit and serve within the White House. Amidst the investigation, Cupp and Park must forge an unlikely partnership, overcoming their contrasting methods and personalities. Cupp’s sharp intellect and unconventional approach clash with Park’s more conventional, by-the-book style, creating both comedic friction and compelling teamwork.

An Unlikely Duo: Cupp and Park

At the heart of “The Residence” is the dynamic between Cordelia Cupp and Edwin Park. Aduba’s Cupp is a brilliant, if eccentric, detective who relies on keen observation and unconventional methods, including her passion for birding, to solve crimes. Park’s character, edwin, brings a sense of earnestness and a desire to learn, even as he faces Cupp’s constant skepticism.

“There aren’t a lot of peopel that Cordelia feels like she needs in the world but if she had to pick one, boy would it be Edwin Park,”

Uzo Aduba tells THR.

This sentiment underscores the evolving relationship between the two characters,hinting at a deep,albeit elaborate,bond that forms as they navigate the complexities of the case.

“Our personal dynamic is so different from the dynamic of the characters,” Parks adds. “It was not challenging, but a little bit surprising to be on set and laughing with Uzo and singing songs, and then to go in front of the camera and have her just berate me (laughs).“

This contrast between the actors’ off-screen camaraderie and their characters’ on-screen interactions highlights the skill and commitment they bring to their roles, making their dynamic all the more believable and entertaining for viewers.

Creating Cordelia Cupp: A Modern Detective

Uzo Aduba discusses her process for developing the character of Cordelia Cupp, emphasizing the character’s intelligence, unique outlook, and connection to her work. The costume design,particularly Cupp’s distinctive jacket,plays a crucial role in shaping her identity.

“Creating the character started frist with the writing. I just could tell that she processed information really, really quickly, becuase she would just have these really long phrases. She seemed like somebody who cycled through her thought patterns very quickly, which then told me a lot about who she is in the room with all these huge figures. She’s the smartest one there. She’s excellent at her job, and loves her job.That really rang true to me and how she uses a lot of her birding skills in her detective.I knew I felt connected to her through the script and through her costume when we went through those fittings and finally found that jacket, from our incredible costume designer Lyn Paolo. It felt reminiscent to past storytelling of detectives, but also had this modern flair. The jacket was her superhero cape. it all came together for me in that moment. I understood she was coming into a world where [how] she looked was going to look completely different from everybody else living in it. But I also felt like that was emblematic of who she is. No matter where she is, she’s never fit in.And that seemed like something she leans into.”

Aduba’s detailed description emphasizes Cupp’s self-assuredness and her comfort in standing out, traits that make her a compelling and relatable protagonist. Her ability to leverage her birding skills in her detective work adds a unique and engaging element to her character, making her methods both effective and intriguing.

“Her costume was unique. I remember being obsessed with her shoes. I have never seen shoes like that,”

RANDALL PARK

Unpacking the Mystery

The series keeps audiences guessing with numerous red herrings and potential suspects. Both Aduba and Park were kept in the dark about the ultimate resolution for a period, adding to their own investment in solving the mystery.

“We did know [how the mystery ends] fairly early.But for the short stretch where we didn’t know, I was curious. I was genuinely curious. I didn’t go into the job knowing. So I was genuinely curious what was going to be the end of the story. But once we did know —”

“I was surprised,”

PARK

“Same!”

ADUBA

The actors’ genuine surprise at the ending suggests a well-crafted plot with unexpected twists, ensuring that viewers will be equally captivated and eager to uncover the truth.

“There’s so many cases in this one case, because every character has their secrets. Cordelia is not just solving the main case, she’s also peeling away these people’s secret motives.”

Future Cases: Where to Next?

Looking ahead, Aduba and Park share their ideas for potential future seasons, envisioning mysteries in exotic locations and unexpected everyday settings.

“Oh, my gosh. All the great cities of the world,”

PARK

“The Seychelles feels like great place. You hear that Netflix? (Laughs) We should be finding our way to a beach,”

ADUBA

“Or just go so out of left field and do one in Bakersfield (laughs).”

PARK

“A restaurant?”

ADUBA

“A diner in Bakersfield.”

PARK

Their contrasting suggestions—from luxurious beach resorts to a humble diner in Bakersfield—highlight the versatility of the series and its potential to explore mysteries in a wide range of settings, appealing to diverse audience preferences.

Behind-the-Scenes Dynamics

The camaraderie and mutual respect between Aduba and Park were evident throughout the interview, enhancing their on-screen chemistry. Their ability to balance the seriousness of the mystery with humor and genuine affection contributes to the show’s overall appeal. The actors created some of their own scenes.

“Randall has such an incredibly generous spirit. Naturally, he’s just such an uplifter.You’re an elevator, Randall Park.”

ADUBA

“Aww.”

PARK

Expertise and Analysis

“The Residence” benefits from the creative powerhouse of Shondaland, known for its strong female leads and intricate storytelling. The series taps into America’s fascination with the inner workings of the White House, blending political drama with the classic whodunit format. The show’s success hinges on its ability to deliver a compelling mystery while exploring the complex relationships and power dynamics within the executive mansion.

Viewers familiar with other Shondaland productions, such as “Scandal” and “How to Get Away with murder,” will recognize the signature elements of sharp writing, complex characters, and unexpected plot twists.”The Residence” aims to deliver a similar level of intrigue and entertainment, with the added appeal of its unique setting.

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How will Cordelia Cupp’s unique skill in birding assist her in solving crimes?

Mystery at the White House: Inside ‘The residence’ with Uzo Aduba and Randall Park

Published: 2025-03-25

By archyde.com

Unveiling ‘The Residence’: A White House Mystery

Archyde News: Welcome, Uzo Aduba and Randall Park, to Archyde. We’re thrilled to have you to discuss Netflix’s highly anticipated series, ‘The Residence’! This Shondaland production promises a captivating murder mystery within the iconic walls of the White House. Uzo,can you tell us a bit about your character,Detective Cordelia Cupp,and what drew you to this role?

Uzo Aduba: Absolutely! Cordelia is brilliant,a bit unconventional,and incredibly observant. She’s sharp, and loves her job. I love that she stands out and isn’t afraid to be herself. The script was amazing, and discovering her through both her words and costume was a true joy. I felt an immediate connection.

Archyde News: The White house setting alone is inherently interesting. Randall, how does your character, Edwin Park, fit into this intricate world, and how does his dynamic with Cupp add to the story?

Randall park: Edwin is, let’s say, more by-the-book. He’s a good guy, and he’s learning.The dynamic with Cordelia is where the fun is. They bring different approaches to the table,which leads to both comedic friction and effective teamwork.

The Dynamic Duo: Cupp & Park and Their Unconventional Approach

Archyde News: It sounds like an engaging partnership! Uzo, we read that Cordelia’s methods include birding skills! Can you elaborate on how that enhances her detective work?

Uzo aduba: (Laughs) Well, yes! Birding is all about observation, patterns, and attention to detail. Just like solving a crime. She’s really good at her job, and loves it. You will see!

Archyde News: The show’s setting in the executive mansion is a unique draw. Randall, many series in the past have explored political intrigue. What do you think sets ‘The Residence’ apart?

Randall park: What makes it different is the mystery angle. There’s a murder, and its in the White House! Plus, Cordelia and Edwin solve the crime, and every character has their secrets. It is going to keep everyone guessing.

Casting Shadows in the White House: Plot Twists and Surprise Endings

Archyde News: The article highlights that you both were kept in the dark about the ending for a period.Uzo, how did that affect your approach to playing Cordelia?

Uzo Aduba: It made it really enjoyable! I knew there’d been something, but not what. So, as I played Cordelia, I genuinely looked forward to the story’s conclusion.

Archyde News: The series promises twists and turns. Randall, speaking of surprises, what’s been the most unexpected element for you on set?

Randall park: Working with Uzo day in and day out! She is hilarious. Our off-screen camaraderie is so very different from our characters’ on-screen interaction,which says a lot about our different characters.

Looking Ahead: Future Cases and Dream Locations

Archyde News: Very fascinating! Looking beyond this season, what are some dream locations or scenarios you’d love to see Cordelia and Edwin tackle in future episodes?

Uzo Aduba: Ooh, the Seychelles! Or any fabulous city. Let us know what our audience thinks!

Randall park: For out of the box thinking, maybe Bakersfield!

Archyde News: (Laughs) It sounds like the possibilities are endless and the possibilities for the series is varied. Speaking of fan engagement, what’s one question you hope viewers will be asking themselves while watching ‘The Residence’?

Uzo Aduba: I hope they will focus on the details. We really get to the heart of all the relationships in the white House. look at those, which ones do you think will be the most notable?

Archyde News: That will keep viewers engaged. Thank you both for sharing your insights with us. We’re certainly excited about ‘the Residence’ and can’t wait to see it.

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