Political drama series, according to American actor Geoffrey Arend, help people understand the political process better by dramatising real life events. Madam Secretary, produced by Lori McCreary and Morgan Freeman, is one of those rare political shows that projects politics in a positive light.
“So much of America I don’t think understands the political process as well as they should and that’s the fault of our education system. Hopefully, after watching the show, people continue their education,” says Geoffrey, in a telephonic conversation from the U.S.
Madam Secretary, which has been renewed for a third season, follows the journey of Dr. Elizabeth McCord (played by Tea Leoni), who is appointed as the American Secretary of State. Dr. McCord, a college professor and a former CIA analyst, navigates international diplomacy, office politics and protocol, and grapples with world issues.
“People usually have a negative feeling about politics. Madam Secretary strives to show how positive the process can be, if you have someone with conviction and intelligence taking part in it. We do not focus on the dark side; we show what’s wrong with the conflicts in the world,” he says.
Geoffrey plays Matt Mahoney, Dr. McCord’s speechwriter, whom he describes as a smart guy with a healthy amount of ego. “He is not afraid to let people know he’s the smartest guy in the room. He is not a treat to be with, but his heart is in the right place. He not only wants to make sure he’s doing a good job, and doing good in his job. He’s a hopeful character, and in some ways he’s a little naive. But he’s a lot of fun to play because he always has something funny to say.”
This is Geoffrey’s latest role on television following his performance as Dr. Ethan Gross, a lead character in the medical drama Body of Proof. He has also appeared in several films including the iconic 500 Days of Summer, Loveless in Los Angeles, The Ringer and The Angry Birds Movie. This is the first time that he shares his own genetic background, of a Pakistani-American, with his character.
“Matt, as a character, truly respects Dr. McCord and sees her as a leader. When you’re in an environment like Washington where everything moves at the speed of light and there are so many people trying to get their own agendas done, it is impossible not to follow somebody like her, who exudes intelligence and spirit.”
Though it may seem like the show has obvious references to Hillary Clinton, the most recent woman Secretary of State in the U.S., Geoffrey says the similarities between both women end with the blond hair and the aura of power.
“I know a lot of politicians want to portray our show as a reason why Hillary will be elected (I think she will be elected, Trump just doesn’t seem like the right thing), but I don’t see any similarity. I am all for the portrayal of strong women in politics on TV and in real life. I think the show’s more a reflection of our times and of our society waking up and realising that it’s not just a man’s world after all.”
Seasons one and two of Madam Secretary will air on AXN from June 30 onwards.
